Acne Scarring

What is Acne Scarring?

Acne scarring refers to permanent changes in skin texture or pigmentation left behind after severe or prolonged acne. Not all acne leaves scars, but deeper inflammatory lesions (nodules and cysts) are most likely to cause them.

What are the Causes of Acne scarring?

Inflammatory acne (nodules, cysts, pustules) damages skin tissue.
Delayed or no treatment of moderate-to-severe acne.
Picking, squeezing, or scratching spots worsens skin injury.
Genetics (some people are more prone to scarring).
Abnormal wound healing → too much or too little collagen production.

Symptoms (Types of Acne Scars)

1. Atrophic (depressed) scars – most common:

Ice pick scars → deep, narrow pits.
Boxcar scars → round/oval depressions with sharp edges.
Rolling scars → broad, wavy indentations.

2. Hypertrophic & keloid scars – raised, thick scars (more common on chest, back, shoulders).

3. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) – dark marks left after acne heals (not true scars, but often mistaken for them).

What are the best Treatments for Acne Scarring?

Treatments for acne scarring depend on the type of scar and the severity. In many cases a combination of treatments is best.

1. Topical Treatments

Retinoids (tretinoin, adapalene) → boost cell turnover, fade pigmentation.
Hydroquinone, azelaic acid, vitamin C → lighten dark marks.
Silicone gels/sheets → help flatten raised scars.

Shop our recommended range of Acne scarring skincare products

2. Procedural Treatments (Dermatologist/Clinic)

Chemical peels (medium to deep) → improve texture & pigmentation.
Micro-needling / Dermaroller → stimulates collagen repair.
Micro-needling with or without ACP → for deeper scars.
Laser resurfacing (fractional CO₂, erbium) → smooths uneven skin.
Subcision → releases tethered scars.
Dermal fillers → lift depressed scars temporarily.
Steroid injections → flatten raised or keloid scars.
Surgical excision or punch techniques → remove deep ice-pick scars.

To find out the best in-clinic treatment option for your scarring, please book a consultation with one of our doctors or dermatologists

3. At-home Support

Daily SPF 30+ sunscreen → prevents scars from darkening.
Gentle skincare to avoid irritation.

How to prevent acne scarring?

Treat acne early and effectively (don’t wait for scarring).
Avoid picking or squeezing spots.
Stick to dermatologist-prescribed acne regimens.
Use sun protection daily to prevent pigmentation worsening.
Seek professional help if acne is severe or cystic.

FAQs

Q1. Can acne scars go away on their own?
Shallow pigmentation may fade with time, but true textured scars rarely disappear without treatment.

Q2. What’s the best treatment for acne scars?
It depends:

Ice pick scars → TCA CROSS or punch excision.
Rolling scars → subcision + microneedling/laser.
Pigmentation → peels, topical brightening creams, or laser.

Q3. How long does treatment take?
Improvement usually requires multiple sessions over months (e.g., 3–6+ clinic treatments).

Q4. Are acne scars permanent?
They can be permanent, but modern treatments can greatly reduce visibility.

Q5. Can home remedies (like lemon juice, aloe vera) remove scars?
No, they may soothe skin but cannot repair scar tissue. Professional treatment is needed for significant improvement.

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Take a look at clinic founder, Holly Mason’s, recently published book about proven secrets in eliminating acne and scarring.

Free Download: Acne Top Tips

Acne can be controlled but not cured. Seeking and following professional advice and having the right treatment plan are key to managing and keeping it under control.