Best Acne Scar Removal Methods NYC

Acne vulgaris, often referred to simply as acne, is by far the most common skin condition in the U.S. today. Whether you are a teenager or an adult, you have likely experienced some form of acne breakout, or perhaps you’re experiencing a breakout right now. Acne itself is a frustrating skin condition and, which we have all experienced, where pimples can lead to permanent acne scarring on the face and body. For many of us, acne scars are a source of discomfort and embarrassment, as these acne scars can be a reminder of frustrating blemishes of the past. Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renown expert at acne scar treatment, and incorporates the most effective and innovative technology in minimizing the appearance of acne scars.

There are several different types of acne scars which can form. Some patients experience acne scars that are atrophic or depressed scars, others develop acne scars which are red in color and others have hyperpigmented scars which manifest themselves as discoloration. The depressed scars show a loss of collagen within the scar itself. Acne scars can also form as hypertrophic scars, or keloids. These raised scars develop secondary to trauma to the skin, where the acne lesions once were, and the body’s attempt at healing these wounds through collagen production. Thankfully, the world of dermatology has developed a wide variety of treatments to both treat acne breakouts, but also reduce the appearance of acne scars on the face, back, and other areas of the body. Procedures like laser skin resurfacing, chemical peels, microneedling, microdermabrasion, fillers, and topical treatment options can all help to reduce the appearance of acne scars and help restore beautiful, clear skin.

If you’re struggling with the appearance of acne scars on the skin, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green is here to help. Dr. Green is an internationally renowned expert in the field of dermatology, specializing in non-invasive cosmetic treatment options for acne breakouts and acne scars, including topical skin care solutions, subcision with dermal fillers, TCA Cross, Fraxel® laser, microneedling with PRP, V-Beam® laser, Vivace®, radiofrequency lasers, and eMatrix® laser, among others. Dr. Green has over two and a half decades of experience providing the most cutting-edge treatments to her patients from around the globe of every skin type and skin tone. Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, and Super Doctors consistently identify Dr. Green as one of New York City’s best dermatologists, and she will work with you to create a customized treatment plan that incorporates the best skin care products and treatments to improve your skin texture, pigment, and the appearance of your acne scars.

eMatrix for acne scars

Do acne scars go away? What helps acne scars go away?

There are a variety of different acne scars that can all be treated through non-invasive procedures and topical treatments. For patients who experience post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, a mild discoloration that develops once an active acne breakout subsides, the removal process is quite simple. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is a temporary discoloration of the skin, and therefore can disappear on its own. Treatment for this form of acne scar typically involves a combination of topical treatments, over-the-counter skin care products, and prescription bleaching creams. However, in-office procedures like chemical peels, Cosmelan peels, and microneedling can vastly expedite the reduction of this type of pigment on the skin.

For patients with atrophic scars like icepick scars, boxcar scars, or rolling scars, the acne scar removal process may be more involved, as the skin typically requires additional collagen production and resurfacing in order to fully remove the scar. For atrophic scars, patients can typically rely on acne scar treatments such as laser skin resurfacing, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, microneedling, and dermal fillers to reduce the appearance of scars and improve overall skin texture. Atrophic scars are the most common form of acne scar that Dr. Green treats in her boutique Upper East Side dermatology office, as these types of acne scars are more prominent amongst current and former acne sufferers.

For patients who are seeking treatment for raised scars like keloids, Dr. Green has found great success at reducing scar tissue through the use of steroid injections, and rejuvenating the skin through a series of VBeam laser treatments. Additionally, further skin texture and skin tone improvements can be achieved for any type of acne scar through the use of a regular skin care routine that includes nourishing serums, hyaluronic acids, hydroxy acids, as well as a gentle cleanser, non-comedogenic moisturizer, and daily sunscreen of SPF 50 or higher.

What is an acne scar treatment?

