How To Get Rid Of Acne Scars

Acne scars, those persistent reminders of the battles we fought on our skin, can surely leave lasting imprints on our confidence. In the search for getting rid of these marks, we often find ourselves going through a sea of information, each promising a miracle solution. Yet, amidst this abundance of expert advice and home remedies, finding the right way to bid farewell to acne scars can be like navigating a real labyrinth. The truth is, not all scars are created equal, and what worked wonders for a friend might have minimal results for you — if any. During this journey to smoother, scar-free skin, it's important to recognize the individuality of your scars and, hence, the need for a solution tailored to you.

In order to banish acne scars, it is essential to understand just what they are — and what kind you have. Knowing that will help determine just what method you can use to get rid of them. After all, from tried-and-true professional treatments to at-home remedies, the options are as diverse as the scars themselves.

But before we dive into the world of scar-fighting techniques, we also want to remind you that acne scars don't define your beauty. Each mark on your skin tells a story of resilience, and embracing your scars is a part of the journey of self-acceptance. While we aim to empower you with knowledge and options, it's essential to approach acne scars with a sense of self-worth, knowing that your beauty radiates from within, scars and all.

Acne scars are the result of a complex process that begins with acne itself. "Acne scars refer to marks that are left behind after a pimple goes away," Marisa Garshick, a board-certified dermatologist, tells Vogue. "[They] can appear as red or brown discoloration or a blemish, or as a change in texture." If you're unsure whether you have acne scars, here's a tip: "Close your eyes and run your fingers over your face or the acne-affected area," board-certified dermatologist Shereene Idriss recommends to Vogue. "If you feel textural changes, then you most likely have acne scars."

Inflammation plays a big role in the development of acne scars, and as medical aesthetician Annie Christenson points out, "This inflammation causes trauma to skin tissue — leading to scarring" (via Houston Methodist). The likelihood of scarring and the type of scars that may result can vary from person to person based on their unique skin characteristics. It's essential to note that squeezing or picking at pimples or whiteheads can exacerbate inflammation, increasing the risk of scarring. "Plus, if your hands aren't clean, picking at your acne can lead to a small, localized infection or your acne spreading to other areas of skin," Christenson adds. However, understanding the process behind acne scars is the first step in effectively addressing and minimizing their appearance.

Erythema, in simple terms, refers to the redness of the skin, typically caused by external irritation or various inflammatory conditions. "When inflammation occurs associated with an acne bump, it can trigger an increase and dilation of blood vessels and vascularity," dermatologist Marisa Garshick tells Byrdie. "Which is what can give the skin a red appearance, related to an increased concentration of blood vessels in that area," she adds. "Additionally, the general redness that goes along with the inflammation can linger and also contribute to post-inflammatory erythema."

On the other hand, hyperpigmentation presents a different skin concern. Unlike acne scars, which can manifest as a change in the skin's texture, hyperpigmentation is characterized by the darkening of the skin in specific areas (via Dr. Eugenie Brunner). Dermatologist Justine Kluk explains to Cosmopolitan that hyperpigmentation "occurs due to an increase in the number of pigment-producing cells in the skin, or the pigmented substance they produce (melanin)." It's worth noting that post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation can develop as a result of acne. Once the acne heals, they may leave behind these darkened patches, which are often confused with acne scars. Just like acne scars, hyperpigmentation also has different types.

Acne scars come in various types, each with its own distinct characteristics. Identifying the type of acne scars you have is crucial for determining the most effective way to minimize their appearance and get rid of any texture on your skin. There are four main kinds — ice pick scars, rolling scars, boxcar scars, and hypertrophic scars.

"Just as the name suggests, ice pick scars are deep and look like sharp indents," celebrity esthetician Joanna Vargas tells Byrdie. "The scar is created by a deep cyst that rose to the surface, creating a loss of skin tissue." Rolling scars, on the other hand, are "thin with a wavelike pattern and smooth edges," board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green shares with Byrdie, adding that they tend to be common with patients who "have suffered from inflammatory acne for a long time."

Another type of acne scar is boxcar scars, which "are shallow, indented scars with sharp edges," Green explains. Lastly, there are also hypertrophic scars, which "are a result of an overgrowth of fibrous tissue," resulting in "elevated lesions," Green adds. While you can determine the type of scar you have yourself, we recommend going to a dermatologist to get a proper diagnosis, as it is possible to have multiple types of scars at the same time.

