Acne Scar Treatment NYC

Acne scars form when inflammation from a breakout damages the skin’s underlying collagen and disrupts its natural healing, leaving behind depressed grooves, raised bumps, or dark spots long after the original acne has cleared. Whether the result of cystic acne, nodules, or years of breakouts, these marks can take a real toll on confidence and self-esteem. Fortunately, a wide range of laser treatments, chemical peels, microneedling, and dermal fillers can dramatically improve skin texture and tone. No single acne scar treatment works for every patient, which is why board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green in NYC creates a customized plan for each individual.

The most effective acne scar treatment plan usually combines several approaches tailored to a patient’s skin type, skin tone, and the specific types of acne scars present, ranging from atrophic scars, such as ice pick, rolling, and boxcar scars, to raised hypertrophic and keloid scars. Dr. Green pairs in-office procedures, such as laser resurfacing, subcision, and chemical peels, with a customized skin care routine to fade dark spots caused by post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and restore smooth, healthy-looking skin. These treatments require little to no downtime and consistently deliver impressive results, which is why it is so important to seek acne scar treatment from an experienced dermatologist, such as Dr. Green.

Dr. Michele Green is a board-certified dermatologist with more than 25 years of experience treating patients at her private dermatology practice on Manhattan’s Upper East Side. Recognized as one of New York City’s top dermatologists by Castle Connolly, Super Doctors, New York Magazine, and The New York Times, Dr. Green is known for her holistic, less-is-more approach to skin rejuvenation. She has helped thousands of patients from around the world achieve clear, radiant, healthy-looking skin through personalized, results-driven treatment plans.

What is an acne scar?

An acne scar is the visible evidence of permanent damage to the skin’s tissue caused by inflammation from an acne lesion. When a pimple, cyst, or nodule becomes inflamed and engorged with oil and bacteria, that inflammation can injure the surrounding tissue and disrupt normal collagen production. Too little collagen production leads to a depressed atrophic scar, while too much creates a raised hypertrophic scar. Atrophic scars, the most common type, can be significantly improved with the right combination of non-invasive treatments at Dr. Green’s private dermatology office in NYC.

What are the different types of acne scars?

Atrophic scars

Atrophic scars are indentations that form when the skin produces too little collagen during healing, and inflammatory nodules and cysts most commonly cause them. Ice pick scars are narrow, deep, V-shaped indentations that are notoriously difficult to treat; rolling scars are shallow and wavelike; and boxcar scars have well-defined, boxlike edges with a flatter base.

Hypertrophic scars

Hypertrophic scars are thick, raised scars that form when the skin produces too much collagen while healing a deeper wound. They commonly appear on the chest, back, shoulders, and jawline. When a raised scar exceeds the size of the original wound, it is classified as a keloid rather than a hypertrophic scar. Unlike hypertrophic scars, keloid scars do not regress on their own.

What is post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation?

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation refers to the dark spots left after an acne breakout. Depending on skin tone, these marks can appear brown, black, red, pink, or purple. This discoloration develops when skin cells overproduce melanin during healing. Although it can fade gradually on its own, treatment with a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Green is a far faster and more reliable way to even out skin tone.

Determining the best treatment for acne scars

There is no single best treatment for acne scars, as options range from dermal fillers and laser treatments to microneedling and chemical peels. Dr. Green, a board-certified dermatologist in NYC, selects the ideal combination for each patient based on skin type, skin tone, and the specific types of acne scars present, since most patients have more than one type of scarring that benefits from a multi-treatment approach.

Fraxel laser

Fraxel is a non-ablative, fractionated laser resurfacing treatment that uses the 1550nm wavelength to stimulate collagen production deep in the skin while leaving the surface intact. As one of the most effective non-ablative lasers for acne scars, Fraxel improves skin texture with minimal downtime. Patients should expect temporary redness and swelling and should follow strict sun protection afterward. Most patients need three to five sessions spaced about a month apart.

eMatrix laser

The eMatrix laser uses radiofrequency energy rather than light to stimulate new collagen production, making it a safe option for all skin tones, including those with darker or Asian skin. Because it leaves the top layer of skin unharmed, eMatrix carries a lower risk of scarring or hyperpigmentation and offers minimal downtime. Dr. Green typically recommends about 5 sessions, spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart, for atrophic scars.