An acne scar treatment is a cosmetic procedure that is used to improve the appearance of irregularities in skin tone and skin texture that are associated with acne scars. Acne scars form as a result of damage to the skin tissue from inflamed acne lesions. When the skin is unable to properly repair itself, the result is an acne scar. An acne scar treatment for atrophic acne scars, regardless of which modality is used, is designed to restore lost collagen and replenish volume to the skin in order to smooth the skin’s surface. Acne scar treatments, including laser treatment, microneedling, chemical peels, and subcision with dermal fillers, should be performed exclusively by an experienced and knowledgable board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green in NYC. Dr. Green has over 25 years of experience providing the best non-invasive acne scar treatments available to her patients from around the world, helping thousands achieve clear, smooth, healthy, and beautiful skin that lasts.

Acne Scar Removal with Laser Treatments

The eMatrix, Fraxel, Vivace, and V-Beam Lasers are some of the most effective lasers for improving the appearance of acne scars and redness. Laser resurfacing techniques, such as those used by the eMatrix, Fraxel, and V-Beam lasers, all rely on targeted energy to boost collagen production deep within the layers of the dermis. Skin resurfacing laser treatments have become a popular method to remove acne scars and are considered to be one of the most effective, safest methods for acne scar removal available.

With modern technology, laser resurfacing has become a popular method to not only reduce the appearance of atrophic scarring on the skin, but also to reduce the appearance of pigmentation and fine lines. Through targeted treatments, laser resurfacing can help to boost cell turnover on the surface of the skin while restoring collagen production in order to improve the health of the skin overall. This process can reduce the appearance of acne scars in as little as a single treatment for some patients. When relying on laser resurfacing for acne scars, it’s important to work with an expert dermatologist, like Dr. Michele Green in NYC, who can determine the best treatment for your scar type and skin type. Dr. Green has vast experience with laser skin resurfacing for a variety of patient needs, and can work with you to help determine the safest and most effective laser treatment for you.

The V-Beam laser is considered the “gold standard” for treating redness and red acne scars. Both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne conditions are proven to be reduced with VBeam laser treatments. The V-Beam laser treatment relies on pulsed dye light energy which is converted to heat when it reaches the skin. This energy is able to move through the surface of the skin and into the middle layer of the dermis. Through this method, only the targeted areas of the skin are affected, and this helps the V-Beam laser to treat issues of redness and discoloration on the skin. Additionally, the V-Beam laser is an effective treatment for a variety of skin types, sensitive skin, and atrophic and hypertrophic scars. With the V-Beam laser, a series of 4 to 6 treatments given at monthly intervals is usually all it takes to reduce the appearance of acne scars. Inflammatory acne lesions are reduced by an average of 85% and non-inflammatory lesions by approximately 70% – and the appearance of acne scars and skin redness is improved. The skin is rejuvenated and redness is reduced without any downtime or discomfort.

The Fraxel laser provides one of most effective treatment options for atrophic acne scars. Fraxel laser treatments rely on two different wavelengths to offer precise treatment of dark spots on the skin, as well as issues of skin texture such as acne scarring. In only 4 or 5 sessions with the Fraxel Dual laser, acne scars will be significantly improved. The procedure takes less than an hour, and side effects are typically incredibly mild, just slight inflammation or redness for the first 48 hours post-treatment. The benefit of fractionated technology is that only a fraction of the skin is resurfaced, which allows the skin to heal quickly without significant downtime. Since microscopic laser energy bursts are precisely delivered to the skin, the healthy skin between these tiny dots remains untouched, ensuring fast results after each laser treatment. 

The eMatrix RF laser is a great solution for skin resurfacing and acne scar removal. Since the eMatrix is a “color blind” laser, it is highly effective for all skin tones, including Asian, Mediterranean, Indian, and Hispanic skin types, all of which are very sensitive and prone to hyperpigmentation. The eMatrix works by heating the skin through radiofrequency technology and delivers heat deep within the dermis to remodel and form new collagen in the skin. This new collagen allows the skin to heal and reduce acne scars after just a few treatments. The eMatrix laser has minimal downtime, with some redness and peeling for up to 48 hours.

Chemical Peels for Acne Scars

Chemical peels are a highly successful method to reduce the appearance of acne scars. Chemical peels use the topical application of a peeling agent to peel away the topmost layer of the dermis, helping to remove dead skin cells and imperfections from the skin and revealing new, healthy skin underneath. Chemical peels can be used to treat unwanted pigment, active acne lesions, and acne scars. When it comes to treatment for acne, glycolic acid, trichloroacetic acid, salicylic acid, lactic acid, and alpha hydroxy acid can all be used in gentle concentrations. After a chemical peel, the skin will typically appear red and sensitive, but the healing process is brief and patients will typically experience smoother, restored skin in a matter of days.