Fighting acne scars is a common skincare concern, and many wonder if it's even possible to get rid of them and how long that might take. "[Acne scars] are difficult to treat because you have such a prominent loss of collagen in that area, and it generally goes fairly deep within the skin. So it's not just surface-level that can fade quickly," licensed esthetician Scout Garbaczewski reveals to The Zoe Report. However, it is possible to make them disappear or at least minimize their appearance, but it does take effort. And while some acne scars can be treated at home, Garbaczewski recommends going for "professional treatments" as those tend to be the "most effective."

Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Elyse Love emphasizes that the duration of scar treatment can vary based on several factors, like how deep the scars are, how long they've been there, and what treatment is used to banish them. "In general, the greater the downtime, the less treatments needed. So, you may need three microneedling with radiofrequency sessions for every ablative laser treatment [because of how aggressive the latter is]," Love told The Zoe Report. Consulting with a dermatologist or skincare professional is essential as they can help you develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific acne scars.

Chemical exfoliation is a great approach for addressing surface scars. "Chemical peels work by removing the top layer of skin, allowing new, healthy skin to present," dermatologist Deanne Mraz Robinson tells Healthline. "Look for alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), including salicylic acid and glycolic acid." If you have sensitive skin, she suggests considering "glycolic- or lactic acid-based, as they can be more gentle than salicylic acid."

Medical aesthetician Annie Christenson reveals to Houston Methodist that "chemical peels are great for both discoloration and indentation scarring, and these peels can also help with what's called ice pick scarring — very deep indentations that form due to severe acne lesions." So, whether you're dealing with discoloration or deeper scars, chemical peels can be a great place to begin.

Keep in mind that chemical peels should be approached with caution and are typically more effective when performed by a professional. It's essential to consult with a dermatologist or skincare specialist to determine the most suitable chemical peel for your acne scars. Additionally, chemical peels may require multiple sessions to achieve noticeable results, so patience and consistency are key.

Retinoids, known for their effectiveness in skincare, offer numerous benefits when it comes to treating acne scars. As licensed esthetician Scout Garbaczewski points out to The Zoe Report, "Retinoids increase collagen production and increase your average skin cycle, so it gets [healing] moving along more quickly and helps clear up breakouts that can cause scars."

This dual action of collagen production and increased skin cell turnover makes retinoids a valuable tool in the fight against acne scars. They not only help to fade existing scars but also work to prevent new ones from forming. However, it's worth noting that retinoids can be potent, and it's essential to use them as directed by a healthcare professional or dermatologist to avoid adverse effects such as dryness or irritation. Before you begin using any type of retinoid, make sure you get acquainted with their application and side effects. When used consistently and correctly, retinoids can lead to smoother, more even-toned skin with diminished scar visibility.

Vitamin C is a powerhouse ingredient in the world of skincare, known for its ability to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation — all while also giving your skin a fresh and dewy appearance. "Because of its antioxidant properties, vitamin C aids in your skin's natural regeneration process, which helps your body repair damaged skin cells," Patricia Wexler, a New York City dermatologist, tells Allure. Vitamin C is best for those with hyperpigmentation or post-inflammatory spots. 

For optimal results, it's essential to select a vitamin C serum labeled L-ascorbic acid, "which is the active form of the vitamin," notes WebMD. This specific form of vitamin C is more "effective in penetrating the skin barrier" compared to other versions, like creams. However, individuals with sensitive skin should introduce vitamin C into their skincare routine gradually (or not use it at all).

Vitamin C can be potent, especially in its ascorbic acid form — so applying it sparingly in the beginning can help minimize the risk of irritation. As your skin becomes more used to the product, you can gradually increase the frequency to harness its full benefits in promoting overall skin rejuvenation. If your skin can't handle the potency, opt for products containing magnesium ascorbyl phosphate, which The Derm Review explains is a less-irritating form of vitamin C.

Microneedling is gaining recognition as a promising treatment option for those dealing with acne scars. Dr. Mark McKenna, chief medical officer and founder of OVME Aesthetics, explains to The Zoe Report, "Microneedling involves controlled microtrauma to the skin that stimulates collagen synthesis. It is particularly effective when it's coupled with radiofrequency, which essentially tightens the skin." Collagen, a crucial structural protein, plays a pivotal role in maintaining skin elasticity and promoting a smoother appearance. By triggering collagen synthesis, microneedling encourages the skin's natural rejuvenation processes.