V-Beam laser

The V-Beam laser is considered the gold standard for treating redness from active acne and residual post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Using pulsed dye technology at 595nm, it targets red pigment while sparing surrounding tissue and simultaneously heats deeper skin layers to stimulate collagen production. With no downtime and a built-in cooling device for comfort, most patients need five to six sessions for optimal results.

Clear + Brilliant laser

Known as the “mini-Fraxel,” Clear + Brilliant uses fractional laser energy to create thousands of microscopic injuries that stimulate collagen production and skin cell turnover, improving both texture and tone. Treatments are recommended every three to four weeks, with five to six sessions typically needed for acne scarring. There is no downtime. Sunscreen and topical vitamin C are recommended afterward to maximize results.

Subcision with dermal fillers

Subcision is an effective treatment for depressed scars, including rolling and boxcar scars, using a needle to break up fibrous scar tissue that tethers the skin to deeper layers. Once released, the skin heals with a smoother, more even texture. Dr. Green often pairs subcision with Sculptra or hyaluronic acid dermal fillers to immediately restore lost volume.

Sculptra stimulates the body’s own collagen production gradually over a series of sessions, with results lasting up to two years. Hyaluronic acid fillers like Juvederm and Restylane provide immediate volume that lasts six to twelve months.

Microneedling

Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, uses a handheld device with fine needles to create controlled micro-injuries that stimulate the production of new collagen and elastin, smoothing the skin’s texture. The micro-channels also enhance the absorption of topical serums, allowing Dr. Green to pair microneedling with PRP for faster healing or with a depigmentation serum for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Vivace RF Microneedling

Vivace RF combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy, delivering heat to the dermis to maximize collagen production. Its adjustable needle depth allows for precise, controlled treatment. There is no downtime with Vivace, and Dr. Green typically recommends at least 3 sessions spaced 1 month apart for optimal results.

Chemical peels

Chemical peels use acid-based solutions to exfoliate the skin’s surface, accelerate cell turnover, and stimulate collagen production. They range from superficial to medium-depth and deep peels. For acne scars, Dr. Green typically recommends superficial peels containing alpha-hydroxy acids such as glycolic acid, or medium-depth peels using trichloroacetic acid at 20% or higher, with three to six sessions generally recommended.

Specialty Mesopeels are especially effective for fading dark spots caused by post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, typically requiring three to six sessions for an even-toned, radiant complexion.

Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion stimulates collagen production by gently exfoliating the skin’s outer layer, either with a spray of fine crystals or a diamond-tipped handpiece. This painless, non-invasive treatment requires no downtime and can smooth mild acne scarring while improving overall skin texture.

Dermabrasion

Dermabrasion is a more intensive resurfacing procedure that removes the entire outer layer of skin with an abrasive tool to stimulate collagen production in deeper layers. Because it requires numbing, anesthesia, and several weeks of downtime, dermabrasion is not recommended for patients with darker skin tones or a history of keloid scars, as it can increase the risk of hyperpigmentation and scarring.

Kenalog Injections

Kenalog injections deliver a corticosteroid directly into raised hypertrophic and keloid scars to flatten them and reduce inflammation. There is no downtime with this treatment, though multiple injections are often needed to flatten more stubborn raised scars fully.

Punch excision

Punch excision is a minimally invasive surgical technique that uses a small punch tool to remove deep, narrow scars, such as ice-pick scars. After the scar tissue is removed, the wound is closed with sutures or a skin graft, allowing the area to heal with a flatter, far less noticeable appearance than the original scar.

What is the best topical skincare regimen for treating acne scars?

A proper skin care routine can enhance in-office results and gradually fade acne scars between treatments. Dr. Green’s proprietary MGSKINLABs line begins with gentle cleansers, such as a lipid-free cleanser for sensitive skin or a pore-minimizing cleanser with glycolic and salicylic acids for oily, acne-prone skin, to remove excess oil and impurities without stripping the skin’s moisture barrier. From there, retinol and retinoids increase collagen production and cell turnover to smooth skin texture, while brightening ingredients such as vitamin C, niacinamide, and azelaic acid help fade dark spots caused by post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. For more stubborn discoloration, Dr. Green may prescribe hydroquinone.

Because retinoids, vitamin C, and hydroquinone increase the skin’s sensitivity to the sun, a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 50 is essential every morning, along with a hydrating moisturizer to support the skin barrier throughout treatment. Patients with active acne can also use benzoyl peroxide to clear whiteheads and pustules and prevent new breakouts while their existing scars are treated.