Chemical peels are safe to use on all types of scars, and some formulations are particularly beneficial for specific types of acne scars. For example, for patients dealing with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, Dr. Green can combine a traditional chemical peel with various strength hydroquinones to brighten the skin. Through repeated chemical treatments paced four to six weeks apart, patients can reduce the appearance of deeper scars and discoloration. While undergoing chemical peel treatment, it’s important that patients use a daily sunscreen of SPF 50 or higher in order to prevent damage to healthy new skin.

Sculptra and Restylane – 3 months before and after

Trichloroacetic Acid Peels for Acne

For those with mild to moderate acne and acne scars, trichloroacetic acid peels quickly and gently exfoliate dead cells on the surface layer of the skin and prevent further acne outbreaks. Acne-prone skin usually has a slower rate of natural exfoliation, which provides an opportunity for clogged and enlarged pores to cause nodular acne, whiteheads and blackheads. Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) peels promote new skin cell growth and remove these dead and damaged cells, giving your skin a healthier glow.

TCA Cross for acne scars

The TCA Cross chemical peels process is an strong option to treat atrophic scars, particularly ice pick scars. In this process, a high TCA concentration of between 30-100% is applied directly to each acne scar with a fine needle. Though this process is effective in removing ice pick scars, it’s only recommended for patients with paler skin types. Patients with darker skin tones would risk discoloration (hyperpigmentation or a loss of pigment) when using this high level of trichloroacetic acid. For patients with darker skin tones, Dr. Green typically recommends using gentler chemical peel formulations, V-Beam or eMatrix laser treatment, dermal fillers, or microneedling, to treat acne scars.

Dermal Fillers for acne scars

Dermal fillers can often be a successful method to reduce the appearance of a depressed scar. Dermal fillers work to boost volume at and around the injection site by igniting collagen production. This in turn is able to reduce the appearance of atrophic acne scarring and create a smooth, youthful look to the skin. Dermal fillers are also effective at reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on the skin, creating pan-facial rejuvenation.

Dr. Green offers a variety of options for treatment with dermal fillers to make sure you’re getting the right solution to meet your appearance goals. These dermal fillers include hyaluronic acid fillers, which rely on a naturally occurring substance in the body, as well as poly-L-lactic acid and calcium hydroxylapatite dermal fillers, to boost new collagen growth and reduce the appearance of acne scars. These dermal fillers include:

• Belotero Balance — One of the newer hyaluronic acid fillers, Belotero Balance replaces lost hyaluronic acid (HA) caused by the natural aging process, filling in deep wrinkles. Its unique properties offer soft, even correction throughout the face.
• Juvederm — Dr. Green was one of the first doctors in New York to begin incorporating Juvederm treatments into her practice. This advanced formulation of hyaluronic acid (HA) can be used for deep lines and wrinkles, and results can last up to 12 months.
• Juvederm Voluma — Juvederm Voluma is designed to help restore youthful contours by plumping up the cheeks and chin where the aging process has caused volume loss. This advanced formulation of hyaluronic acid (HA) can last up to 18 months.
• Radiesse — Radiesse is an injectable filler made of calcium hydroxyapatite, which replenishes the lost collagen under your skin and promotes an increase of natural collagen production for lasting results.
• Restylane — Restylane is specially formulated to repopulate the loss of hyaluronic acid (HA) that is partially responsible for the appearance of aging and the development of wrinkles.
• Restylane Contour is one of Restylane’s newest hyaluronic acid dermal filler formulations, which contains advanced cross-linking technology to create a smooth skin texture, helping to correct imperfections such as acne scars. It’s a popular option for patients looking to restore volume in the cheeks and midface, with results that last up to a full year.
• Restylane Lyft — Restylane Lyft, formerly called Perlane, is an HA filler that adds fullness and volume in order to correct deep lines and wrinkles. However, since Perlane uses larger particles, this treatment is ideal for deeper injections, especially around the nasolabial folds.
• Sculptra — Sculptra is a safe, effective dermal filler that combines the immediate results of other fillers offered from our New York practice, while simultaneously boosting the skin’s natural collagen production to help results last even longer.