Dr. Dhaval Bhanusali, a board-certified dermatologist, elaborates on the technique, stating, "This technique employs tiny needles to induce microscopic channels in the skin, stimulating collagen production and creating portals to deliver topical actives. It's one of the few procedures that's safe for every skin type" (via The Zoe Report).

The American Academy of Dermatology notes that this procedure is best for those with "widespread depressed acne scars," like boxcar, rolling, and ice pick scars, and not so much acne scars that are raised. Also, keep in mind that microneedling doesn't have instant results, as it might take some time before you see the improvements.

Dermal fillers may be a viable option for addressing specific types of acne scars, particularly ice pick, rolling, and boxcar scars. The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery reveals that even though "Bellafill is the only FDA approved injectable filler for the long-term correction of acne scars," there are other filler options like Juvederm, Radiesse, Belotereo, Restylane, or Sculptra that can be used. Dr. Michele Green reveals that she likes using Juvederm, "a hyaluronic acid-based dermal filler which can be used to treat depressed acne scars such as icepick scars and boxcar scars" (via Byrdie).

According to the Associated Skin Care Specialists, dermal fillers like Juvederm work by injecting a gel into the depressed areas of the skin, effectively elevating and smoothing out the scarred tissue. The filler adds volume to the depressed area, hence reducing the visibility of these scars and creating a more even skin surface. Like most procedures involving needles, fillers can also have side effects, the most common being swelling, redness, discoloration, and an allergic reaction.

Laser treatments offer a quick and effective solution for addressing acne scars. As Dr. Elyse Love explains to The Zoe Report, great options are "ablative procedures [that remove skin's top layer]" as they "are the most powerful and will show the best results with fewest treatments."

However, non-ablative laser resurfacing and fractionated laser treatment are two options that are available as well. With non-ablative laser resurfacing, the heat from the laser is what stimulates collagen production, while a fractionated laser treatment stimulates the tissue under the scar itself (via Healthline). "Patients with darker skin tones are candidates for non-ablative lasers, as they do not induce the abnormal pigmentation that often arises with ablative laser use on darker skin," dermatologist Rachel Westbay tells Cosmopolitan. 

To ensure you get the results you want, you need to research which trained professional is best for you. A board-certified dermatologist will be able to determine which laser will be the most effective for the type of scarring you have and how many treatments are needed to reach your skin goals. 

Hypertrophic scars (also sometimes called keloid scars) are characterized by their elevated appearance and can be effectively treated with steroid injections. "Steroid injections are the best treatment for hypertrophic scars," Dr. Michele Green reveals to Byrdie. "The injections break up the fibrous tissue beneath the skin, reducing the size of the scar." According to NYU Langone Health, the procedure typically lasts approximately 15 minutes, with potential side effects including skin thinning and localized skin depression in the scarred area.

While steroid injections have proven to be highly effective in reducing the prominence of hypertrophic scars, it's important to mention that these treatments are only effective for raised scars. Therefore, individuals with diverse types of acne scars should consult with their dermatologist or skincare specialist to make a game plan, as they might need to explore a combination of various treatments tailored to their specific scars.

LED light therapy is a versatile option for addressing various types of scars. "LED treats the deeper cell layers," the founder of Copenhagen's Amazing Space spa, Laura Bonné, tells Vogue. "The light energy is transformed into ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which is the energy needed to create collagen and elastin fibers. With light treatments, the cells receive extra energy to regenerate and restore skin tissue."

Of course, professional LED treatments are much more potent than at-home options, but that doesn't mean you can't harness any benefits from a home device. "Just like any other professional versus at-home device, a professional LED therapy service has a stronger wavelength of light and has more LED coverage, meaning it is able to target your entire face, neck, and chest," esthetician Sarah Akram tells MindBodyGreen. "At-home LED devices are great for use in between services, but you can only treat certain areas at a time, depending on the device."

