Best Acne Scar Removal Methods

Acne scars signify permanent damage to the skin tissue caused by inflammation from acne lesions and breakouts. This inflammation initiates the natural wound-healing process, which involves the production of new collagen. No two patients develop acne scars in the same manner, and different types of scars require various treatment strategies. An acne scar can be atrophic or depressed if insufficient collagen is produced, or it can be hypertrophic or raised if excessive collagen is generated. Patients may also experience dark spots known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation at the site of the lesion; however, these spots are not classified as true acne scars. Consulting an expert dermatologist, such as board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green in New York City, is crucial to ensure you receive optimal acne scar treatment tailored to your specific scars and skin concerns.

Many of the best treatment options for reducing the appearance of acne scars work by stimulating new collagen production to achieve smoother skin texture or targeting discoloration to create a more radiant and even skin tone. A wide array of non-invasive cosmetic procedures is available for acne scar removal and treatment, including laser resurfacing, subcision with dermal fillers, chemical peels, and microneedling. These procedures are straightforward and are associated with minimal downtime or side effects, making them excellent options for acne scar removal. Typically, a customized combination of acne scar treatments yields the best results, as patients often have a mix of different types of acne scars on their skin. Whether you are struggling with atrophic scars, hypertrophic scars, or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from previous breakouts, Dr. Green can work with you to develop a customized acne scar treatment plan to help you look and feel like your best self.

Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned board-certified dermatologist with over 25 years of experience providing some of the world’s most discerning individuals with the best non-invasive treatment options, including reducing the appearance of acne scars. Regarding facial rejuvenation, Dr. Green takes a holistic approach and adopts a less-is-more philosophy, customizing each patient’s acne scar treatment plan to incorporate a combination of in-office treatment options, topical treatments, and specially formulated skin care products tailored to their individual needs. She is consistently recognized as one of New York’s top dermatologists by New York Magazine, Super Doctors, The New York Times, and Castle Connolly for her dedication to her patients and expertise. When you consult with Dr. Green about acne scar treatment at her private, boutique dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood, she will collaborate with you to create an acne scar treatment plan that helps you achieve a clear, smooth, healthy, beautiful complexion that lasts.

eMatrix for acne scars

What are acne scars?

Acne scars are a visible reminder of past inflammatory acne lesions on the skin. These scars form when the inflammation linked to acne lesions causes irreparable damage to the underlying skin tissue. The skin’s natural wound-healing process is activated in response to inflammation by producing new collagen, a protein that provides structural support and contributes to a firm, smooth skin texture. If too little collagen is produced during healing, depressed or atrophic scars develop. Conversely, if too much collagen is produced, raised scars, either hypertrophic or keloid, can form. Unlike typical hypertrophic scars, keloidal scar tissue continues to grow beyond the boundaries of the initial trauma even after the skin has healed.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, acne affects up to 50 million Americans each year, and it is impossible to predict whether an acne breakout will lead to scars. A lesion can lead to scarring. Picking at or popping active pimples can worsen inflammation, increasing the risk of scarring. Acne scars are often more challenging to treat than the initial breakouts, which is why consulting a board-certified dermatologist, like Dr. Green, is always recommended for their treatment. Dr. Green is internationally renowned for her holistic approach to addressing acne scars, helping her patients achieve a lasting, clear, smooth, and healthy complexion. While acne scars serve as a permanent reminder of damage and cannot be eliminated, their appearance can be significantly reduced through in-office treatment options, making them less noticeable. Ideal treatments for acne scars, such as laser treatments, light therapy, dermal filler injections, chemical peels, and microneedling, yield the best results when performed by an experienced and knowledgeable board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Green, who has the expertise to carry them out safely and effectively.

What are the different types of acne scars?

Atrophic acne scars

Atrophic scars are the most common type of acne scars, characterized by depressions or indentations on the skin’s surface. These scars form when insufficient collagen is produced during the skin’s natural healing process. Rolling, boxcar, and ice-pick scars fall into the broader category of atrophic scars. Rolling scars have less defined borders and appear to ripple across the skin’s surface in a wave-like manner. Boxcar scars are round or oval-shaped with deep vertical edges. Ice-pick scars are deep, narrow, and V-shaped, often resembling large pores.

