Acne scars are a common aftermath of breakouts that can leave lasting marks on your skin. When acne causes deep inflammation, it can damage the skin’s underlying structure, including collagen, elastin, and other supportive components. During the healing process, the body attempts to repair this damage by producing new collagen. However, if the collagen production is insufficient or disorganized, the skin may heal unevenly, leading to atrophic (indented) scars.
The good news? While it can take time, with the right tools you can reduce the appearance of acne scars, sometimes entirely. This guide will help you understand the different types of acne scars, how to distinguish them from other skin conditions, and which treatments can help.
Types of Acne Scars
Not all acne scars are the same. They vary in appearance and require tailored treatments for the best results. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types:
1. Ice Pick Scars
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Appearance: Small, deep pits that look like a puncture wound.
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Common Areas: Forehead and upper cheeks where skin is thinner.
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Cause: Severe inflammation that destroys skin tissue.
2. Boxcar Scars
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Appearance: Broad, shallow depressions with well-defined edges.
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Common Areas: Jawline and lower cheeks.
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Cause: Loss of collagen during the healing process.
3. Rolling Scars
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Appearance: Wavy and uneven texture.
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Common Areas: Lower cheeks and jaw.
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Cause: Damage under the surface of the skin.
Acne Scars vs. Post-Inflammatory Erythema (PIE)
It’s essential to differentiate acne scars from post-inflammatory erythema (PIE)—pink or red marks left behind by acne. PIE occurs due to damaged capillaries under the skin. Unlike scars, PIE isn’t permanent and responds well to treatments like SPF protection and targeted skincare.
Treatments for Acne Scars
To heal acne scars we need to look to ingredients like Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and Growth Factors to stimulate healthy collagen production and cellular renewal. Alpha hydroxy acids like glycolic, mandelic, and lactic acid are important for scarring because they exfoliate the skin, improve skin texture, and stimulate collagen production, helping to fade scars and reveal smoother, more even skin.
1. Skincare Products
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Growth Factors: Osmosis StemFactor Growth Factor Serum
This growth factor serum promotes collagen production, helping to repair damaged skin and smooth out scars. It’s particularly effective for treating atrophic scars like ice pick and boxcar scars. -
Environ Concentrated Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) Toner:
This glycolic acid based toner gently encourages exfoliation without damaging the skin’s natural acid mantle. It smooths and refines the skin, excellent for improving texture and small bumps. It is our favourite AHA for promoting cell turnover and reducing the appearance of scarring. Over time, this helps smooth skin texture and even out skin tone. -
Environ AVST Moisturiser 1:
This antioxidant-rich moisturizer nourishes the skin and supports its natural healing process with Vitamins A, C, & E. It can help strengthen the skin barrier and improve elasticity, making scars less noticeable. -
Coola Sunscreen:
Unprotected sun exposure can further breakdown collagen - which we need to heal atrophic scarring. Daily sunscreen application protects your skin from harmful UV rays and prevents worsening pigmentation (PIE).
2. Professional Treatments
For deeper or more stubborn scars, professional treatments can deliver transformative results. There are many cosmetic procedures to target scarring - from microneedling to laser resurfacing to chemical peels.
This treatment stimulates the skin’s natural collagen production by creating tiny, controlled injuries in the skin, triggering a wound healing response that boosts collagen and elastin production.
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Benefits:
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Smooths uneven skin texture.
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Reduces the depth of scars, especially ice pick and rolling scars.
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Improves overall skin firmness and elasticity.
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Frequency
Typically 4-6 sessions are required for advanced acne scarring. The Face Club Collagen Builder combines microneedling with other technologies to further accelerate results. Purchase a package of 4 and save $395
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Laser Resurfacing
Fractional lasers, such as CO2 or erbium lasers, target the deeper layers of skin to resurface scarred tissue and promote collagen regeneration. These treatments are particularly effective for smoothing out atrophic scars like boxcar or rolling scars.
Skincare Tips for Acne Scar Prevention
While treating existing scars is essential, preventing new scars is equally important. Follow these tips:
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Treat acne early: Reducing inflammation and getting on top of your acne early minimizes the risk of scarring.
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Avoid picking or popping pimples: This can worsen inflammation and lead to deeper scars.
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Use gentle skincare products: Avoid harsh scrubs or treatments like microdermabrasion that can damage the skin barrier.
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Apply sunscreen daily: Protect your skin from UV damage, which can darken scars and slow healing.
Real Results
These are Megan’s results after a series of microneedling, cool peels, and daily skincare. Her routine includes Dermaviduals Cleansing Milk with DMS, Environ Concentrated Alpha-Hydroxy Toner, Osmosis StemFactor, AVST Moisturiser 4, and Coola Rosilliance Tinted SPF 30.
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