Acne Scarring
What is acne scarring?
Acne scarring occurs when deep or inflamed pimples damage the skin’s surface, leaving behind visible marks. While acne itself may heal, the scars can persist long after breakouts have cleared. These scars can range from small, shallow changes in colour and texture to larger, more pronounced indentations or raised areas.
The severity of acne scarring depends on the type and depth of the original breakouts and how your skin heals over time. While these scars can be long-lasting and often don’t improve on their own, the good news is that they can be significantly reduced with the right professional treatment.
Understanding your scars
Icepick Scars
Icepick scars are narrow, deep scars that extend into the lower layers of the skin, making them some of the most difficult acne scars to treat. At our clinic, we use a combination of specialised treatments to achieve noticeable improvements.
Approach
TCA CROSS — a targeted chemical reconstruction method that uses trichloroacetic acid to gently break down underlying scar tissue and stimulate new collagen production deep within the scar. This technique helps “fill in” the scar over time, improving texture and reducing depth.
CO₂ Laser Resurfacing — for larger and more extensive icepick scars, CO₂ resurfacing laser can be used to smooth the skin’s surface and support deeper skin renewal.
Rolling Scars
Rolling scars are broad depressions with sloping edges that give the skin a wavy, uneven appearance. They’re caused by fibrous bands of tissue pulling the skin down from below and are often the result of long-term, untreated inflammatory acne.
Approach
CO₂ Laser Resurfacing – Recommended to refine skin texture and stimulate collagen production. The goal is to release tension beneath the scar and restore a more even skin surface.
Subcision – A minor surgical procedure that breaks the fibrous bands pulling the skin down and creating a wavy appearance. This allows the skin to lift and smooth out over time.
CO₂ laser resurfacing and subcision are often performed in combination to achieve optimal results.
Boxcar Scars
Boxcar scars are broad, shallow depressions with well-defined edges. They often form after severe acne and are particularly noticeable under certain lighting due to uneven skin texture.
Approach
Subcision – This technique involves using a fine needle to release the fibrous bands that tether the scar to deeper layers of the skin. This helps lift the scar and create a smoother surface.
Punch Excision – For deep and well-defined scars, punch excision can be used to surgically remove the scar tissue. The area is then closed with a small stitch or allowed to heal naturally.
CO₂ Laser Resurfacing – A fractional or fully ablative CO₂ laser is used to precisely remove damaged skin layers and stimulate collagen production. This helps soften sharp scar edges, improve skin texture, and promote long-term skin renewal.
To achieve the best results, our specialists may combine these treatment options to gently smooth scar edges and enhance overall skin texture.
Hypertrophic scars
Hypertrophic scars are raised, thickened scars that form when the body produces too much collagen during the healing process. Unlike other acne scars, these don’t sink into the skin — instead, they appear as firm, elevated bumps that may be red or flesh-toned. They’re more likely to develop after severe or inflamed acne, particularly on the chest, back, jawline, or shoulders.
Approach
Intra-lesional injections – Corticosteroids are injected directly into the scar to reduce inflammation and collagen production. Over a series of treatments, this helps flatten the scar and soften its texture. For particularly stubborn scars, we may also combine intra-lesional injections with DermaV vascular laser therapy to help speed up resolution.
Surgical revision – In selected cases, especially where the scar is particularly thick or resistant to injections, surgical excision may be performed to remove the scar tissue. This is usually followed by preventative treatments—such as steroid injections to minimise the risk of recurrence.
Icepick Scars
Icepick scars are narrow, deep scars that extend into the lower layers of the skin, making them some of the most difficult acne scars to treat. At our clinic, we use a combination of specialised treatments to achieve noticeable improvements.
Approach
TCA CROSS — a targeted chemical reconstruction method that uses trichloroacetic acid to gently break down underlying scar tissue and stimulate new collagen production deep within the scar. This technique helps “fill in” the scar over time, improving texture and reducing depth.
CO₂ Laser Resurfacing — for larger and more extensive icepick scars, CO₂ resurfacing laser can be used to smooth the skin’s surface and support deeper skin renewal.
Rolling Scars
Rolling scars are broad depressions with sloping edges that give the skin a wavy, uneven appearance. They’re caused by fibrous bands of tissue pulling the skin down from below and are often the result of long-term, untreated inflammatory acne.
Approach
CO₂ Laser Resurfacing – Recommended to refine skin texture and stimulate collagen production. The goal is to release tension beneath the scar and restore a more even skin surface.
