Acne Scars: Tackling the Condition Affecting 1 in 5 People

What Are Acne Scars?

Acne scars are marks left on your skin after acne spots have healed. They happen when acne causes damage to the deeper layers of your skin. These scars can look different from person to person. Some might be small dips in the skin, while others could be raised bumps.

There are a few main types of acne scars:

Raised scars: Bumpy scars that sit above the skin’s surface

Boxcar scars: Round or oval dents with steep sides

Rolling scars: Wavy, uneven texture on the skin

Ice pick scars: Deep, narrow holes in the skin

About 80% of people aged 11-30 will have acne at some point. Of those, up to 20% may end up with scars. If you’re struggling with acne scars and their impact on your self-esteem, it’s time to explore effective treatment options.

Say goodbye to acne scars and embrace confidence! Book a consultation with Dr HAACH today and discover the transformative power of our acne scar treatments. Our experienced team will tailor a personalised plan to help you achieve smooth, radiant skin

Benefits of Acne Scar Treatment

Acne scars can be a frustrating and self-conscious experience. However, with the right treatment, you can significantly improve your appearance and regain your confidence. Here’s why:

Improved skin texture: Treatments can smooth out rough, uneven areas left by acne scars. You’ll notice your skin feels softer to the touch.
Boosted confidence: As your scars fade, you may feel more self-assured. Many people find they’re less self-conscious about their appearance.
Even skin tone: Treatments can reduce redness and dark spots from old acne, making your complexion more uniform and balanced.
Smaller pores: Some treatments shrink enlarged pores that often accompany acne scarring. This gives your skin a more refined look.
Better product absorption: Smoother skin allows skincare products to penetrate more effectively. You’ll get more out of your daily routine.
Reduced signs of ageing: Treating scars can minimise fine lines and wrinkles that form around them. Your skin may appear more youthful.
Versatile options: There are treatments for all skin types and scar severities. You can find a solution that suits your unique needs.
Quick results: Many treatments show visible improvements after just a few sessions without waiting for months to see the changes. .
Long-lasting effects: With proper care, the benefits of scar treatments can last for years. Your investment pays off in the long run.

Achieve your dream look with Dr HAACH. Book your appointment now and see the results for yourself.

Types Of Acne

Acne comes in various forms, each with its characteristics. Scarring is more frequently observed in individuals with moderate to severe acne vulgaris or in specific acne subtypes, such as nodulocystic acne, acne conglobata, and acne fulminans. You might be dealing with different types at the same time. Let’s look at the most common ones:

Whiteheads and Blackheads These are mild forms of acne. Whiteheads are small, flesh-coloured bumps. Blackheads appear as dark spots on your skin.
Papules and Pustules Papules are small red tender bumps. Pustules are similar but have a white or yellow centre filled with pus.
Nodules These are larger, firmer bumps that go deeper into the skin. They can be quite painful and may last for months.
Cysts Cysts are the most severe type of acne. They’re large, pus-filled lumps that can cause scarring.

The severity of your acne can range from mild to severe:

Mild acne: Mostly whiteheads and blackheads, with a few papules and pustules
Moderate acne: More papules and pustules, with some nodules
Severe acne: Numerous nodules and cysts

Everyone’s skin is unique, so what works for one person might not work for you. If you’re struggling with acne, contact Dr HAACH now for personalised advice.

What Causes Acne Scars?

Acne scars form when your skin tries to heal after a breakout. When you have a spot, your body works to repair the damage. Sometimes this healing process doesn’t go smoothly, leading to scars.

Factors contributing to acne scarring include:

Acne severity: Deep, painful types of acne, such as cysts and nodules, are more likely to cause scars due to their deeper penetration into the skin.
Inflammation: Severe inflammation can lead to tissue damage and scarring.
Genetics: Some individuals are genetically predisposed to scarring.
Picking or squeezing: Manipulating pimples can worsen inflammation and increase the risk of scarring.
Hormonal factors: Conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) can disrupt hormone levels, leading to acne and potentially scarring.
Sebaceous glands: Overactive sebaceous glands produce excess oil, which can clog pores and contribute to acne and scarring.
Inflammatory lesions: Acne lesions, especially those that are inflamed or infected, can lead to tissue damage and scarring.
Immune responses: Overactive immune responses can contribute to inflammation and scarring.

To minimise the risk of acne scars:

Avoid picking or squeezing: Let pimples heal naturally.
Seek professional treatment: A dermatologist can recommend effective treatments to manage acne and reduce scarring.
Practice proper skin care: Gentle cleansing, moisturising, and avoiding harsh products can help prevent further irritation.

Types of Acne Scars

Acne scars come in various forms, each with distinct characteristics. These scars can affect your skin’s texture and appearance in different ways, ranging from deep pits to raised bumps.