Hypertrophic acne scars

Hypertrophic scars are thick, firm, raised scars that develop when the skin’s natural wound-healing response produces excessive new collagen. These raised acne scars often arise from deep cysts or nodules and typically affect areas such as the jawline, chest, back, and shoulders.

Keloids

Keloids are a specific type of raised scar. Unlike other hypertrophic scars, keloidal scar tissue can continue to grow beyond the boundaries of the initial trauma even after the skin heals.

What is post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation?

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) refers to dark spots on the skin that persist after an acne lesion has healed. PIH occurs due to overproduction of pigment during the skin’s wound-healing process. Depending on the patient’s skin tone, the discoloration can appear as brown, black, red, pink, or purple. Unlike true acne scars, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is a temporary form of skin discoloration that can fade on its own over time. Without intervention, it can take months or even years for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation to resolve. The healing process can be expedited with topical ingredients such as vitamin C, retinoids, and hydroquinone, or through non-invasive treatment options like chemical peels, laser therapy, and microneedling.

Will acne scars go away on their own?

Most acne scars do not resolve on their own. Acne scars are a visible indication of permanent skin tissue damage resulting from inflammation caused by acne lesions. Once the tissue has sustained such damage, the skin is unable to completely repair the wound. Reducing the appearance of acne scars can often be more complicated than resolving an acne breakout; therefore, it is essential to treat acne lesions and breakouts promptly. Depending on the cause of your acne, a dermatologist may recommend a combination of topical treatments, oral medications, or in-office treatment options, such as medical-grade facials, extractions, or laser therapy. If acne scars form, their appearance can be significantly reduced with a variety of in-office treatment options available at DrGreen’s’s private dermatology office.

What do dermatologists do for acne scars?

Board-certified dermatologists, such as Dr. Michele Green, utilize various non-invasive cosmetic procedures, including laser treatments, chemical peels, subcision with dermal fillers, and microneedling, to treat acne scars. Since many patients with acne scarring exhibit multiple scar types, most benefit from a combination treatment approach. The optimal mix of acne scar treatments ultimately depends on the specific types of scars, the patient’s skin tone, and their skin type. Seeking treatment from an experienced, board-certified dermatologist is crucial to ensure safety and efficacy while minimizing the risk of unwanted side effects. Dr. Michele Green, based in New York, is a board-certified dermatologist with over 25 years of experience providing men and women worldwide with the best non-invasive acne scar treatment options that target post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, atrophic scars, or hypertrophic scars. When you consult with Dr. Green, you will have the opportunity to develop a personalized treatment plan for your acne scars that includes options best suited to address your specific concerns and scars, resulting in optimal cosmetic results.

VBeam laser treatment

The VBeam laser is the gold standard for effectively eliminating various shades of red pigment from the skin, including those associated with acne scars, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, vascular lesions, broken capillaries, stretch marks, rosacea, and active acne breakouts. This pulsed dye laser operates at a wavelength that specifically targets red pigment while leaving the surrounding skin tissue unharmed. It features a dynamic cooling device that releases bursts of cool air before each pulse, enhancing patient comfort during treatment. Patients appreciate that there is no downtime, allowing them to resume their normal daily activities immediately after treatment and schedule subsequent sessions with ease. The side effects are minimal, typically limited to mild swelling and redness, which resolve shortly after treatment. Most patients require 4 to 6 VBeam laser treatments, spaced about four weeks apart, to reduce the appearance of acne scars or breakouts.

