Acne scars can be frustrating, especially when they stick around long after breakouts have healed. You’re in the right place if you’ve been wondering how to remove acne scars and which treatments work. The good news? There are effective ways to reduce and even eliminate acne scars, whether through at-home skincare or professional treatments.
Let’s dive into the best acne scar treatments, what works for different scar types, and how to achieve smooth skin.
Understanding Acne Scars: Why Do They Happen?
Not all acne scars are the same; treating them effectively means knowing your type.
Types of Acne Scars
- Atrophic (Depressed) Scars – Indented scars that result from collagen loss.
- Boxcar scars: Wide, shallow depressions.
- Ice pick scars: Narrow, deep scars.
- Rolling scars: Wavy depressions that give skin a rough texture.
- Hypertrophic (Raised) Scars – Thickened scars that form due to excess collagen production.
- Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) – Dark marks left behind after acne heals (not true scars, but still frustrating!).
Now that we know the types let’s explore how to get rid of acne scars effectively.
Best At-Home Acne Scar Treatments
If your scars are mild, at-home treatments can significantly improve skin texture and fade discoloration.
1. Retinol for Skin Cell Turnover
Retinol is a game-changer for acne scars. It increases cell turnover, boosts collagen, and smooths skin over time.
- Best for: Atrophic scars, PIH
- How to use: Apply 2-3 times a week, gradually increasing as your skin adjusts.
2. Vitamin C for Brightening
Vitamin C helps fade dark spots and even out skin tone.
- Best for: PIH, mild scarring
- How to use: Apply in the morning under SPF.
3. Exfoliating Acids (AHAs & BHAs)
Chemical exfoliants like glycolic and salicylic acid help improve skin texture by removing dead skin cells.
- Best for: Shallow scars, discoloration
- How to use: Start with 1-2 times per week and increase as tolerated.
4. Silicone Scar Gels
Silicone-based gels create a barrier that helps flatten raised scars over time.
- Best for: Hypertrophic scars
Professional Acne Scar Treatments for Faster Results
Professional treatments offer faster and more dramatic improvements for deeper or more stubborn scars.
1. Microneedling for collagen-boosting
Microneedling involves tiny needles that create micro-injuries, triggering the skin’s healing process and collagen production.
- Best for: Atrophic scars, rolling scars
- Downtime: Minimal (1-3 days of redness)
2. Laser Skin Resurfacing for Deep Scars
Laser treatments use controlled energy to remove damaged skin layers and stimulate collagen renewal.
- Best for: Deep scars, ice pick scars
- Downtime: Varies (a few days to a week)
3. Chemical Peels for Texture & Discoloration
A chemical peel exfoliates deeper than at-home acids, revealing smoother skin over time.
- Best for: Mild atrophic scars, PIH
- Downtime: 3-7 days (peeling phase)
4. Dermal Fillers for Indented Scars
Fillers plump up atrophic scars by adding volume beneath the skin.
- Best for: Deep boxcar scars, rolling scars
- Results: Immediate, but temporary (6-12 months)
FAQs About Acne Scar Treatments
Can acne scars go away completely?
Some mild scars fade over time, while deeper scars often require professional treatments for the best results.
How long does it take to see results?
- At-home treatments: 3-6 months
- Microneedling & lasers: 1-3 sessions for noticeable improvement
- Chemical peels: After a few treatments
What’s the best treatment for deep acne scars?
A combination of microneedling, lasers, and fillers typically works best for deep scars.
Is laser treatment safe for dark skin?
Yes! However, choosing lasers for darker skin tones is important to avoid hyperpigmentation.
Get Rid of Acne Scars with Professional Treatments in Ann Arbor
At Kind Laser Skin and Wellness, we specialize in customized acne scar removal treatments tailored to your skin type. Whether you’re looking for microneedling, laser resurfacing, or chemical peels, we’ll help you achieve smooth, scar-free skin.
Located at 2730 Carpenter Road, Suite 3, Ann Arbor, MI 48108
Call us today to schedule a consultation!