If you’ve ever suffered from acne, then the chances are that the possibility of scarring is a daily concern.
Acne scarring can leave behind dents, discoloration, and textured irregularities— visible reminders of past breakouts that can impact self-confidence. Whether you’re dealing with shallow marks or deeper indentations, it’s natural to wonder: Will acne scars go away?
The answer depends on the type and severity of your scars, as well as the treatments you pursue, both during a breakout and afterwards.
The good news is, that with the right care and professional guidance, you can achieve smoother, healthier-looking skin. This blog will help you understand the different kinds of acne scars, what causes them, and the most effective ways to minimize their appearance.
What Causes Acne Scars?
Acne scars form when the skin’s healing process is disrupted after a breakout.
Inflamed acne lesions, such as pimples, pustules, or cysts, damage the skin tissue. Your body naturally responds to this damage by producing collagen, a protein essential for skin repair. However, the process isn’t always perfect. If too little collagen is produced, you may end up with atrophic scars (depressions in the skin). If too much collagen is produced, hypertrophic or raised scars can form.
Does Acne Always Lead to Scarring?
Acne doesn’t always result in scarring, no.
Several factors can influence whether or not a breakout lingers on your skin long after it’s healed:
Type of Acne
Severe forms of acne, such as cystic or nodular acne, are more likely to leave scars due to the intense inflammation they cause. Milder forms, like blackheads and whiteheads, are less likely to result in permanent marks.
Delay in Treatment
Leaving acne untreated for long periods increases the risk of scarring. Prompt treatment can reduce the likelihood of severe damage to the skin, and scar removal treatment can also help reduce these effects over time.
Skin Picking or Popping
As tempting as it is to get stuck picking at your acne during a breakout, it’s best to take steps to stop yourself. Picking at acne lesions can worsen inflammation and push bacteria deeper into the skin, damaging deeper layers and increasing the chance of scarring.
Genetics
Your skin’s natural healing ability plays a significant role. Some people are more prone to scarring than others due to genetic factors.
Understanding the underlying causes of acne scars is the first step in addressing them effectively. Now, let’s explore the different types of acne scars in more detail.
Types of Acne Scars
Acne scars are generally classified into two main categories: atrophic scars (depressed) and hypertrophic scars (raised). Each type has unique characteristics and responds to treatments differently.
Atrophic (or Depressed) Scars
Atrophic scars occur when the skin loses tissue during the healing process. These scars are most commonly associated with acne and can be divided into three subtypes:
- Ice pick scars
Ice pick scars are narrow, deep pits that look like tiny holes in the skin. They often resemble the marks left by a sharp object and are challenging to treat because of their depth. - Boxcar scars
Boxcar scars are wider and more shallow than ice pick scars. They have well-defined edges and give the skin a pitted or crater-like appearance. - Rolling scars
Rolling scars are broad depressions with sloping edges that create a wavy texture on the skin. They are often caused by bands of scar tissue pulling on the skin’s surface.
Hypertrophic Scars
Hypertrophic scars result from excess collagen production during the healing process. Unlike atrophic scars, they appear as raised, thickened areas of skin. Hypertrophic scars are more common on the chest, back, and shoulders than on the face.
Do Acne Scars Go Away Naturally?
The short answer is: it depends.
Some types of acne scars, particularly mild ones, can fade over time with proper care. For example, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)—the dark or red spots that often appear after a breakout—typically fades naturally within a few months to a year. Sunscreen, gentle exfoliation, and hydrating skincare products can help speed up this process.
However, deeper scars, such as ice pick, boxcar, or rolling scars, are unlikely to go away without targeted treatments. These scars are a result of structural damage to the skin, which the body cannot repair entirely on its own. Fortunately, there are many professional treatments available to improve their appearance.
Effective Treatments for Acne Scars
Thanks to advancements in dermatology and aesthetic medicine, there are now numerous treatments designed to address acne scars. The right option for you will depend on the type of scars, their severity, and your skin type. Here are some of the most effective treatments:
1. Microneedling
Microneedling involves the use of tiny needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin. These injuries stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, which help improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of scars. Microneedling is particularly effective for rolling and boxcar scars. Multiple sessions may be needed to achieve optimal results.
2. Chemical Peels
Chemical peels use acids, such as glycolic or salicylic acid, to exfoliate the outer layers of the skin. This process encourages cell turnover, improves skin texture, and reduces the appearance of mild scars and discoloration. Chemical peels work best for shallow scars and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
3. Laser Resurfacing
Laser treatments, such as fractional CO2 lasers or erbium lasers, target scarred areas by removing damaged skin and promoting the growth of new, healthy skin. Laser resurfacing is ideal for moderate to severe acne scars and can produce dramatic results over several sessions.
4. Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers, made from hyaluronic acid or other biocompatible materials, are injected into depressed scars to restore volume and smooth the skin’s surface. While results are temporary (lasting six months to a year), fillers can provide an immediate improvement in the appearance of atrophic scars.
5. Subcision
Subcision is a minimally invasive procedure that involves breaking up fibrous bands beneath the skin that cause rolling scars. By releasing these bands, subcision lifts the scarred area and improves skin texture. This technique is often combined with other treatments for enhanced results.
6. Topical Treatments
Prescription creams and serums containing retinoids, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), or vitamin C can improve mild discoloration and skin texture over time. While they may not completely eliminate scars, they are a great addition to your skincare routine to maintain overall skin health.
7. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy
PRP therapy involves using your own blood to extract plasma rich in growth factors. When applied to the skin, PRP accelerates healing and improves the appearance of scars. This treatment is often combined with microneedling for enhanced results.
Preventing Acne Scars
Prevention is always better than treatment. Here are some tips to reduce your chances of developing acne scars:
- Treat acne promptly: Consult a dermatologist to manage active breakouts with appropriate treatments, such as topical medications or oral antibiotics.
- Resist the urge to pick: Picking at acne lesions can worsen inflammation and cause scarring. Avoid touching your face whenever possible.
- Wear sunscreen daily: UV exposure can darken scars and slow the healing process. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to protect your skin.
- Maintain a consistent skincare routine: Use gentle cleansers, non-comedogenic moisturizers, and products with active ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to keep your skin healthy.
Final Thoughts
So, will acne scars go away? While some scars, like post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, may fade naturally, others require professional intervention for noticeable improvement. The good news is that with the right combination of advanced treatments and at-home care, you can significantly reduce the appearance of acne scars and regain confidence in your skin.
At Raw Beauty Aesthetics, we offer a range of acne scar treatments tailored to your unique needs.
Our experienced practitioners will work with you to create a customized plan, combining the latest dermatological techniques to help you achieve smoother, clearer skin. Ready to take the next step? Schedule your consultation today to learn more about the treatment best suited for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get rid of acne scars permanently?
Many treatments can significantly reduce the appearance of scars, but results vary depending on the severity of the scars and the method used.
Are acne scar treatments safe?
Yes, when performed by a qualified professional, acne scar treatments are safe and effective. Side effects are typically minimal and temporary.
Can I combine acne scar treatments with other procedures?
Absolutely. Many patients benefit from combining treatments like microneedling with chemical peels or laser therapy for optimal results.