Fraxel laser

The Fraxel Dual laser is a fractional laser treatment often referred to as the “magic eraser” by Dr. Green because of its unique ability to target a wide range of skin concerns. The 1550nm wavelength setting addresses texture irregularities, including acne scars, fine lines, wrinkles, enlarged pores, and stretch marks, while the 1927nm wavelength setting tackles sun damage, sun spots, and discoloration. As a non-ablative laser, Fraxel leaves the top layer of skin intact while stimulating the production of new collagen and elastin in the dermis. Its use of fractionated energy means that it treats portions of the skin at a time, allowing for significantly reduced downtime after treatment. When addressing acne scars and textural issues, patients may experience mild redness and swelling that typically resolve within 48 hours of treatment. The number of Fraxel laser treatment sessions required for each patient depends on the initial severity of their acne scars, with most requiring an average of 3 to 6 sessions.

eMatrix Sublative laser

The eMatrix laser utilizes radiofrequency energy to stimulate the production of new collagen in the dermal layers of the skin, resulting in a smoother skin texture and more even skin tone. This laser treatment is safe and effective for patients of all skin tones and types, including those with darker skin tones. Minimal downtime is associated with eMatrix, with the most common side effects being mild redness, swelling, and tenderness in the treatment area for 48 hours. Most patients need 4 to 6 eMatrix laser treatment sessions, each spaced four weeks apart, to reduce the appearance of their acne scars. However, patients with more severe acne scarring may need additional laser treatment sessions.

Clear + Brilliant Laser

The Clear + Brilliant laser, also known as the “mini Fraxel,” is a gentle laser treatment that is both safe and effective for all skin tones and types. This laser treatment targets superficial to moderate acne scarring, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, fine lines, wrinkles, enlarged pores, and uneven skin texture and tone. Clear + Brilliant utilizes fractionated energy to stimulate new collagen production in the treatment area, resulting in smoother, brighter, and healthier-looking skin with minimal downtime. Additionally, Clear + Brilliant laser treatment enhances the skin’s permeability to topical serums, promoting better absorption and increased effectiveness of skincare ingredients, such as vitamin C. Most patients require four to six Clear + Brilliant laser treatments, each spaced three to four weeks apart, to achieve optimal results.

Subcision with dermal fillers

Subcision is a minimally invasive dermatologic surgical procedure used to treat atrophic scars. During subcision, a needle punctures the skin to break up the fibrotic strands of scar tissue that tether the top layers of skin to the underlying tissue. Once these connections are disrupted and the fibrotic bands of scar tissue are released, new collagen production is stimulated in the treated area, resulting in a gradual improvement to a smoother, more even skin texture. Dr. Green performs subcision in conjunction with dermal filler injections to simultaneously restore lost volume in the area and achieve a smoother skin texture.

Dr. Green offers a variety of dermal fillers for treating acne scars, including Juvederm, Restylane, and Sculptra. Juvederm and Restylane are fillers made from hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the body that provides immediate volume restoration to the treated area. These fillers typically last between six and twelve months, depending on the specific product used. Sculptra, a distinctive dermal filler composed of poly-L-lactic acid, is a liquid injectable that stimulates the production of new collagen in the treatment area. It gradually restores lost volume and improves skin texture. After a short series of Sculptra treatments, the cosmetic results can last for up to two years or even longer.

Chemical peels

A chemical peel is a non-invasive skin resurfacing treatment that can improve the appearance of acne scars, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and active acne. Chemical peels often include ingredients such as glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or lactic acid to exfoliate the skin. Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) is a commonly used exfoliant in chemical peels. When applied topically to the skin, TCA accelerates skin cell renewal, stimulates new collagen production, enhances the appearance of acne scars, unclogs pores, and creates a more even texture and tone. TCA peels are available in various strengths, and the peel selected for your rejuvenation treatment will depend on your skin type, skin tone, and specific concerns being addressed. Most patients require a series of chemical peel treatments, spaced three to four weeks apart, to effectively treat acne scars.

Sculptra with Restylane and eMatrix 

TCA cross for acne scars

The TCA Cross chemical peel process aims to reduce the appearance of ice-pick scars. “Cross” is an acronym for the chemical reconstruction of skin scars method. During this procedure, a fine tool, like a toothpick, is used to apply a high concentration of TCA, ranging from 70% to 100%, directly to each acne scar. This treatment enhances skin texture by stimulating the production of new collagen. A series of 3 to 5 sessions, spaced 6 to 8 weeks apart, is typically required for optimal cosmetic results. While this process effectively eliminates deeper scars such as ice-pick scars, it is only recommended for patients with lighter skin types. Individuals with darker skin tones are more prone to unwanted side effects, such as discoloration (hyperpigmentation or loss of pigment), when using this high concentration of trichloroacetic acid.

