Acne Scarring

What Is Acne Scarring?

Acne scarring occurs when inflammation from acne damages the deeper layers of the skin. As the skin heals, it may produce too little or too much collagen, leading to changes in texture, depth, or color. Acne scars are permanent changes in the skin structure—but with the right treatments, they can be significantly improved.

Acne scarring can affect the face, chest, back, and shoulders and may impact confidence long after acne itself is under control.

Why Acne Scars Form

Not everyone who gets acne will develop scars. Scarring is more likely when acne is deep, inflamed, prolonged, or untreated.

1. Inflammation and Tissue Damage

Severe acne (such as nodules or cysts) creates inflammation deep within the skin. This damages collagen and elastin, the structural support of healthy skin.

2. Abnormal Healing Response

As acne heals, the body attempts to repair the damage:

Too little collagen → depressed scars
Too much collagen → raised scars

The final result depends on genetics, skin type, and how the inflammation was managed.

3. Delayed or Inadequate Treatment

The longer acne remains active, the greater the risk of permanent scarring. Picking or squeezing lesions significantly increases this risk.

4. Skin Tone and Pigment Response

Darker skin tones are more prone to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark marks), which can persist even after acne heals. While not a true scar, these marks are often mistaken for scarring and require targeted treatment.

Types of Acne Scars

Understanding scar type helps guide treatment:

Ice Pick Scars – narrow, deep indentations
Boxcar Scars – wider, defined depressions
Rolling Scars – wave-like texture from tethered skin
Hypertrophic or Keloid Scars – raised, thick scars (more common on chest and back)
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) – flat dark spots left after acne heals

Most patients have a combination of scar types, which is why combination therapy is often needed.

How Acne Scarring Is Treated

There is no single “best” treatment for acne scars. The most effective results come from customized, layered treatment plans.

In-Office Procedures

These treatments stimulate collagen remodeling and improve skin texture:

Microneedling – creates controlled micro-injuries to trigger collagen production
RF Microneedling – combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy for deeper remodeling
Laser Resurfacing – improves texture, tone, and scar depth
Subcision – releases scar tissue tethered beneath the skin
Chemical Peels – improve surface texture and discoloration
Injectables – fillers or biostimulatory agents to restore volume in select scars

Most patients require a series of treatments spaced over several months.

Topical & Medical Therapies

Prescription retinoids to support collagen turnover
Pigment-correcting agents for dark marks
Medical-grade skincare to strengthen the skin barrier

Lifestyle & Functional Medicine Support

Healthy skin healing depends on more than procedures alone.

Nutrition for Collagen Support

Adequate protein intake supports tissue repair
Vitamin C, zinc, and antioxidants aid collagen formation
Limit ultra-processed foods that promote inflammation

Hormonal & Inflammatory Balance

Ongoing acne must be controlled to prevent new scars
Address hormonal acne patterns when present
Manage chronic inflammation through stress reduction and sleep

Sun Protection (Critical)

UV exposure worsens scar appearance and pigmentation
Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen is essential for all skin tones

What to Expect From Treatment

Improvement is gradual, not instant
Most patients see meaningful changes over 3–6 months
Scars can be softened, blended, and made less noticeable—though complete erasure is not realistic

Early intervention leads to better outcomes.

Our Approach

We take a strategic, personalized approach to acne scarring—combining advanced procedures, medical skincare, and lifestyle guidance. Treatment plans are tailored to your scar type, skin tone, and long-term goals.

Smoother, healthier-looking skin is achievable with the right plan and expert care.