Microneedling for Acne Scars

Microneedling, a treatment that is also known as collagen induction therapy, is an excellent non-invasive option to treat acne scars. Microneedling uses tiny pinpricks to the skin to activate the wound-healing properties of the body, which can spark new collagen growth in the treatment area. This in turn rejuvenates the layers of skin in the treatment area and helps to heal the skin cells of the acne scar. Microneedling is also able to reverse the skin’s natural memory of acne scarring, which in turn can help to vastly reduce the appearance of acne scars.

Additionally, microneedling opens up micro-channels in the layers of the dermis, which can offer additional revitalization through the use of nourishing serums and growth factors. One treatment that takes advantage of these micro-channels is PRP Microneedling. This process uses a concentration of platelet-rich plasma to revitalize the skin. For a PRP treatment, a sample of the patient’s own blood is collected and spun in the centrifuge to separate the plasma from the red blood. The epidermal growth factors in the plasma accelerate and enhance the wound healing process that is stimulated through microneedling treatment. By using the growth factors and proteins in your own blood, Dr. Green is able to improve cell growth and restoration on the surface of the skin, helping to reduce your acne scars and create a hydrated, smooth skin texture.

Sculptra with Restylane and eMatrix 

RF Microneedling with Vivace for acne scar removal

Vivace RF Microneedling is an innovative treatment option that combines the application of radiofrequency energy with microneedling in order to maximize skin rejuvenation results. Through this combination, patients are able to receive the best of both treatments: collagen induction and wound-healing activation on the outermost layers of the epidermis, and targeted heating and collagen production in the deeper layers of the dermis. These two components of Vivace RF Microneedling are able to quickly and effectively treat acne scars with virtually no downtime, leaving the skin smooth and firm.

Microdermabrasion for acne scar removal

Microdermabrasion is a mild form of dermabrasion (removal of the outer layer of skin) that can reduce mild acne scars, fine lines and wrinkles, as well as stimulate collagen and elastin production with no recovery time. Our New York practice uses the latest in diamond microdermabrasion technology to reveal the healthy skin beneath the dry surface cells that dull your complexion. After microdermabrasion, the epidermis begins to rapidly produce new cells, and this deeper layer of skin thickens due to the resulting increase in collagen production. In effect, microdermabrasion damages the skin in order to promote healing and produce younger and more luminous skin.

For optimal results, Dr. Green recommends four to six microdermabrasion treatments every two to four weeks. Dr. Green combines microdermabrasion with her fabulous Oxygen facial to give you the best results. After the application of special serums and minerals, Oxygen is infused into the skin to give you an immediate glow. Over time, your skin will look younger and your skin tone will be more even.

Laser resurfacing acne scar treatment for patients with darker skin tones

It is important that the acne scar treatment options selected for your rejuvenation plan are safe and appropriate for your skin tone and skin type. Using a laser resurfacing device that is inappropriate for the skin tone of the patient can result in unwanted and dangerous side effects such as hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, and even scarring. In order to avoid unwanted side effects and achieve ideal cosmetic results, patients should always seek acne scar removal treatment from an experienced board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green in NYC, with the expertise to recommend and perform the procedures that are safe and effective for your skin type. For patients with darker skin tones, Dr. Green highly recommends the eMatrix laser to treat acne scars. The eMatrix laser is a gentle skin resurfacing laser that is safe to use on all skin types without increasing a patient’s risk of discoloration or hyperpigmentation. As it uses radiofrequency energy to heat the dermis, its process is not pigment-based, and it’s able to safely stimulate new collagen formation. Over a series of five eMatrix laser sessions spaced about a month apart, patients can experience full acne scar removal and improved skin texture.