Mesopeels

Mesopeels are chemical peels designed to treat discoloration and pigmentation, including post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. They are formulated with exfoliating and skin-lightening agents such as tranexamic acid, azelaic acid, and kojic acid, which help reduce pigmentation, regulate melanocyte activity, and revitalize the skin’s surface. Mesopeels are gentle and safe for all skin types and tones, including those with darker complexions. Thanks to their mild nature, Mesopeels can be safely applied to various areas of the body, including the face, chest, back, and inner thighs. Typically, four to six treatments spaced one month apart are required to achieve optimal reduction in post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Cosmelan peel

A Cosmelan peel is a medical-grade chemical peel designed to treat and manage hyperpigmentation. The Cosmelan peel works on a cellular level to not only eliminate excess pigmentation but also inhibit tyrosinase activity, the enzyme essential for melanin production. Cosmelan is an excellent treatment option for reducing moderate to severe post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation resulting from old acne, melasma, sun damage-induced discoloration, and other types of hyperpigmentation. The first step of the Cosmelan process involves applying the Cosmelan 1 mask, as recommended by Dr. Green. The mask is worn for a specific duration, determined by Dr. Green, based on the patient’s unique skin type, tone, and severity of hyperpigmentation. Patients then remove the mask at home with a gentle cleanser. The second step of the Cosmelan process involves using specially formulated depigmenting skincare products, including Cosmelan 2 cream, to maintain and enhance the treatment’s results.

Microneedling treatment for acne scars

Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, is a remarkable non-invasive treatment option for reducing the appearance of acne scars. During a microneedling procedure, Dr. Green glides a handheld microneedling device across the skin’s surface in the treatment area. The microneedling device features tiny needles that create thousands of micro-channels in the skin, initiating the healing process and stimulating gradual collagen production. The result is a naturally smoother, brighter, and healthier complexion, along with a visible reduction in acne scars. As a minimally invasive procedure, microneedling involves minimal downtime and has few potential side effects. It is also a safe and effective treatment option for patients of all skin types and tones. Most patients require three to six microneedling sessions to achieve optimal results.

The micro-channels created in the skin during microneedling enhance the skin’s permeability, maximizing the benefits of applied topical serums. Patients looking to treat unwanted pigmentation and correct an uneven skin tone can benefit from combining their microneedling treatment with a topical depigmenting serum. The depigmenting serum used in Dr. Michele Green’s private dermatology office is a unique blend of powerful yet gentle skin-brightening agents that target melanocyte activity in the skin. Patients can also enhance their microneedling procedure with platelet-rich plasma (PRP). PRP is a serum rich in epidermal growth factors that accelerates and enhances the wound healing process, promoting even more regeneration at the cellular level. PRP is derived from a sample of the patient’s blood, ensuring it is 100% safe to include in the microneedling procedure for facial rejuvenation.

Vivace RF microneedling

Vivace radiofrequency (RF) microneedling is an innovative treatment option that combines radiofrequency energy with microneedling to boost collagen production and achieve optimal skin rejuvenation results. Vivace features a robotic motor that delivers precise, controlled pulses along with gold-tipped, insulated microneedles, ensuring a pain-free experience. The microneedling component stimulates collagen synthesis in the epidermis, while the radiofrequency energy simultaneously applies heat to the dermis, further enhancing collagen production. Multiple treatments, each spaced four weeks apart, are necessary to achieve the best results.

Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is a gentler form of dermabrasion treatment that utilizes a specialized handpiece to gently remove the top layer of skin, thereby eliminating impurities and dead skin cells to make way for healthy, new skin cells. Two popular types of microdermabrasion are crystal and diamond microdermabrasion. Crystal microdermabrasion utilizes a handpiece that emits tiny crystals, typically aluminum oxide or sodium bicarbonate, to gently exfoliate the outer layer of the skin. In contrast, diamond microdermabrasion utilizes a diamond-tipped handpiece that is applied directly to the skin to exfoliate the superficial layers gently. Following microdermabrasion, the epidermis rapidly produces new cells, and this deeper layer of skin thickens due to the resulting increase in collagen production.

