Acne Scars: How to Get Rid of Them and What’s the Best Treatment

For adults with a history of cystic acne, the remaining scars can be a significant concern.

Many patients report that acne scars affect their self-esteem and that some of them are so deep or wide that makeup cannot adequately conceal them.

In these cases, patients can schedule an evaluation by a board-certified dermatologist and an in-office procedure to correct acne scars.

Treatment options include microdermabrasion, chemical peels, microneedling, laser resurfacing, and dermal fillers.

Acne Scars vs. Hyperpigmentation

After a pimple heals, a patient may be left with a depression or a slightly raised and discolored area of skin known as hyperpigmentation.

While these depressions are true acne scars, hyperpigmentation is not and will heal on its own over a period of several months.

Types of Acne Scars

Cystic acne which occurs in the deeper layers of skin often results in ice pick, boxcar, or rolling acne scars.

Ice pick scars appear as though a sharp object has been used to puncture the skin. In comparison, boxcar scars look like a rectangular indentation. Rolling acne scars present as small waves in the skin.

Ice pick scars respond the best to treatment, while rolling scars are the most difficult to improve.

Microdermabrasion and Chemical Peels

Microdermabrasion and chemical peels can exfoliate the skin to remove dead skin cells and improve its tone and texture. Most patients require a series of 3-6 treatments spaced every two to four weeks.

Microneedling

Microneedling can target acne scars by puncturing the skin with very thin surgical-grade needles to stimulate collagen growth. Patients typically require 3 or more sessions performed a month apart.

Laser Resurfacing

Laser resurfacing is considered by many aesthetic experts to be the gold standard for softening and reducing acne scars. Both ablative and non-ablative lasers may be used to initiate a wound healing effect that results in remodeling of the damaged skin.

Non-ablative resurfacing, such as Fraxel, typically requires 3-5 monthly treatments and 2-3 days of downtime.

An ablative laser, such as a CO2 or an Erbium YAG, can provide excellent results in 1 or 2 treatments. However, patients can expect a longer and more significant period of recovery.

Dermal Fillers

Plastic surgeons and dermatologists may also recommend injecting a long-lasting filler such a Bellafill into deep acne scars.

The added volume fills in the depression and creates a smoother appearance to the skin.

To learn more about treatments for acne and acne scars, please call our office today to schedule an appointment.

Dr. Eliot Battle

CEO & Founder at Cultura Dermatology & Plastic Surgery

Dr. Eliot Battle, CEO of Cultura Dermatology, is a global leader in cosmetic dermatology and laser innovation. His Harvard research pioneered “color-blind” lasers, making treatments safe for all skin tones. A sought-after expert featured in TIME, Oprah, and The New York Times, he continues to advance inclusive, cutting-edge dermatological care.