Boxcar Scars

Boxcar scars are round or oval depressions with steep sides. They look like chicken pox scars but are usually larger.

These scars occur when inflammation destroys collagen, leaving a depressed area. They’re common on the cheeks and temples.

Hypertrophic Scars

Boxcar scars are round or oval depressions with steep sides. They look like chicken pox scars but are usually larger.

These scars occur when inflammation destroys collagen, leaving a depressed area. They’re common on the cheeks and temples.

Ice Pick Scars

Ice pick scars are small, deep holes in your skin that look like puncture marks. They’re narrow and can extend far into the skin, making them tricky to treat.

These scars form when inflammation destroys skin tissue, leaving a column-like scar. They’re most common on the cheeks.

Keloid Scars

Keloid scars are similar to hypertrophic scars but grow beyond the original acne spot. They’re raised, red or purple and can be itchy or painful.

Keloids form when your body continues producing collagen even after the wound has healed. They’re more common in people with darker skin tones.

Macular Scars (Red Acne Scars)

Macular scars are flat, red or purplish marks left behind after an acne lesion heals. They typically appear on the cheeks and forehead, manifesting as red patches. They’re not technically scars but are often grouped with them.

These marks are caused by dilated blood vessels in the healing skin. They usually fade on their own over time, but this can take months or even years.

Rolling Scars

Rolling scars give your skin a wavy, undulating appearance. They’re shallow but can cover larger areas of your face.

These scars form when fibrous bands of tissue develop between your skin and the tissue beneath. This pulls the epidermis down in places, creating the rolling effect.

Mixed Acne Scars

Many people have a mix of different scar types. This can make treatment more complex, as different approaches may be needed for each scar type.

Post-Inflammatory Erythema (PIE)

Post-inflammatory erythema appears as pink or red marks after acne has healed. Unlike other types of acne scars, it is caused by microscopic blood vessels that become apparent beneath the skin rather than changes in skin pigment. If not addressed, PIE can remain on your skin for months and cause it to seem uneven. It is frequent in those with lighter skin tones and can become redder in hot weather or after activity.

Perifollicular Elastolysis

Perifollicular elastolysis is a rare type of acne scarring. It appears as small, flesh-coloured bumps around hair follicles.

This condition occurs when acne inflammation destroys elastic fibres around hair follicles. It’s most common on the chest and back.

Dark Spots or Staining and Acne Scars

Dark spots, also called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, are flat areas of discoloured skin that appear after acne heals.

These spots are more common in people with darker skin tones. They’re caused by excess melanin production during the healing process.

Atrophic Scars

Atrophic scars (also known as depressed acne scars) are indentations in the skin that occur when tissue is lost during the healing process. These types of scars appear as dips or depressions on the skin surface and are visually noticeable and a cosmetic concern for those who have them. Atrophic scars happen when there’s not enough collagen produced after an acne lesion heals. The skin doesn’t fully regenerate and leaves behind these depressions.

Acne Scars Treatments Offered By Dr Haach

Fotona Laser

The Fotona Laser is great for both superficial and deeper acne scars. It uses a dual-wavelength approach to target and treat scarred skin tissue precisely. This stimulates collagen remodelling which is key to healing and improving skin texture. By encouraging natural skin cell regeneration the Fotona Laser gives you a smoother more even skin surface making it the go-to treatment for full acne scar treatment.

Carbon Laser Peel

Carbon Laser Peel is a fast and non-invasive solution for acne scars and skin rejuvenation. The treatment involves applying a layer of liquid carbon to the face, which penetrates the pores. When the laser hits the carbon particles it destroys them along with dead skin, impurities and oil in the pores. This cleanses the skin and gives you a healthier complexion by minimising pore size and reducing the appearance of scars.

Chemical Peel

Chemical peels are great for acne scars, hyperpigmentation and rough textures. By applying a chemical solution that removes the outer damaged layers of skin, newer and less damaged skin is revealed. Regular treatments can gradually reduce the appearance of scars, giving you progressive improvement in skin texture and tone. This treatment is suitable for all skin types and scar severities, giving you a customised solution for scar reduction.

Skin Booster

Skin Boosters hydrate the skin and improve its elasticity and firmness. These injections contain hyaluronic acid and not only moisturise the skin but also stimulate collagen production which is key to filling in acne scars. The treatment improves skin texture and reduces the depth of acne scars, giving you smoother and brighter skin.

Dermal Fillers

Dermal Fillers give you instant improvement in acne scars by filling in the depressed areas. They work by adding volume under the skin, lifting the scars to the level of the surrounding skin. This treatment is for rolling scars, boxcar scars and other indentations, giving you a smoother skin surface. Fillers are temporary but can give long-term results when part of a full skincare program.