Frequently Asked Questions about Acne Scar Treatment

How are acne scars classified?

Acne scars are graded on a scale of one to four by severity. Grade 1 scars are flat with mild discoloration. Grade 2 scars can be camouflaged with makeup or facial hair. Grade 3 scars are visible from a distance and not easily hidden. Grade 4 scars, the most severe, remain evident even at a distance, regardless of makeup or facial hair.

Are acne scars reversible?

While dark spots from post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation often fade over time, atrophic and hypertrophic scars tend to be permanent. Fortunately, an array of cosmetic treatments at Dr. Green’s private dermatology office on Manhattan’s Upper East Side can dramatically reduce their appearance. With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Green reviews each patient’s medical history and prior treatments and examines the scar tissue in person to determine the best combination of procedures for long-lasting, smooth, healthy-looking skin.

How do you get rid of acne scars?

The best way to get rid of acne scars is a customized combination of in-office treatments, such as laser resurfacing, chemical peels, microneedling, and dermal fillers, paired with a supportive skin care routine at home. Because most patients have more than one type of acne scar, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green in NYC typically combines several treatments to address multiple scars simultaneously, delivering smoother, more even-toned skin.

Do acne scars go away on their own?

Dark spots from post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation can fade gradually on their own, but atrophic and hypertrophic scars resulting from true skin damage will not resolve without treatment. Because collagen naturally declines with age, scars can become more noticeable over time, which is why most patients benefit from consulting a board-certified dermatologist rather than waiting for them to improve on their own.

What treatment is best for my type of acne scar?

The right acne scar treatment depends on the type of scarring. Atrophic scars, including ice pick, rolling, and boxcar scars, generally respond well to laser resurfacing, microneedling, and dermal fillers. In contrast, raised hypertrophic and keloid scars are best treated with Kenalog injections. Dark spots from post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation typically improve with chemical peels and targeted skin care products. Dr. Green will recommend the ideal combination after evaluating your skin in person.

Which acne scars are the hardest to treat?

Ice pick scars are among the most difficult to treat because they extend deeply and narrowly into the skin, often requiring a combination of laser therapy, chemical peels, and sometimes punch excision to achieve meaningful improvement. Rolling scars, by comparison, tend to be easier to treat because they are shallower and respond well to laser resurfacing, microneedling, and subcision.

Can you treat acne scars and active acne at the same time?

Yes, in most cases, controlling active acne is an important part of preventing new scarring while treating existing scars. Dr. Green may recommend topical treatments such as benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid to clear whiteheads and pustules and calm inflamed nodules and cysts, and may also recommend laser treatments, microneedling, or chemical peels to improve existing scars. Treating both together helps patients achieve clearer skin without delaying scar treatment until breakouts fully resolve.

How do you prevent acne scars?

The best way to prevent acne scars is to treat active acne early and avoid picking, popping, or squeezing pimples, cysts, or nodules, which can increase inflammation and the risk of permanent scarring. A consistent skin care routine with gentle cleansers, salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide for active breakouts, and ingredients such as azelaic acid or niacinamide can help calm inflammation and reduce the risk of dark spots from post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Daily sunscreen use is also essential, as sun exposure can worsen inflammation and pigmentation during healing.

How can I get rid of acne scars at home?

While no at-home product can fully remove acne scars, a consistent skincare routine can meaningfully improve their appearance between in-office visits. Over-the-counter retinoids and retinol boost collagen production and smooth skin texture. Alpha hydroxy acids, such as glycolic acid, gently exfoliate to fade dark spots, and daily sunscreen helps prevent further discoloration. For moderate-to-severe scarring, however, in-office treatments performed by a board-certified dermatologist remain far more effective than at-home care alone.

Can you 100% remove acne scars?

No treatment can completely erase acne scars because scar tissue reflects permanent changes to the skin. However, the right combination of laser treatments, chemical peels, microneedling, and dermal fillers can make them far less noticeable. Because dermal fillers are not permanent, patients who use them to treat atrophic scars typically repeat treatment once or twice a year to maintain results. When you consult with Dr. Green, she will assess your specific scarring and design a customized treatment plan tailored to your skin and goals.

Do retinoids help treat acne scars?