Punch excision

Punch excision is a technique used for the removal of deep, narrow ice pick scars. During punch excision, a punch tool is utilized to extract scar tissue surgically, and the resultant wound is closed with fine sutures. This procedure generally results in slight scarring for acne scar revision, though the scars tend to be smaller, softer, and less noticeable than the original atrophic scars. The scar that results from punch excision typically resembles a small line rather than a depression.

Intralesional cortisone injections for hypertrophic scars

A popular in-office treatment option for reducing the appearance of keloids and hypertrophic scars is corticosteroid injections, commonly referred to as steroid injections. These injections are administered directly into the affected area to minimize scar size without causing systemic side effects. Small amounts of corticosteroid help lessen the length and thickness of hypertrophic and keloid scars, enhancing their appearance and making them smaller and flatter.

What topical skincare products can treat acne scars?

Targeted topical skincare products can be highly effective in treating acne scars when used in conjunction with in-office treatments, such as lasers, chemical peels, and dermal fillers. Each person is unique, and the ideal skincare products will depend on their skin type, skin tone, and the severity of their acne scars. Dr. Green’s proprietary skincare line, MGSKINLABs, features serums and creams infused with active, effective skincare ingredients designed to address a variety of skin concerns, including acne scars, textural issues, aging, and hyperpigmentation. During your consultation with Dr. Green, she will assess your skin and create a personalized skincare plan to achieve a clear, radiant complexion.

Retinol and retinoids are derivatives of vitamin A that enhance collagen production and accelerate skin cell renewal, resulting in a smoother, more even-toned complexion. Topical retinols are available over-the-counter, while retinoids require a prescription from a board-certified dermatologist. The Essential Antioxidant Infusion from MGSKINLABS is an excellent retinol that contains vitamin A, along with other essential nutrients and vitamins, to rejuvenate the skin and promote a smoother texture. Retinoids, such as tretinoin or Retin-A, can be prescribed for patients seeking a stronger topical option. When using any retinol or retinoid, it is essential to apply proper sun protection, as these ingredients can increase the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight.

Vitamin C is a highly effective topical skincare ingredient that boosts collagen production in the skin, accelerates skin cell renewal, produces an overall brightening effect, and offers antioxidant protection against harmful free radicals in the environment. Adding Vitamin C to your skincare routine is ideal if you’re dealing with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or acne scars that are either textural or pigmented. Dr. Green’s Vita-C Serum from her MGSKINLABS line features a high concentration of vitamin C serum to correct skin tone and texture issues and rejuvenate the skin.

Other popular topical ingredients for treating post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation include kojic acid, azelaic acid, and tranexamic acid. These skin-lightening ingredients work to inhibit tyrosinase activity and reduce the production of excess melanin in the skin. The Skin Brightening Cream from MGSKINLABs  contains kojic acid and fruit extracts to help lighten skin pigmentation, resulting in a more even-toned complexion.

Patients with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation may find hydroquinone beneficial, a prescription-strength skin-lightening agent. A board-certified healthcare professional must supervise patients using hydroquinone, as it is not recommended for long-term use. Proper sun protection is crucial when using hydroquinone, as the product increases the skin’s sensitivity to the sun.

Sunscreen is undoubtedly one of the most crucial components of any basic skincare regimen. It is essential for protecting against the development of skin cancer and premature signs of aging. Excessive sun exposure can damage collagen fibers and trigger melanocyte activity, worsening the appearance of acne scars and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Moreover, using sunscreen during laser treatments and chemical peels is vital to reduce the risk of unwanted side effects after treatment and to maintain the treatment’s effectiveness. Patients should apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 50 for protection against UVA and UVB rays. Sunscreen must be used daily, regardless of weather conditions, skin type, or skin tone. Dr. Green suggests layering a physical sunscreen over a chemical one to ensure optimal sun protection. The Hydrating SPF 50 from MGSKINLABs contains zinc oxide, as well as hyaluronic acid and lactic acid, to protect against harmful UV rays while hydrating and softening the skin.

