How to Prevent Acne Scars: What to Do During a Breakout

An acne breakout can feel urgent, but the choices you make in the moment often determine whether you’re left with scars or lingering dark marks later. The good news: scar prevention is mostly about reducing inflammation, protecting the skin barrier, and avoiding trauma while your skin heals.

At Chevy Chase Dermatology, the team blends medical and cosmetic dermatology to support healthier healing and better overall outcomes, an important advantage when you’re trying to calm an active breakout and reduce the risk of lasting acne scars. Guided by Dr. Sommerville’s meticulous, detail-focused approach and commitment to safety, patients receive thoughtful care that carefully weighs risks and benefits to help protect the skin’s integrity during treatment.

1. Don’t pick, pop, or “extract” at home

Squeezing a pimple can push inflammation deeper and tear the surrounding tissue. That’s how a temporary blemish turns into a long-term scar. If a whitehead is driving you crazy, use a hydrocolloid pimple patch instead to absorb fluid, shield the spot from touching, and support healing.

2. Treat early, gently

Start with one proven acne active and use it consistently:

• Benzoyl peroxide (2.5-5%) helps reduce acne-causing bacteria and inflammation.
• Salicylic acid (0.5-2%) clears clogged pores.
• Adapalene (0.1%) helps prevent new breakouts and smooth uneven texture over time.

Pick one active to avoid irritation, and apply a thin layer to acne-prone areas (not just individual spots). If your skin becomes tight, flaky, or stings, scale back to every other night.

3. Moisturize like it’s part of the treatment

Dry, irritated skin is more likely to be inflamed and heal poorly. Use a fragrance-free moisturizer with ceramides or hyaluronic acid to keep your barrier strong. Yes, even if you’re oily.

4. Protect with sunscreen every day

Sun exposure can darken post-acne marks and prolong their appearance. Choose a non-comedogenic, broad-spectrum SPF 30+ and reapply if you’re outdoors.

5. Calm inflammation and speed recovery

A few add-ons can help during an active breakout:

• Ice for one to two minutes at a time to reduce swelling
• Niacinamide to support the barrier and reduce redness
• Avoid harsh scrubs and heavy fragranced products that inflame skin

6. Know when to see a pro

If you get deep, painful cysts, or you’re scarring easily, early professional treatment matters. Dermatology options like prescription retinoids, steroid injections for cysts, or in-office extractions can prevent long-term damage.

Keep Skin Clear and Healthy with the Right Acne Care in Chevy Chase, MD

Preventing acne scars isn’t about doing more; it’s about doing the right things consistently while your skin heals. Call us today at 301-951-7905 to schedule an appointment.

Category: Acne Treatments

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