Other Types Of Acne Scars Treatment On The Market

Acne scar treatments have come a long way. You now have many options to improve your skin’s appearance and boost your confidence. Let’s explore some popular treatments available.

Dermabrasion

Dermabrasion uses a special tool to ‘sand’ down the top layer of skin. This can help smooth out raised scars and soften the edges of depressed scars.

It’s a more intense treatment that needs some recovery time. Your skin may be red and swollen for a week or two after the procedure.

Dermabrasion can be very effective for certain types of scars. But it’s not suitable for everyone, especially those with darker skin tones.

Laser Treatment

Laser treatments use focused light to target scars. They can help with many types of acne scars.

There are two main types of laser treatments: ablative and non-ablative. Your doctor will suggest the best option for you based on your skin and scars.

Laser treatments can be quite effective, but they may require multiple sessions. They can also be pricey, so it’s worth discussing costs with your doctor.

Ablative Laser Treatment

Ablative lasers remove the top layer of skin. This triggers new skin growth and collagen production.

Common ablative lasers include carbon dioxide (CO2) and erbium YAG lasers. These treatments can be more intense and may need longer recovery time.

Ablative lasers can produce dramatic results for deep scars. But they also carry more risks, like infection or skin colour changes.

Non-Ablative Laser Treatment

Non-ablative lasers don’t remove skin layers. Instead, they heat up deeper skin layers to boost collagen production.

These treatments are gentler than ablative lasers. They often need less downtime but may require more sessions.

Popular non-ablative lasers include fractional lasers and pulsed-dye lasers. They’re good for mild to moderate acne scars.

Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is an effective, minimally invasive treatment to enhance skin appearance.

This procedure works by removing the outermost layer of skin, targeting areas on the face or body.

By exfoliating the top layer, microdermabrasion helps address various skin concerns, such as fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots, promoting a smoother and more youthful complexion.

As a versatile treatment, microdermabrasion is ideal for those seeking to improve their skin’s texture and appearance with minimal downtime or discomfort.

Subcision

Subcision is a minor surgery used for depressed acne scars. It’s often used for rolling scars.

In this procedure, a needle is inserted under the scar to break up scar tissue. This allows the scar to rise and creates a space for new collagen to form.

Subcision can be combined with other treatments like fillers for better results. It may cause some bruising and swelling, but these usually fade within a week.

Punch Techniques

Punch techniques are used for deep, narrow scars like ice-pick scars. There are three main types: punch excision, punch elevation, and punch grafting.

In punch excision, the scar is cut out and the wound is stitched closed. Meanwhile, punch elevation lifts the scar base to match the skin surface. Lastly, punch grafting replaces the scar with a skin graft.

These techniques can dramatically improve deep scars. But they may leave a small scar themselves, which can be treated with other methods.

Cryosurgery

Cryosurgery is a treatment used to eliminate raised scar tissue.

The procedure involves applying liquid nitrogen to freeze the scar tissue, causing it to die and eventually fall off.

By freezing the raised scar tissue, cryosurgery effectively removes it, allowing the skin to heal and improve in appearance.

This treatment is particularly useful for those seeking a quick and efficient method to reduce raised scars, enhancing the skin’s overall smoothness.

Microneedling

Microneedling is an effective approach for minimising acne scars by increasing collagen formation in the skin. This therapy uses small needles to induce micro-injuries, causing the skin to recover and smooth out scar textures. It is the favoured option for those looking for the least invasive ways to effectively alter the appearance of their skin.

Prescription Creams

Prescription creams are a common and effective treatment for acne scars. Examples of prescription creams include:

Tretinoin: Promotes cell turnover, reducing the appearance of fine lines and acne scars.
Azelaic acid: Exfoliates the skin, reducing inflammation and hyperpigmentation associated with acne scars.
Benzoyl peroxide: Kills bacteria that cause acne, preventing new breakouts and reducing the severity of existing acne.
Isotretinoin (Accutane): A strong oral medication that effectively treats severe acne, including cystic acne. It can also help reduce acne scars over time.

Prescription creams can be used alone or in combination with other treatments to address acne scars effectively.

Salicylic Acid

A superstar treatment for acne and acne scars, salicylic acid gently exfoliates your skin and unclogs pores, making it a must-have in your skincare routine.

Lactic Acid

A milder alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), lactic acid is used in chemical peels for acne scars. It lightens scars and improves skin texture by speeding up dead skin cell turnover.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)

Including glycolic acid, AHAs are crucial for treating surface-level scars and promoting a more even skin complexion through their exfoliating properties. Regular use can help diminish the visibility of scars and improve skin texture.

