How to Clear Up Brown or Purple Spots From Acne

Some acne sufferers have more than just acne to contend with -- they also have to deal with residual brown or purple spots that remain after blemishes clear. These ugly marks are not scars, though they can take up to a year to disappear, according to TeensHealth. Follow simple skin care techniques to help reduce the occurrence of such marks and help speed the healing of existing spots.

A teenager washing her face looking in a mirror. (Image: Vstock LLC/VStock/Getty Images)

Step 1

Use a mild cleanser and your fingertips to wash your face twice daily. Using a mesh sponge, washcloth or abrasive cleansing scrub can increase skin irritation and hamper healing of brown or purple acne spots.

Step 2

Apply a spot treatment that contains salicylic acid, which helps increase cell turnover, allowing the spotted layers of the skin to shed more rapidly. A glycolic acid, retinol or vitamin C-based product may also be used to stimulate collagen, a protein that plumps the skin, according to AcneNet.

Step 3

Maintain a healthy diet. Eating vitamin-rich foods and drinking plenty of water helps keep skin healthy, which may increase your body's ability to heal brown and purple spots naturally.

Step 4

Purchase silicone bandages at your pharmacy and place one over the affected skin. If needed, trim the product to fit the area. Wear the bandages at night for 12 weeks or as long as needed.

Step 5

Consult a dermatologist for help if acne cannot be managed at home and brown or purple spots continue to form. Advanced techniques such as chemical peels or laser skin resurfacing may be an option.

Warning

Avoid picking and squeezing blemishes, which can cause damage to the skin and produce acne spots.