At Sarin Skin, our dermatologists specialize in the treatment of acne scarring using a combination of multiple modalities, including lasers, IPL, chemical peels, filler injections, microneedling, radiofrequency, and surgery.
The optimal treatment approach depends upon the type of scarring and is often a combination of several techniques. The following treatments can be used alone or together to reduce the appearance of acne scars.
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1. Chemical peels
- Salicylic Acid: Treats ruddy, brown discoloration (PIH) and penetrates oil glands to treat and prevent acne.
- Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA): Used in high concentrations to treat individual icepick scars.
2. Subcision
- A needle with a tiny blade is inserted beneath depressed scars to release tethered tissue.
- Often combined with microneedling, radiofrequency, and/or CO₂ laser.
3. Microneedling & radiofrequency microneedling
- Microneedling: Induces controlled skin injury to stimulate collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid.
- RF Microneedling: Amplifies collagen remodeling for enhanced skin tightening.
4. Laser treatments
- CO₂ Laser Resurfacing: Creates micro-columns in the skin to regenerate new skin.
- Gold standard for moderate to severe acne scarring. Involves ~1 week of downtime.
5. Fillers
- Small droplets of dermal filler used to lift and smooth depressed acne scars.
6. Injection treatment
- For hypertrophic scars and keloids.
- Uses corticosteroids and/or 5-fluorouracil to flatten and soften raised scars.
7. Surgical excision
- Ideal for resistant icepick scars.
- A circular blade removes the scar, followed by a small stitch.
What causes acne scarring?
Acne scars result from inflammation of acne lesions, especially when acne is severe or not treated early.
How do I know which treatment is right for me?
The treatment depends on the type of acne scars (icepick, boxcar, rolling, or hypertrophic). A dermatologist will evaluate your skin to customize a plan.
Is laser treatment safe for all skin types?
Yes, but it must be performed by an experienced dermatologist who understands how different lasers affect various skin tones.
How many sessions will I need?
Most treatments require multiple sessions for optimal results. The number depends on the severity of your scarring and the chosen treatment method.
Are acne scar treatments painful?
Some discomfort may be experienced during certain procedures like lasers or microneedling, but topical numbing creams are used to reduce pain.