Acne scars are structural changes in the skin that persist after active breakouts have resolved. They develop when inflammation disrupts normal collagen production during the healing process. Acne scars vary in appearance and are commonly classified into types such as ice pick scars, rolling scars, and boxcar scars, each reflecting different patterns of collagen loss.
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What Causes Acne Scarring?
Acne scars form when the skin’s healing process is altered by inflammation, leading to irregular collagen remodeling. Deeper or prolonged acne lesions increase the likelihood of scarring, while behaviors such as picking can further damage tissue. Individual healing patterns and genetic factors also influence how the skin repairs itself, which is why some patients are more prone to scarring than others.
Before | After: RF Microneedling effectively treats acne scarring.
Before | After: A combination of CO2 resurfacing, subcision with PRP and phenol cross peel to reduce acne scarring.
Before | After: 2 sessions with the V-beam laser to remove redness from acne scarring. By addressing the skin tone, uneven texture is much less apparent.
Before | After: After a series of RF Microneedling treatments this patient saw an improvement in acne scars and overall skin texture.
Before | After: Among other things, Microneedling addresses textural issues, which is why it can be used to treat facial acne scarring.
Before | After: After a series of Microneedling treatment, this patient saw a noticeable improvement to fine lines and wrinkles around the mouth.
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Treatment
Treating Acne Scars at Aesthetic Solutions
Treatment for acne scars focuses on releasing bound down scar tissue and improving overall skin texture. The selection of lasers or energy based devices is guided by the depth, type, and characteristics of the scars. In certain cases, subcision may be performed to mechanically release tethered scar bands, with or without the addition of platelet rich plasma (PRP). Injectable fillers, RF microneedling, traditional microneedling, and resurfacing lasers such as CO2, Fraxel, or Halo Pro may all be incorporated into treatment planning.
Because acne scarring varies significantly between individuals, combination approaches are often necessary to achieve meaningful improvement.