Treating dark marks from acne

Many patients that suffer from acne breakouts experience residual dark spots on the surface of the skin that often remain long after their breakout subsides. This discoloration can appear as small, flat red or brown marks on the skin, and is commonly referred to as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Dark marks associated with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation may resolve on their own, but can take months or even years to fade away without any intervention. To expedite the resolution of the discoloration, Dr. Green typically recommends a combination of Cosmelan, chemical peels, and retinoids and hydroquinone creams, to brighten and smooth the skin. It’s good to note that the use of some intensive lasers can exacerbate issues of hyperpigmentation or melasma among patients with darker skin types, so Dr. Green recommends caution when engaging with laser resurfacing for dark spots. When you work with Dr. Green, she will make sure your treatment plan protects your skin from any additional unwanted pigmentation.

Will acne scars fade with laser resurfacing treatments?

One approach to treat acne scars is the use of the carbon dioxide (CO2) resurfacing laser, which is an ablative laser that can help to treat skin imperfections like warts, wrinkles, and acne scars. This ablative laser approach uses a high-energy light beam to create small injuries to the top layer of skin. This process engages the wound-healing properties of the body, helping with collagen and elastin production, and can help to remove atrophic scars on the skin. This process requires a short amount of downtime–one to two weeks in total–while the skin heals itself.

This skin resurfacing method is more intensive that a fractional laser treatment, such as the Fraxel Dual laser approach. Fraxel Dual is non-ablative, which means that it targets specific areas of the dermis without disturbing the surrounding skin of the treatment area. Non-ablative lasers tend to be the more popular than ablative laser resurfacing, as they require no downtime and patients can resume normal activity immediately post-treatment. However, either approach may be right for you, depending on your individual needs and goals.

Before & After Acne Treatment

How to Remove Scars from Acne Breakouts

When treating acne scars while patients are experiencing active acne lesions, it’s important to treat the active acne breakout to prevent any additional acne scars from forming. Treatments such as chemical peels, acne facials, Hydrafacials, and Blu-U Photodynamic Therapy for acne and acne scars can all help to simultaneously treat acne lesions and acne scars.

Acne facials use a combination of surface cleansing, microdermabrasion or glycolic acid application, and steam and extraction to reduce dead skin cells and unclog pores. After this process, a purifying mask filled with nourishing antioxidants and vitamin E is applied, followed by cleansing oxygen. This facial is able to treat acne lesions, reduce discoloration on the skin, and prevent the future likelihood of acne breakouts and acne scar development.

The Hydrafacial is a medical-grade, FDA-approved facial that is able to treat acne blemishes and acne scars. The three-step facial treatment uses an Active-4 cleanser, gentle acid peel, extraction process, and hydrating application of nourishing serums to clear clogged pores and remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. Through repeated Hydrafacial sessions, patients can experience revitalized, clearer skin, which can help smooth the skin and reduce future acne breakouts.

Blu-U Photodynamic Therapy is a blue light therapy that eliminates acne-causing bacteria, reduces oil production on the skin, and lessens irritation and redness caused by acne breakouts and acne scars. Blu-U treatment sessions are typically only 15 minute sessions twice a week, with virtually no downtime. Plus, Blu-U Photodynamic therapy can be used in tandem with other laser resurfacing treatments, such as the V-Beam laser, to optimize acne scar treatment.

Do acne scar creams work?

One of the best ways to reduce the appearance of acne scars is through the use of topical skin care products that can help to reinvigorate the look and feel of the skin, boosting cell turnover and in turn reducing the appearance of acne scars. In general, it’s best to look for active ingredients such as retinoids (Vitamin-A derivatives) and alpha hydroxy acids that increase the speed of cell turnover and help to form new collagen. Dr. Green’s MGSKINLABS offers an Essential Antioxidant Infusion that combines Retinol and other essential skin vitamins to reduce the appearance fine lines and scars.

Additionally, Dr. Green recommends pairing a retinol or retinoid at night with the use of a topical Vitamin-C serum during the day, such as MGSKINLABS Vita-C Serum, or Skinceutical’s Vitamin C Serum with Ferulic acid. These can be combined with a gentle cleanser, non-comedogenic moisturizer, and daily sunscreen to create a healthy skin routine that can help to heal and prevent future acne scars and breakouts.

Which scar removal cream is the best for discoloration?

