Acne scars treatment can vary quite a bit depending on the type and depth of scarring, as well as how your skin responds to different procedures.
Acne itself can leave behind different forms of scarring – some shallow and textural, others more indented or discoloured – and not every treatment targets these in the same way.
Understanding how each treatment works and what it’s designed to do can help you make sense of which options are most effective. In this blog, we’ll explore the most common approaches and what makes each suitable for different scar types.
What determines the best approach for acne scars?
Before looking at specific treatments, it helps to understand what actually influences their effectiveness.
Acne scars are typically formed when inflammation from acne disrupts the skin’s natural healing process, leading to either an excess or loss of collagen. The result can be atrophic scars (such as boxcar, rolling, or ice-pick scars) or, less commonly, hypertrophic scars that sit raised above the surface.
The most effective acne scars treatment will depend on how deep the scar tissue runs and how your skin heals. For example, superficial textural changes may respond well to resurfacing methods, while deep or tethered scars often need more targeted approaches to release the scar tissue or rebuild collagen deeper in the skin. The treatment plan is rarely one-size-fits-all – some patients may benefit from combining multiple techniques for a more even result.
How does laser resurfacing work for acne scars?
Laser resurfacing is one of the most widely used methods for acne scars. It works by directing focused light energy into the skin to remove or remodel the damaged layers and stimulate collagen production. There are two main categories of laser treatment: ablative and non-ablative.
Ablative lasers, such as CO₂ and Er:YAG, physically remove the outer layer of skin while heating the underlying tissue. This controlled damage encourages new collagen formation as the skin heals. Non-ablative lasers, on the other hand, don’t remove the top layer but instead heat the deeper tissue to promote gradual regeneration.
While ablative lasers tend to give more noticeable improvement in deeper scars, they also require a longer recovery period and more post-treatment care. Non-ablative options are less invasive but usually need multiple sessions. The suitability of each depends on your skin type, and the type of scars you have.
What is microneedling and how does it help?
Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, involves using a device with fine needles that create small, controlled punctures in the skin’s surface. This process triggers the body’s healing response, leading to the production of new collagen and elastin.
Microneedling can be particularly helpful for rolling or shallow boxcar scars, as it gradually improves texture and firmness over time. The downtime is relatively short compared to laser resurfacing, and it can also be used on a wider range of skin tones without the same risk of pigment changes.
Some practitioners combine microneedling with radiofrequency energy to deliver heat deeper into the dermis, which can further boost collagen remodelling. This combination can make the treatment more effective for deeper acne scars that extend beyond the superficial layer of skin.
Can chemical peels treat acne scars?
Chemical peels work by applying a chemical solution that exfoliates the outer layers of skin, prompting new cell growth and collagen production. There are varying strengths of peels – superficial, medium, and deep – depending on the concentration of the active ingredients and how deeply they penetrate the skin.
For acne scars, medium-depth peels are often used, as they can target pigmentation and mild textural changes.
Chemical peels can be very effective for addressing the overall texture and tone of the skin, though deeper scars may require more intensive treatments or a series of sessions to see results.
Can acne scars treatment involve using multiple techniques?
In many cases, the most effective acne scars treatment isn’t just one procedure but a combination of several.
For example, a patient might combine microneedling treatments with laser, in a carefully mapped-out treatment plan. Combination treatment plans are often spaced over multiple months to allow the skin to heal between sessions.
The timing and order of each procedure will depend on your individual scarring pattern, how your skin responds, and what your clinician considers to be suitable.
What should you expect after acne scar treatments?
The recovery process varies, depending on the type of treatment performed. Laser resurfacing generally requires a few weeks for the skin to heal fully, while microneedling and chemical peels tend to involve shorter recovery periods. Some treatments can cause temporary redness, swelling, or flaking as the skin renews itself.
It’s important that you follow all aftercare instructions provided by your clinician to avoid complications and support healing. Sun protection is particularly important after any resurfacing treatment, as the new skin will be more sensitive to UV exposure. Results will gradually appear as collagen rebuilds and the skin continues to regenerate, which can take weeks to months, depending on the procedure.
Infinity Skin Clinic: Personalised Acne Scars Treatment in Sydney & North Shore (Mosman)
If you want to treat acne scars, it’s important to have a consultation so that your skin can be analysed in detail. Acne scars need to be approached with an appropriate treatment method, which can depend on factors like your skin type, any skin conditions and the depth of the scarring.
A consultation with our clinicians at Infinity Skin Clinic will allow us to discuss your needs and goals. Once we have decided on an appropriate treatment method, we can create a treatment plan that you’re happy with, designed to work towards the results you want.
Please get in touch with our team to book your consultation at our Sydney (Mosman) or North Shore (Surry Hills) locations.
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