# Acne and Acne Marks: Causes, Ingredients and Care Acne includes clogged pores and inflamed spots. Flat red or brown marks left after acne are different from active acne and from indented or raised scars. ## In simple terms Acne develops when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead cells, with inflammation and bacteria contributing to some lesions. Blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, nodules and cysts are not identical. After inflammation settles, flat brown marks can remain; these marks are different from indented or raised scars. ## What it can and cannot do A gentle routine and ingredients such as salicylic acid can help mild clogged-pore acne, while deeper or inflammatory acne often needs other treatments. Cosmetic brightening products may improve post-acne marks but do not treat active lesions or remodel deep scars. Picking raises the risk of longer-lasting marks and scars. ## How it fits into a routine Cleanse gently up to twice daily and after sweating, use non-comedogenic moisturiser and sunscreen, and start one acne active at a time. Apply treatment to the acne-prone area rather than only individual spots when the label directs. Give a tolerated routine several weeks; changing products too quickly makes irritation and progress difficult to judge. ## WishCare products - [2% Salicylic Acid Face Wash](https://www.mywishcare.com/products/salicylic-acid-face-wash) - [Advanced Dark Spot Correcting TXA Shot](https://www.mywishcare.com/products/serum-for-reducing-pigmentation-on-face) - [Niacinamide Oil Balance Fluid Sunscreen](https://www.mywishcare.com/products/niacinamide-oil-balance-fluid-spf-50-sunscreen) ## Safety and when to get help Deep, painful, widespread or scarring acne should be treated by a dermatologist. Seek help if over-the-counter care is not improving it or if acne affects wellbeing. Pregnancy changes which retinoids and medicines are appropriate. Stop harsh scrubs and any product causing swelling, blistering or severe burning. ## Frequently asked questions ### Are acne marks scars? Flat red or brown marks are colour changes; pitted or raised scars are structural changes and need different treatment. ### Does oily skin need moisturiser? Yes. A light, non-comedogenic moisturiser can support the barrier and improve tolerance of drying acne treatments. ### Should pimples be popped? No. Squeezing increases inflammation and the chance of persistent marks, infection and scarring. ## Related terms - [Salicylic Acid](/glossary/salicylic-acid-bha) - [Niacinamide](/glossary/niacinamide) - [Zinc PCA](/glossary/zinc-pca) - [Pigmentation](/glossary/pigmentation) ## References - [American Academy of Dermatology: acne diagnosis and treatment](https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/acne/derm-treat/treat) - [American Academy of Dermatology: acne overview](https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/acne/really-acne/overview) ## Navigation - [Browse glossary](https://ai.mywishcare.com/glossary) ## Related glossary guides ### Dandruff: Causes, Ingredients and Scalp Care Query: Dandruff Dandruff is a recurring scalp condition that causes visible flakes and may include itching or redness. 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