What is the most effective procedure for treating acne scars?

The best way to determine which cosmetic procedure is most effective for treating your type of acne scars is to consult an experienced, board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green in New York City. It is crucial to seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional regarding acne scar treatment, as some options may not be suitable for all skin tones or types. For example, using the wrong laser treatment can lead to side effects such as hypopigmentation, hyperpigmentation, burning, or scarring. Dr. Green is an internationally recognized expert in cosmetic dermatology, with over 25 years of experience providing cutting-edge scar treatments to some of the world’s most renowned individuals. To ensure safety, efficacy, and optimal results, Dr. Green will assess your skin condition, thoroughly review your medical history, and evaluate any previous cosmetic scar treatments you may have undergone. Based on her evaluation of the location and type of scarring, as well as your skin tone and type, Dr. Green will develop a personalized scar treatment plan tailored to your unique needs and aesthetic goals.

Can you 100% remove acne scars?

Unfortunately, there is no method to completely remove acne scars. Acne scars result from permanent damage to the skin tissue caused by inflammation associated with acne lesions. Fortunately, various non-invasive treatment options can help minimize the appearance of acne scars, resulting in a smoother, healthier, and clearer complexion. Popular non-invasive acne scar treatments include laser resurfacing, chemical peels, microneedling, steroid injections, and subcision with dermal fillers. These options offer safe and effective solutions for treating acne scars, providing long-lasting results. The most effective way to create an acne scar treatment plan is to consult an experienced, board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green in New York City. Dr. Green has over 25 years of experience in providing acne and acne scar treatments to men and women worldwide and will design a treatment protocol that helps you look and feel your best.

10 months before and after acne treatment

FAQs about Acne Scar Treatments

Why are acne scars hard to remove?

Acne scars are difficult to reduce because they represent permanent changes in the skin’s collagen levels. The skin’s natural wound-healing process is activated in response to an acne lesion or breakout. During this natural healing process, new collagen production is stimulated, resulting in a firm and smooth skin texture. When insufficient collagen is formed in response to skin inflammation, depressed acne scars result. Conversely, excessive collagen formation leads to hypertrophic scars and keloids. Although non-invasive cosmetic treatments can significantly reduce the appearance of acne scars, the skin’s composition remains permanently altered and cannot be reversed. Therefore, preventing acne scars is the best strategy, making prompt evaluation and treatment of active acne breakouts critical. When you consult board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green at her NYC office, she will gather a thorough medical history, physically assess your skin condition, and evaluate recent blood work to create a customized acne and acne scar treatment plan that results in a clear, lasting complexion and best prevents the formation of acne scars.

Which acne scar is hardest to treat?

Ice pick scars are often among the most challenging types of acne scars to treat. These atrophic scars are characterized by narrow, deep, V-shaped depressions in the skin. Popular treatment options for ice pick scars include laser skin resurfacing treatments, such as Fraxel and eMatrix, as well as chemical peels. Treating ice pick scars typically requires a combination approach, and may involve more sessions than other types of acne scarring. During your consultation with Dr. Green in her private dermatology office on the Upper East Side, she will evaluate your scarring and create a personalized acne scar treatment plan tailored to your skin type and tone.

Does microneedling work for acne scars?

Yes! Microneedling is an excellent treatment option for reducing depressed acne scars and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation on the skin’s surface. Microneedling triggers the wound healing process in the epidermal layer of the skin, leading to new collagen production and a smoother, more even-toned complexion. Since the micro-channels created during the procedure enhance the skin’s permeability, topical products can be applied during treatment to maximize their cosmetic results. Patients experiencing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation can use a depigmentation serum rich in active skin-lightening ingredients to diminish pigmentation and discoloration. They can also incorporate platelet-rich plasma (PRP), a serum derived from the patient’s blood that is rich in growth factors and proteins, into the microneedling treatment to accelerate tissue healing and regeneration.

Do laser resurfacing treatments work for acne scars?