Subcision – A minor surgical procedure that breaks the fibrous bands pulling the skin down and creating a wavy appearance. This allows the skin to lift and smooth out over time.
CO₂ laser resurfacing and subcision are often performed in combination to achieve optimal results.
Boxcar Scars
Boxcar scars are broad, shallow depressions with well-defined edges. They often form after severe acne and are particularly noticeable under certain lighting due to uneven skin texture.
Approach
Subcision – This technique involves using a fine needle to release the fibrous bands that tether the scar to deeper layers of the skin. This helps lift the scar and create a smoother surface.
Punch Excision – For deep and well-defined scars, punch excision can be used to surgically remove the scar tissue. The area is then closed with a small stitch or allowed to heal naturally.
CO₂ Laser Resurfacing – A fractional or fully ablative CO₂ laser is used to precisely remove damaged skin layers and stimulate collagen production. This helps soften sharp scar edges, improve skin texture, and promote long-term skin renewal.
To achieve the best results, our specialists may combine these treatment options to gently smooth scar edges and enhance overall skin texture.
Hypertrophic scars
Hypertrophic scars are raised, thickened scars that form when the body produces too much collagen during the healing process. Unlike other acne scars, these don’t sink into the skin — instead, they appear as firm, elevated bumps that may be red or flesh-toned. They’re more likely to develop after severe or inflamed acne, particularly on the chest, back, jawline, or shoulders.
Approach
Intra-lesional injections – Corticosteroids are injected directly into the scar to reduce inflammation and collagen production. Over a series of treatments, this helps flatten the scar and soften its texture. For particularly stubborn scars, we may also combine intra-lesional injections with DermaV vascular laser therapy to help speed up resolution.
Surgical revision – In selected cases, especially where the scar is particularly thick or resistant to injections, surgical excision may be performed to remove the scar tissue. This is usually followed by preventative treatments—such as steroid injections to minimise the risk of recurrence.
Different types of colours
Red Scars
Redness left behind after acne — known as post-inflammatory erythema — is a common concern we treat. It can be stubborn and affect confidence long after breakouts have cleared.
Approach
Vascular Laser – Our specialists use the DermaV vascular laser, a gentle treatment that works by dissolving the microscopic vessels contributing to redness. This helps calm the skin and restore a more even tone. It’s suitable for most skin types and is well tolerated, with minimal downtime.
Brown Scars
Brown marks left behind after acne — known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) — are especially common in darker skin types. These marks can linger for years if not properly treated.
Approach
We use the Pico Pro laser — a state-of-the-art, Korean-made picosecond device — to safely and effectively fade pigmentation without damaging the surrounding skin. This advanced laser delivers ultra-short pulses that break down excess melanin while stimulating skin repair, helping to restore a clearer, more even complexion.
The Pico Pro is especially well-suited for treating PIH in darker skin types, offering powerful results with minimal risk of irritation or rebound pigmentation. A series of treatments is usually recommended, with most patients noticing visible improvement in tone and clarity over time.
Treatment types
TCA
Best for: Ice Pick Scars
This is a precision chemical peel technique used to treat individual scars by applying a high-concentration TCA solution directly into each scar. The treatment stimulates deep collagen production, helping the scar gradually fill in and smooth out over time.
Your specialist will apply the TCA using an ultra-fine brush to precisely target the base of each scar. The treated areas will initially turn white for around 24 hours, then begin the healing process. Within 24–48 hours, tiny erosions may form, followed by redness that typically resolves over 7–10 days.
Who it’s for: Suitable for patients with deep icepick scars who prefer a precise, low-downtime treatment targeting individual scars.
Treatment plan: 3-6 sessions
Downtime: 5–7 days
Recommended skin types: All skin types
CO2 resurfacing
Best for: Ice Pick, Boxcar, and Rolling Scars
Considered the gold standard in acne scar revision, this powerful resurfacing laser removes damaged and scarred skin layers while stimulating new collagen production. It is especially effective for deep ice pick scars, rolling scars, and textural irregularities, helping to create a smoother, more even skin surface.
The procedure typically takes 30–60 minutes and is performed under light sedation with facial nerve blocks. Downtime usually ranges from 7 to 14 days.
Who it’s for: This treatment is ideal for patients with significant scarring who are seeking the most intensive approach to scar reduction and are willing to invest the downtime for optimal results.