When it comes to removing acne scars that have discoloration, it’s best to apply brightening serums, such as Vitamin-C based serums or prescription hydroquinone creams. Vitamin C is a powerhouse of a skincare ingredient when it comes to creating an even skin tone and texture. Packed with antioxidants, Vitamin C stimulates collagen production within the skin and accelerates the rate of skin cell renewal. The end result of consistent Vitamin C serum use is a clear, even, radiant complexion that lasts. Dr. Green’s MGSKINLABS, Inc. manufactures the highly concentrated Vita-C serum, that she often recommends to her patients struggling with the appearance of dark marks from acne and areas of skin discoloration or hyperpigmentation. Depending on the kinds of acne scars that you present with, Dr. Green may suggest the application of hydroquinone cream. Hydroquinone is a skin-lightening agent that is effective for patients who present with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from acne. Dr. Green will make her recommendations for acne scar removal creams and serums when you consult with her.

Additionally, one of the best ways to prevent acne scars from forming is to carefully treat breakouts as they develop. MGSKINLABS offers a three-step at-home acne fighting treatment to cleanse, exfoliate, and spot-treat acne lesions. If you are struggling with active acne and want to ensure that you prevent the development of acne scars, schedule a consultation with Dr. Green who can help you achieve clear, radiant, healthy skin.

What treats acne scars on the Back?

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, raised scars, such as keloids, are more common on the back and chest than elsewhere on the body. To treat raised scars, Dr. Green recommends the use of steroid injections, targeted chemical peels, or V-Beam laser treatment sessions. These treatments, either used individually or combined in a treatment plan, can all help to reduce the appearance of acne scars on the back.

Injecting a keloid scar with steroids shrinks it in size by breaking up the fibers of collagen within the scar, ultimately leading to a decrease in the amount of scar tissue present. Depending on the size of the keloid scars, multiple treatment sessions of injection with steroid may be required to effectively diminish their appearance.

The use of the V-Beam laser helps reduce the red pigment that typically accompanies keloid scars, helping to decrease the overall visibility of the scars. Similarly, chemical peels with trichloroacetic acid would be used to help remove discolored and dead skin cells from the surface of the skin that are contributing to a darkened, hyperpigmented appearance of the scar. Dr. Green will recommend the appropriate in-office cosmetic procedures for your keloid scars during your consultation with her in her private dermatology office in the Upper East Side neighborhood of Manhattan.

Face Acne Scar Removal

For acne scar removal on the face, Dr. Green usually recommends a combination of in-office and at-home skincare treatment to ensure the most effective treatment plan. For patients seeking acne scar removal on the face, it’s important to acknowledge the sensitive nature of facial tissue, which is why Dr. Green will almost always recommend non-invasive treatment methods over surgical procedures such as punch excision (full removal of the scar) or subcision (releasing the scar from its connection to the deeper layers of the skin). Non-invasive methods such as topical treatments, chemical peels, and microneedling are all highly effective at reducing and removing acne scars without lengthy downtime or a risk of further scarring.

What cures acne scars?

To enhance acne scar removal, there are simple daily skin regimens that can help to reduce acne scar appearance. Some scars, such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, can even go away on their own. However, for most patients, over-the-counter skin care products are unlikely to provide optimal results, and patients can benefit from a custom-tailored treatment plan that combines topical treatment with in-office procedures. Additionally, when it comes to natural remedies like apple cider vinegar or coconut oil, acne scars are unlikely to benefit, as collagen needs to be re-formed or newly produced in the treatment area in order to fully remove any acne scarring.

What is the best acne scar treatment?

When it comes to reducing the appearance of acne scars, there is no one best treatment to remove acne scarring, but there are highly effective, FDA-approved methods that Dr. Green offers at her boutique UES practice. For patients with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, patients may benefit from chemical peels and topical treatments. Patients with atrophic acne scars regularly benefit from microneedling, microdermabrasion, chemical peels, and laser treatments. If patents are concerned with hypertrophic scars, steroid injections combined with laser skin resurfacing can be highly effective. When you work with Dr. Green, she’ll be able to carefully examine your current skin condition to determine which treatments will be right for you.

Before and After – 6 months Accutane

Can a dermatologist remove acne scars?