Incorporating LED therapy into your skincare routine can be a game-changer. Although it can take several weeks to see results, the gentle, non-invasive nature of LED light makes it great for various scar types — from raised hypertrophic scars to atrophic ones. Additionally, it's a painless procedure with no downtime, meaning that it allows you to go about your day without disruption.

Microdermabrasion is known for its effectiveness in addressing various types of skin concerns. Per StatPearls, microdermabrasion is a "resurfacing procedure used to treat uneven skin tone/texture, photoaging, striae, melasma, and scars, including acne scars." However, keep in mind that microdermabrasion isn't the best option for major textural problems or raised scars.

"Microdermabrasion doesn't affect collagen production, which would be the aim in order to 'fill out' scar tissue," clinical facialist Kate Kerr tells Cosmopolitan. "So while the treatment may 'polish' an uneven surface somewhat, results will be minimal," Kerr says.

For those with raised scars, dermabrasion is an option, but that's "a much more intensive treatment done under local anesthetic" and "is done by a medical professional, never a beauty therapist," Kerr explains. Microdermabrasion's ability to remove dead skin cells can lead to a significant reduction in hyperpigmentation. By effectively addressing discoloration of the area, this treatment is a reliable option for those looking to combat hyperpigmentation issues due to acne.

For individuals with deep acne scars, subcision surgery is by far the best solution — even though it might sound intimidating. "The procedure is performed by inserting an 18-gauge needle at an acute angle adjacent to the scar with the bevel upwards and parallel to the surface of the skin," Dr. Michele Green tells Byrdie.

"Using a fanning motion horizontally, the fibrous bands are severed. As this occurs, blood containing collagen and elastin fibers rushes into the depressed scar, replacing some of the lost collagen," Dr. Green explains. Furthermore, a 2016 study published in the International Journal of Research in Medical Sciences notes that between subcision, derma rollers, and CO2 fractional laser, subcision produces the best results for acne scars. 

Subcision surgery, while effective, is a specialized procedure that should be conducted only by a qualified healthcare professional experienced in this technique. As with any medical procedure, it's advisable to consult with a dermatologist to determine if this is something for you, especially as subcision surgery can have some side effects — like bruising, swelling, and "persistent firm bumps at the treatment site," as reported by a study via Dermatologic Surgery.

When it comes to at-home remedies for treating acne scars, it's important to mention that while some options lack robust scientific backing, they may still offer potential benefits. Apple cider vinegar is known as a household staple for more than just your salad dressing. "While there haven't been any scientific studies specifically evaluating apple cider vinegar for acne, the acetic acid in apple cider vinegar has both antibacterial and keratolytic properties [able to remove skin lesions, like warts or calluses]," Sejal Shah, a board-certified dermatologist, tells Women's Health. Thus, over time, apple cider vinegar is also said to help improve acne scars.

Black seed oil is another popular at-home remedy for acne scars, and board-certified dermatologist Azadeh Shirazi revealed to Forbes that it can help with skin conditions "like psoriasis, eczema, vitiligo, and acne" — although you shouldn't expect a miracle. Onion extract is another popular choice, and it's best when used in a gel-consistency product. "It has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties and reduces scar formation at the cellular level," plastic surgeon Ronald Friedman tells Dermatology Times. Aloe vera is another often used remedy, thanks to its compound aloesin, which can help with hyperpigmentation (via Healthline).

While these natural remedies may hold promise, individual responses can vary, and their effectiveness for acne scars may not be universally established. So, if you decide to give any of them a chance, it's essential to exercise caution and conduct patch tests to ensure they are well-tolerated by your skin and do not cause unwanted reactions.

Preventing acne scars is best achieved by having a proactive skincare routine tailored to your skin type. This daily regimen should include cleansing, moisturizing, and sunscreen application with non-comedogenic products to ensure your skincare routine doesn't cause acne. To prevent acne scars as much as possible, make sure you address acne breakouts as they emerge and consider over-the-counter or prescribed treatments like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid.

Another important step in preventing acne scars is resisting the urge to pick or pop pimples, which can worsen scarring. Similarly, leave scabs that have formed undisturbed, as they play a crucial role in the healing process. Protect your skin from the negative effects of sun exposure by applying sunscreen regularly, as sun rays can actually worsen acne scars and hyperpigmentation (via U.S. Dermatology Partners). Lastly, proper hydration and a balanced diet rich in antioxidants can help your overall skin health and healing.