With modern technology, laser resurfacing has become a popular method for reducing the appearance of atrophic scars and addressing skin issues related to sun damage and aging, including discoloration, enlarged pores, and fine lines. It is considered one of the most effective treatments for reducing the appearance of acne scars. Through targeted procedures, laser resurfacing can boost cell turnover in the skin’s surface while restoring collagen production to enhance skin health. When considering laser resurfacing for scars, it’s essential to work with an experienced dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green in NYC, who can tailor the best treatment plan to your scar and skin type. Dr. Green has extensive experience with laser skin resurfacing for various patient needs and can help determine the safest and most effective laser treatment for you.

What is the best laser treatment for acne scar removal?

Ultimately, the best laser treatment for acne scar removal depends on the type and pigment of the scars, as well as the patient’s skin tone. Dr. Green offers some of the most advanced laser treatments for reducing the appearance of acne scars and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, including the Fraxel, eMatrix, and VBeam lasers. Patients with more textural acne scars may choose Fraxel or eMatrix, while those with PIH from old acne may be better suited for the VBeam laser. During your initial consultation with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office in NYC, she will physically examine your skin and recommend the most appropriate laser treatment for your skin type and scars.

What is the best laser treatment for patients with darker skin tones?

Some laser resurfacing treatments are not suitable for patients with darker skin tones, as their use can lead to poor cosmetic results and potentially dangerous side effects, including skin discoloration, burning, and scarring. To avoid unwanted side effects and ensure optimal results for skin rejuvenation, consult an experienced, knowledgeable, and board-certified dermatologist for the treatment of acne scars. Dr. Green is a board-certified dermatologist in New York City with over 25 years of experience treating men and women from around the globe with the most innovative techniques and cutting-edge treatment options. To safely treat acne scars in patients with darker skin, Dr. Green highly recommends the eMatrix laser treatment, chemical peels, microneedling, and subcision with dermal fillers. During your consultation at her private dermatology practice in Manhattan’s Upper East Side, she will develop a personalized acne scar treatment plan for you, depending on your skin condition and particular needs and goals.

What is the fastest treatment for acne scars?

Most acne scar treatments are not quick; they typically involve lasers, chemical peels, or microneedling devices to stimulate collagen production and smooth the appearance of scars, resulting in a more even texture. These procedures work gradually and often require multiple sessions, spaced approximately one month apart, to achieve optimal results. Subcision with hyaluronic acid dermal fillers can provide immediate improvements; however, it’s not a method that is suitable for all types of scars. It’s crucial to select the most appropriate treatment for your specific scars and skin type, regardless of how fast or slow the process may be.

Does vitamin C help with acne scars?

Yes! Vitamin C is a powerful skincare ingredient that promotes an even skin tone and texture. Rich in antioxidants, Vitamin C boosts collagen production and speeds up skin cell renewal. Regular use of a vitamin C serum can lead to a clear, balanced, and radiant complexion. Dr. Green’s MGSKINLABS, Inc. produces a highly concentrated Vita-C Serum, which she often recommends to patients dealing with dark spots from acne and areas of skin discoloration or hyperpigmentation.

Can retinol remove acne scars?

One of the best ways to naturally reduce the appearance of acne scars is through retinol usage, which revives the skin’s health and appearance by stimulating new collagen production and boosting cell tissue. Dr. Green’s MGSKINLABs offers an Essential Antioxidant Infusion that combines retinol and other vital vitamins that are critical to reducing the appearance of issues with skin texture, including fine lines, enlarged pores, and acne scars.

Can salicylic acid remove acne scars?

Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid that gently exfoliates the skin by removing dead skin cells, excess oil, dirt, and other impurities from pores. It is often used in acne-fighting products to prevent clogged pores and breakouts. Salicylic acid can also be highly effective for addressing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation by sloughing off dead, pigmented skin cells and revealing healthier, brighter skin underneath. Additionally, it helps gradually improve skin texture by increasing cell turnover.

Is retinol or salicylic acid better for acne scars?

