Information on acne scar treatment
Acne scars are lasting tissue changes after inflammatory acne. Depressed (atrophic) scars are classed as ice-pick, boxcar and rolling scars; raised (hypertrophic or keloid) scars need a different approach. Scar type, depth and skin type determine the choice of treatment. Active acne must be controlled first.
Treatment options
Fractional lasers (Er:YAG or CO2), radiofrequency microneedling (gold needle) and microneedling aim to support new collagen formation by creating controlled micro-injury. Meta-analyses report improvement in scar appearance with these methods; adding PRP has shown additional benefit in some studies. Deep narrow scars and rolling scars may need other techniques such as fillers or subcision. Most people need several sessions and a combined plan.
Expectations
The aim is to reduce the appearance of scars; complete removal is not expected. Collagen remodelling develops over weeks and months; results are not judged immediately after each session.
Treatment details
Duration: About 30–60 minutes depending on the method.
Who it is for: Adults with atrophic acne scars whose active acne has been brought under control.
Number of sessions: Usually 3–6 sessions, 4–6 weeks apart. The final plan is set by the physician after the examination.
Possible risks
Redness, swelling, crusting and tenderness are common. Less commonly, infection, cold-sore reactivation, post-inflammatory darkening, prolonged redness and rarely scarring may occur. The risk of pigment change is higher in darker skin.
Who may not be suitable?
Active acne or infection, recent isotretinoin use, pregnancy, uncontrolled skin disease and a tendency to scar are assessed separately.
Aftercare
In the first days, skin care should follow the physician's advice, sun protection is essential and crusts should not be picked.
Frequently asked questions
Will acne scars disappear completely?
No. Their appearance can be reduced; complete removal cannot be guaranteed.
How many sessions are needed?
It depends on scar type, depth and method; the plan is set at the examination.
Which method is best?
No single method suits every scar. The choice depends on scar type, skin type and expected recovery time.
This text is intended for general information and is not personalized diagnostic or treatment advice. Eligibility is determined after a medical history and examination. Outcomes may vary from person to person; a specific result cannot be guaranteed.
References
- Liu F, et al. Efficacy and safety of CO2 fractional laser versus Er:YAG fractional laser in the treatment of atrophic acne scar: A meta-analysis and systematic review. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2024. PMID: 38733085.
- Li J, et al. Meta-analysis of fractional radiofrequency treatment for acne and/or acne scars. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2022. PMID: 36062400.
- Long T, et al. Platelet-rich plasma in noninvasive procedures for atrophic acne scars: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2020. PMID: 32061047.