Retinoids and retinol, both derived from vitamin A, increase collagen production and skin cell turnover, which can improve the appearance of mild acne scars and smooth overall skin texture over time. They are available over the counter or in stronger prescription formulas, such as tretinoin. Because retinoids increase photosensitivity, they should be used at night with daily sunscreen. Patients with moderate to severe scarring generally need in-office treatments in addition to retinoids to achieve the best results.

What is the best product or serum for acne scars?

Dr. Green’s MGSKINLABs line offers several products formulated specifically for acne scars, including a Vita-C serum rich in antioxidant vitamin C to brighten dark spots and boost collagen production, and a Skin Brightening Cream with kojic acid to fade post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Salicylic acid cleansers help control oil and prevent new breakouts, while a broad-spectrum SPF 50 moisturizing sunscreen protects the skin and supports its barrier throughout treatment.

How many treatment sessions will I need?

The number of sessions needed depends on the type and severity of acne scarring and the chosen treatment. Laser treatments and microneedling typically require three to six sessions spaced several weeks apart. In contrast, dermal fillers may require only a single treatment for immediate improvement, with repeat sessions needed to maintain results over time. Dr. Green will provide a personalized treatment timeline after evaluating your scars in person.

How long does it take for acne scars to fade?

Most patients notice improved skin texture within a few weeks of starting laser treatments, chemical peels, or microneedling. However, full results typically take several months to develop as new collagen continues to form. Dark spots from post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation may fade more quickly with consistent use of brightening skin care products. At the same time, atrophic and hypertrophic scars generally require a full treatment series for optimal improvement.

Is acne scar treatment safe for darker skin tones?

Yes, though some treatments are better suited to darker skin tones than others. The eMatrix laser, for example, uses radiofrequency energy rather than light, making it one of the safest laser treatments for patients with darker or Asian skin tones. By contrast, more aggressive ablative lasers and dermabrasion carry a higher risk of hyperpigmentation or scarring in patients with deeper skin tones.

What are the risks and side effects of acne scar treatments?

Most non-invasive acne scar treatments, including microneedling, laser resurfacing, and chemical peels, carry minimal risk when performed by an experienced, board-certified dermatologist, with temporary redness, swelling, or sun sensitivity the most common side effects. More invasive options, such as dermabrasion or punch excision, carry a higher risk of prolonged downtime, infection, or hyperpigmentation, particularly in patients with darker skin tones or a history of keloid scars.

How much does acne scar treatment cost?

The cost of acne scar treatment varies by procedure, the number of sessions, and the provider’s location and experience. Because most patients benefit from a combination of treatments, such as laser treatments paired with dermal fillers or chemical peels, the overall cost of a full treatment plan can vary widely. While it may be tempting to seek treatment at a medical spa for a lower price, choosing an experienced, board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Green helps ensure safe, effective, and long-lasting results.

Does insurance cover acne scar treatment?

Insurance typically does not cover acne scar treatment because it is considered cosmetic rather than medically necessary, though treatment for active acne itself may be covered. Patients should contact their insurance provider directly to confirm which, if any, treatments may be eligible for coverage.

When should you see a dermatologist for acne scars?

It’s best to consult a board-certified dermatologist as soon as acne scars begin to form, because early treatment can prevent them from becoming more pronounced over time. Patients with active acne, including nodules, cysts, or persistent whiteheads and pustules, should also see a dermatologist promptly, as early control of breakouts reduces the risk of developing new scars.

Achieve Smoother, Clearer Skin with Acne Scar Treatment in NYC

Acne scars, whether atrophic scars such as ice pick, rolling, and boxcar scars or raised hypertrophic and keloid scars, can be a lasting reminder of past breakouts, but they don’t have to be a permanent source of self-consciousness. With treatments ranging from laser resurfacing and chemical peels to microneedling, subcision, and dermal fillers, most patients can achieve dramatically smoother skin and fade dark spots caused by post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Because every patient’s scarring is different, the most successful outcomes come from a personalized treatment plan designed by an experienced provider like Dr. Michele Green.

Dr. Michele Green is a board-certified dermatologist with over 25 years of experience helping patients in New York City and around the world achieve clear, healthy, radiant skin. Recognized among the top dermatologists in NYC by Castle Connolly, Super Doctors, New York Magazine, and The New York Times, Dr. Green takes a holistic, less-is-more approach to every treatment plan, tailoring each patient’s care to their unique skin and aesthetic goals. If you’re ready to reduce the appearance of your acne scars, schedule a consultation with Dr. Green today by calling her Upper East Side office at 212-535-3088 or by contacting us online.