The ideal topical skincare product for acne scars depends on the type of the patient’s skin. Many patients prefer retinol over salicylic acid for treating scars because retinol helps stimulate collagen production and speeds up skin cell renewal, leading to a more even skin texture and tone. Patients with oily or acne-prone skin often favor salicylic acid, as it provides a deep cleanse into clogged pores to help prevent future breakouts. Retinol usually works better for deeper scars, while salicylic acid is more effective for surface-level scars. When you consult with Dr. Green at her private Upper East Side dermatology office, she will create a personalized skincare plan tailored to your specific acne scars and skin type, helping you achieve clear, smooth, and radiant skin.

Is fixing acne scars expensive?

The cost of your acne scar treatment will depend on the severity of the scars, the treatment options used, and the location of the provider, as well as their experience level. Patients with more severe scars may need additional treatments to achieve optimal results. Consulting a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green, is usually more expensive than seeing an aesthetician at a medical spa. However, to ensure safety, effectiveness, and optimal cosmetic outcomes, it’s essential to select a qualified provider for acne scar treatment. An inexperienced or unqualified provider can increase the risk of poor results or side effects such as skin discoloration, burning, or scarring. Dr. Green has over 25 years of experience in cosmetic dermatology and the expertise to treat acne scars safely and effectively. During your consultation, she will evaluate your medical history, treatment history, the type and severity of your scars, and your skin type and tone to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. At this time, the approximate cost of your treatment will be determined.

What is the most effective method to remove acne scars?

The most effective treatment option for a given patient will ultimately depend on their skin condition, the types of acne scars present, their skin tone, and skin type. Dr. Green offers highly effective, FDA-approved methods at her boutique NYC dermatology practice, including laser treatments such as Fraxel, eMatrix, Clear + Brilliant, and VBeam, as well as chemical peels, microneedling, subcision with dermal fillers, and steroid injections. Typically, a combination approach to acne scar treatment is most effective, as patients often have a mix of different types of acne scars on their skin. When you work with Dr. Green, she can carefully examine your skin condition to determine which treatment options are right for you.

Do acne scar treatments work?

Absolutely! Acne scar treatments are highly effective at reducing the appearance of depressed, raised, or pigmented scars. Non-invasive options, such as laser resurfacing, chemical peels, subcision with dermal fillers, and microneedling, are effective in stimulating collagen and minimizing depressed scars. The Vbeam laser, chemical peels, and microneedling can also help treat post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from old acne. Corticosteroid injections are particularly effective in flattening and reducing the appearance of hypertrophic and keloid scars. These treatments are most effective when administered by a skilled, board-certified dermatologist who tailors the treatment plan to your specific needs. Dr. Green is a renowned, board-certified dermatologist celebrated worldwide for her holistic approach to acne scar treatment, helping patients achieve smooth, clear, healthy, and radiant skin that lasts. When you see Dr. Green at her private dermatology practice in NYC’s Upper East Side, she will evaluate your skin, gather a complete medical and family history, and review any previous treatments you’ve tried to create a personalized plan that best suits your needs.

How do I get started with acne scar treatment today?

Acne scars can be a harsh reminder of a bothersome breakout, often leading to feelings of self-consciousness and low self-esteem. They are a common skin condition that occurs when too little or too much collagen forms during the skin’s healing process, permanently altering the dermis structure. Fortunately, an experienced, board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Green can help minimize the appearance of acne scars, resulting in smoother skin texture, a more even skin tone, and a restored sense of self-confidence. Dr. Green offers a range of non-invasive treatments for reducing acne scars, including laser resurfacing, subcision with dermal fillers, chemical peels, and microneedling. These treatments typically involve minimal to no downtime and consistently produce impressive results after just a few sessions. If you’re tired of seeing your acne scars and want clear, radiant, smooth skin, Dr. Green is here to help.

Dr. Michele Green is an internationally acclaimed, board-certified dermatologist with over 25 years of experience, offering some of the world’s most discerning individuals top non-invasive treatments and specially formulated skincare products. Dr. Green adopts a holistic, less-is-more approach to skin rejuvenation, enabling patients to achieve a natural, youthful appearance. She is consistently recognized as one of New York City’s top dermatologists by New York Magazine, Super Doctors, The New York Times, and Castle Connolly for her dedication and expertise. To learn more about treating acne scars and beginning your skin rejuvenation journey, schedule a consultation with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office by calling 212-535-3088 or contacting us online.