A healthcare professional such as a board-certified dermatologist is the best person to consult with when it comes to removing acne scars. Dr. Green, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, is internationally renowned for her holistic approach to treating acne scars and helping her patients achieve a clear, smooth, healthy complexion that lasts. Although acne scars are permanent and cannot be completely resolved, their appearance can be greatly reduced through in-office treatments with Dr. Green so that they are no longer visible. Ideal treatments for removing acne scars, such as laser therapy, dermal filler injections, and microneedling, are best when performed by an experienced and knowledgeable board-certified dermatologist with the expertise to execute them in the safest, most effective manner.

There are many different types of acne scars that may develop, and since no two patients with acne will develop acne scars in the same way, acne scar removal treatment should be customized by an expert to produce the best cosmetic results. When you consult with Dr. Green in her boutique dermatology office in the Upper East Side of Manhattan, you will have the opportunity to develop a personalized treatment plan for your acne scar removal that incorporates procedures that will best benefit you and your specific concerns, whether it be hyperpigmentation, textural scars like skin depressions or raised keloids or a combination of texture and tone issues.

Is acne scar removal covered by insurance?

While acne treatment is considered a medical skin condition that is often covered by medical insurance, acne scar removal is generally considered to be cosmetic. Most insurance providers do not cover acne scar removal treatment for this reason. Before electing to have any treatment for your acne scars, first contact your individual insurance provider to determine your benefits and which, if any, acne scar removal procedures are covered.

How much does it cost to have acne scars removed?

The cost of your acne scar removal treatment will vary depending on the extent of the scarring, the treatment modalities that are utilized, the experience level of your provider, and the geographic location of the office in which you are treated. Generally, treatment with laser skin resurfacing technologies is more costly than having treatments like a chemical peel. The type and number of treatments that you need will be discussed with Dr. Green during your acne scar removal consultation, and at that time the approximate cost of your treatment will be determined.

It is important to be selective when seeking a provider for your acne scar removal treatment in order to avoid experiencing unwanted side effects like hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, or exacerbation of scarring. Treatment with an experienced board-certified dermatologist is usually more costly than treatment with an aesthetician in a medical spa setting, but it is the best way to guarantee that your results are satisfactory and your treatments are performed correctly.

How acne scars form

An acne scar is the result of an inflamed acne breakout when the affected area of the skin becomes engorged with excess oil, sebum, dead skin cells, and bacteria. As the affected pore swells, the bacteria also increases and causes damage to the skin tissue. A small area of damage causes a small scar but a deeper infection leads to a deep scar on your skin. Although your skin will try to repair itself, there are many times when the wound is too large, or your skin is too delicate. In these cases, there is not enough new collagen to repair the wound. The result of this lack of collagen is an atrophic, or depressed scar. The three main types of atrophic scars are boxcar scars, icepick scars, and rolling scars.

What do acne scars look like?

Acne scars can look like depressions in the skin’s surface where collagen has been lost as a result of tissue damage associated with inflammation from acne lesions. If you observe a dark spot or red spot on the skin after having a breakout that is flat and smooth with the rest of the skin texture, this is post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation rather than a true acne scar. The most common acne scars patients develop are icepick scars, rolling scars, and boxcar scars.

Icepick scars are deep and narrow in appearance. Often, ice pick scars resemble enlarged pores, and the term “ice pick” is due to the fact that the skin appears as if it has been pierced by a sharp tool, like an ice pick. These scars extend deep into the dermal layers of skin and are often caused by severe inflammation associated with cystic or nodular acne lesions. An infected, inflamed cyst causes loss of skin tissue, resulting in perforation of the skin. This often causes the appearance of a deep and narrow hole that is characteristic of an icepick scar.

Rolling Scars have the appearance of rolling across the skin in a wave-like manner. Rolling scars do not have sharply defined borders. When a patient presents with rolling scars, the skin itself appears to have a wavy and rough-looking surface. This type of acne scar is formed due to fibrous bands of tissue developing between the skin and the subcutaneous tissue underneath the skin. The fibrous bands pull down on the epidermis, binding it to the subcutaneous tissue deep within the skin. The impact of the epidermis being pulled down is what creates the rolling, wavy appearance of the skin.