Treatment plan: 1–2 sessions
Downtime: 7–14 days
Recommended skin types: Light to medium skin tones
Subcision
Best for: Boxcar, Rolling, and Deep Ice Pick Scars
A minor surgical procedure that uses a fine needle to break the fibrous bands pulling the skin downward. By releasing these tethers, the indentation lifts, allowing the skin to smooth out more evenly over time.
Your specialist will perform this treatment under local anaesthetic. You may feel some tugging or pressure during the procedure as the scars are released. The treatment typically takes around 10–15 minutes.
Subcision is often combined with other treatments — such as dermal fillers or CO₂ laser resurfacing — to enhance results.
Who it’s for: Ideal for patients seeking noticeable improvement in skin texture with minimal downtime, especially those with tethered or indented scars.
Treatment plan: 1–2 sessions
Downtime: 2–3 days of bruising and swelling
Recommended skin types: All skin types
Surgical revision
Best for: Deep boxcar scars, tethered rolling scars, hypertrophic or wide scars
A precise surgical technique used to treat individual deep or broad scars. Methods such as punch excision or elliptical excision are used to remove or release dense scar tissue. These approaches help flatten raised scars, release tethered areas, and smooth the overall skin texture. Surgical revision is often paired with laser resurfacing to enhance final results.
Treatment is performed in-clinic under local anaesthetic. Your dermatologist will use meticulous techniques to minimise scarring and optimise cosmetic outcomes.
Who it’s for: Ideal for patients with deep or wide scars that may not fully respond to laser or chemical treatments alone.
Treatment plan: 1 session (often combined with adjunctive resurfacing)
Downtime: 7–14 days (depending on closure type and location)
Recommended skin types: All skin types
Vascular laser
Best for: Red post-acne marks (Post-Inflammatory Erythema)
A focused vascular laser treatment that targets persistent redness left behind after acne. The DermaV laser works by shrinking the microscopic blood vessels responsible for red marks, helping to calm inflammation and restore a more even skin tone—without damaging surrounding tissue.
Each session takes around 15 minutes. You may experience mild redness and swelling for 1–2 days as your skin begins to settle and improve.
Who it’s for: Ideal for patients with early-stage acne scarring and visible redness looking to achieve a clearer, more even complexion.
Treatment plan: 3–6 sessions
Downtime: 24–48 hours of mild swelling or redness
Recommended skin types: All skin types
Pico laser
Best for: Brown pigmentation (Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation)
A gentle yet powerful laser that targets excess melanin in the skin without causing heat damage. The PicoSure Pro laser is safe for darker skin tones and effectively fades stubborn pigmentation left behind after acne, helping to restore an even, balanced complexion.
Treatments take around 15–20 minutes and are often performed with topical numbing cream applied one hour prior. You may notice mild redness for 1–2 days, with gradual brightening over the following week.
Who its for: Perfect for patients wanting to safely treat pigmentation and achieve clearer, more luminous skin.
Treatment plan: 3–6 sessions
Downtime: 24–48 hours of mild redness or flaking
Recommended skin types: All skin types, including darker tones
Who can benefit?
Acne scarring can affect anyone who has experienced severe or persistent acne, especially those with deeper scarring. Whether your scars are the result of cystic acne, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, or other types of acne, effective treatment is available.
Typically, patients with moderate to severe acne scarring will benefit most from professional treatments, especially if over-the-counter products haven’t provided noticeable improvement. If you're looking to reduce the appearance of scars and restore smoother, more even skin, this treatment can be highly effective for you.
Our most commonly asked questions
If your skin issue persists after over-the-counter creams or GP advice, it’s time to see a specialist. We’ll review your history, examine your skin and explain what’s going on in clear terms.
Melasma is often triggered by hormonal changes, sun exposure, and genetic factors. It appears as dark patches, usually on the face, and can be persistent without specialist treatment.
Rosacea is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Triggers can include sun exposure, stress, temperature changes, certain foods, and hormonal fluctuations.
Rhinophyma is often linked to rosacea, a condition that causes redness and visible blood vessels on the face. It’s typically caused by a combination of genetics, inflammation, and environmental triggers like sun exposure or certain medications.
Any new, changing, or unusual spot should be checked — especially if it bleeds, itches, or grows over time. Look out for asymmetry, irregular borders, uneven colour, and diameter larger than 6mm. But some dangerous spots can look subtle, which is why regular checks with a dermatologist are vital.
Before & afters
Ready to take the next step in your skincare?
Whether it’s pigmentation, scarring, rosacea or skin cancer, we’ll provide a clear diagnosis and a treatment plan tailored to your skin’s needs. Call us today or book a consultation to start your specialist care.