Acne scars

Treatments for red and brown marks and indented acne scars.

No referral needed · at ActivMD Derm Spa, next door to our clinic

Acne scars can seem like double punishment. First you had to suffer through the pimples; now you have the dreaded marks that never seem to fade as fast as you would like.

Acne scarring can be twofold. First is post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, which leaves red or brown marks. Second are ice pick scars, which are indentations or “pits” in the skin. At Rao Dermatology, we have specialized devices and treatments that can erase, or at least minimize, these marks and indentations.

How acne scars form

Acne marks, also known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, are dark or red spots that remain after an acne lesion has healed. When the pore swells from acne, a break occurs in the follicle wall. If the break is deep enough, the redness becomes semi-permanent, and indented scars can even occur.

The redness is due to blood cells that pool in the area and then harden in an attempt to heal the infected pore. While uneven skin texture and pigmentation changes may lessen with time, many people are unhappy with the long-lasting changes acne leaves behind.

Fortunately, at Rao Dermatology we offer treatments that can reduce the look of acne scars by reducing pigment, brightening skin and evening out complexion.

Types of scars

Icepick scars are thin but deep columns of missing skin tissue. Commonly arising from severe acne, they usually appear on the cheek or nose.
Boxcar scars are round or oval depressions with steep vertical sides. Wider than ice pick scars, they give the skin a pitted appearance.
Depressed fibrotic scars are large, hard, crater-like scars that can form when ice pick scars are aggravated.
Macules are flat pigmented patches, typically the end result of severe acne, appearing and persisting after the original inflammation.
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation can appear anywhere on the body and varies in size. It is often caused by hormonal changes and/or acne inflammation.
Soft scars are generally small and vary in depth and shape.
Atrophic macules are soft and sometimes blue or white. They can appear on the body as well as the face.
Follicular macular atrophy appears as small, raised, generally white bumps, usually on the chest or back.
Rolling scars are relatively broad depressions in the skin with rounded, sloping edges.

Acne scar treatment options

We are proud to offer a variety of procedures that treat all types of acne scars, from superficial to deep acne scar tissue. Treatment plans differ from patient to patient, depending on the type of acne scarring.

Laser treatments

Our laser treatments for acne scars include IPL, Laser Genesis, Nano Laser Peel and Sciton Profractional. They offer a degree of control and efficacy that allows for highly precise sculpting of the skin, targeting superficial to deep acne scar tissue. Lasers are ideal for patients who want dramatic results with minimal downtime.

Dermal fillers

Dermal fillers are an effective way to treat, and potentially get rid of, certain types of acne scars, and are particularly effective for rolling scars and some less defined boxcar scars. They are safe and well tolerated, fill the depression associated with scars with great results, and are excellent for volume loss caused by acne scarring.

Medical facials

Medical facials are a great way to maintain your skin and treat acne scarring. They are affordable, milder treatments that can still make a difference when done routinely.

Daily advanced skin care is also part of our acne scar treatment options.

Book your acne scar consultation

At Rao Dermatology, we work closely with patients to determine the best course of treatment for their unique needs. If scars are your concern, we welcome you for an individualized consultation, where you can learn about the many treatment options that can help you achieve the beautiful, glowing skin you desire.

Book a consultation