Acne scars and marks
Also called Post-acne scarring, Acne marks
Marks and scars left behind by inflamed acne, from flat surface pigmentation to deeper pitted scarring.
Seen by
At a glance
- Who it affects
- People with previous inflamed or cystic acne.
- What you notice
- Flat marks, pigmentation, or deeper pitted scars.
- What helps
- May include peeling, microdermabrasion, MNRF or other options; suitability varies with scar depth.
What we do
Your doctor may match treatment to scar depth and skin. Improvement varies, and several sessions may be needed.
What you can do
- Avoid picking new spots.
- Use sun protection advised by your doctor.
- Ask before starting a procedure.
Read the full page on Acne scars and marks
What it is
Acne that becomes inflamed — particularly the pus-filled spots and the cysts — can leave marks and scars behind when it settles. These range from flat marks and pigmentation on the surface to deeper scarring in the skin. Squeezing pimples makes scarring much more likely.
How we treat it
The clinic offers several treatments for acne marks and scars, and the right one depends on how deep the scarring goes.
- Chemical peeling may help acne, superficial acne marks and scars, and the pigmentation left behind by inflammation. Glycolic acid is applied in a controlled way, usually over four to five sittings two to four weeks apart.
- Microdermabrasion uses a fine spray of medical-grade crystals to exfoliate the surface. It is used for superficial acne marks and scars, and a session takes 15 to 30 minutes.
- Microneedling fractional radiofrequency (MNRF) combines superfine microneedles with radiofrequency heat to remodel collagen in the deeper layer of the skin. It is used for moderate to severe acne scars, and generally needs four to six sessions at intervals of four to six weeks.
- Microneedling with a dermaroller and Fraxel laser resurfacing are also named in Dr Satish’s acne leaflet as treatments available for marks and scars.
Your doctor will advise which of these suits your skin.
What you can do
Prevention comes first. Acne that is treated early and properly settles well in most people, and treating it early lowers the risk of lasting scarring. Do not squeeze or pick at spots.
“It is always better to prevent scars by proper and early treatment of severe acne.” — Dr. D. A. Satish, patient leaflet
Reviewed by Dr. D. A. Satish · date to be confirmedUnder clinical review
This page is being updated. The clinical information here comes from the clinic’s own patient leaflet and is under review by the doctor. Please ask at your consultation.
The information on this website is for general education only. It is not a substitute for a consultation, a diagnosis or a prescription. Always see a qualified doctor about your own condition.