Boxcar Scars are characterized by a depression in the skin that forms as a result of collagen loss. This loss of collagen frequently results in a sunken appearance of the skin due to a lack of tissue support. Boxcar scars can be either superficial or deep, depending on the amount of skin atrophy caused by inflamed and infected acne lesions. Boxcar scars are round or oval-shaped in appearance and have deep vertical sides. Boxcar scars are wider in appearance than ice pick scars.

10 months before and after acne treatment

Is acne scarring permanent? When do acne scars go away?

Unfortunately, acne scars are permanent. Once the tissue has sustained such damage, the skin is unable to repair the wound completely. The permanence of acne scars is one of the reasons why it is essential to treat acne breakouts as soon as possible. Reducing the appearance of acne scars can often be more difficult than resolving a breakout of acne. Although the tissue can not be completely restored to its original state, the look of acne scars can be so significantly reduced through in-office treatments with Dr. Green that they aren’t noticeable. The appearance of acne scars diminishes greatly when you work with a board-certified dermatologist to treat them. If you are struggling with the appearance of acne scars or are still trying to get your acne under control once and for all, Dr. Green is here to help.

Does acne scar treatment work? What can help acne scars?

Acne scar treatment does work when you have your procedures performed by an experienced medical professional, such as board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green in New York City. Treating acne scars effectively, and safely, requires extensive knowledge of the anatomy of the different types of acne scars as well as the qualities, benefits, and limitations of various treatment modalities. Dr. Green is recognized around the world for her holistic approach to acne scar treatment and her ability to provide patients with smooth, clear, healthy, and radiant skin that lasts.

With over 25 years of experience providing the best cosmetic treatments for some of the most discerning men and women around the globe, Dr. Green is considered an authority in the field of cosmetic dermatology. Dr. Green’s dedication to her patients and to her practice is well reflected by the fact that she is consistently voted as one of New York’s best dermatologists by Castle Connolly, Super Doctors, and New York Magazine. To guarantee that your acne scar treatment works for you, the types of acne scars you have, and your specific concerns, schedule a consultation with Dr. Green in New York City.

What removes acne scars?

Punch grafting is an acne scar removal treatment that is often recommended for ice-pick scars. During the procedure, a punch tool is used to physically remove the acne scar from the skin. A plug of skin is taken from another area of the body, usually behind the ear, and used to fill the area where the acne scar was excised. Punch grafting replaces the acne scar with a new scar that is substantially smaller in size, lighter in color, and less noticeable than the original scar. This acne scar removal treatment is typically reserved for very deep ice pick scars that may be more difficult to treat with other non-invasive treatment options such as laser resurfacing treatments or microneedling. When you consult with Dr. Michele Green in NYC for your acne scar removal, she will work with you to create a customized treatment plan that is catered to your unique skin needs and cosmetic goals, leaving you with a smooth, clear, healthy complexion that lasts.

How do I get rid of acne scars today?

Acne scars can be a devastating reminder of a bothersome breakout, often inducing feelings of self-consciousness and low self-esteem. If you’re frustrated by the appearance of acne scars, there are solutions available that can help to greatly reduce them and help restore your self-confidence. Whether you are struggling with atrophic scars, hypertrophic scars, or skin discoloration due to previous breakouts, Dr. Green can work with you to develop a customized acne scar removal treatment plan to help you look and feel like the best version of yourself.

Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned authority in the field of cosmetic dermatology, with over two and a half decades of experience providing the best cosmetic treatment options available, including those for reducing the appearance of acne scars. Dr. Green takes pride in the relationships that she develops with her patients and understands that each individual requires a unique treatment approach in order to best address their specific skin concerns and achieve their cosmetic goals. For her dedication to her patients and expertise, Dr. Green is consistently voted one of New York’s best dermatologists by Super Doctors, Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, and The New York Times. Working with Dr. Green is the fastest, easiest, and most effective way to reduce your acne scars and achieve clear, smooth, beautiful skin that lasts. Please call our NYC-based office today at 212-535-3088 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and develop your custom treatment plan with Dr. Michele S. Green.