LED Light Therapy

Non-invasive therapy that uses specific light wavelengths to reduce inflammation and stimulate collagen production. Good for acne scars. LED therapy enhances the healing process, making it a useful adjunct to more traditional treatments.

Acne Scars Treatment Procedure

Treating acne scars involves several steps before, during, and after the procedure. It’s important to understand what to expect at each stage to ensure the best possible outcome.

Before The Procedure

Before your acne scar treatment, you’ll need to prepare properly. Your doctor will assess your skin and discuss your medical history. They may ask you to stop using certain skincare products or medications a few days before the procedure.

It’s crucial to avoid sun exposure and tanning for at least two weeks before treatment. You should also cleanse your face thoroughly on the day of the procedure. Don’t wear makeup or apply any products to your skin.

If you’re worried about pain, ask your doctor about numbing creams. They might suggest applying one before you arrive for your appointment.

During The Procedure

The actual treatment will vary based on the type of acne scars you have and the method chosen. Common procedures include:

Laser therapy
Chemical peels
Microneedling
Dermal fillers

Your doctor will clean your skin and may apply a numbing cream. They’ll then carry out the chosen treatment. This can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour.

You might feel some discomfort during the procedure. Your skin may become red or swollen. These are normal reactions and usually fade quickly.

After The Procedure

After your treatment, your skin will need time to heal. You may notice some redness, swelling, or peeling for a few days. It’s vital to follow your doctor’s aftercare instructions carefully.

Protect your skin from the sun by using a high-SPF sunscreen daily. Avoid touching or picking at treated areas. Your doctor may give you special creams or ointments to apply.

Be patient—it can take several weeks to see the full results of your treatment. You might need multiple sessions for the best outcome. Follow-up appointments are important to check your progress and plan any further treatments if needed.

Acne Scars Diagnosis

Diagnosing acne scars is usually straightforward. Your dermatologist will visually examine your skin to determine if you have acne scars. They’ll look at the type, depth, and severity of your scars.

During your appointment, the doctor may ask about:

Your acne history
Previous treatments you’ve tried
Any medications you’re taking
Your skincare routine

The dermatologist might use a grading system to assess your scars. One common system has four grades:

Macular: Flat, red scars
Mild: Slight texture changes
Moderate: Noticeable depressions or raised areas
Severe: Deep, pitted scars or large raised scars

Your doctor may also take photos to track changes over time. In some cases, they might use a special tool to measure the depth of your scars.

Getting an accurate diagnosis is crucial for proper treatment. If you’re concerned about acne scars, don’t hesitate to book an appointment with a dermatologist.

Acne Scars Complications

Untreated acne scars can lead to serious long-term issues. Here’s what might happen if you don’t seek treatment:

Permanent skin damage: Your scars may deepen and become more noticeable over time.
Texture changes: Your skin might become rough or uneven, making it difficult to apply makeup smoothly.
Skin discolouration: Scars can cause dark or light patches on your skin that worsen with sun exposure.
Infection risk: Deep scars can trap bacteria, increasing your chances of future breakouts and infections.
Emotional distress: You might feel self-conscious about your appearance, leading to reduced confidence and social anxiety.
Limited facial movement: In severe cases, scar tissue can restrict your facial expressions.
Professional impact: Visible scars might affect your career prospects in certain industries.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult with a qualified dermatologist.

Consider visiting Dr HAACH. As a leading provider of aesthetic solutions, we offer a wide range of treatments to address acne scars and other skin concerns. Our experienced team is dedicated to helping you achieve your desired results using FDA-approved technologies and medical-grade procedures.

Cost Of Acne Scars Treatment In Singapore

The cost of acne scar treatments in Singapore varies widely, with sessions ranging from SGD 100 to SGD 2,000 depending on the treatment type.

Fotona Laser: SGD 300 to SGD 2,000 per session.
Carbon Laser Peel: SGD 400 per session.
Chemical Peel: SGD 200 to SGD 600 per session.
Skin Booster: SGD 300 to SGD 800 per session.

Dermal Fillers: SGD 600 to SGD 1,200 per session.

Are There Subsidies For Acne Scar Treatment In Singapore?

At Dr HAACH, we believe that everyone deserves to feel confident in their skin. That’s why we offer interest-free payment plans through Atome, making it easier than ever to invest in acne scar treatments.

With Atome, you can split your treatment cost into three interest-free payments.

Ready to take the next step? Consult with Dr HAACH today to discuss the best treatment plan for your specific needs. Together, we can create a personalised approach to help you achieve the clear, confident skin you deserve.

Why Choose Dr HAACH to Treat Your Acne Scars?

A trusted provider of personalised acne scar treatments, Dr HAACH has over 26 years of expertise in beauty and skincare and a Google rating of 4.6 stars. Our experts will carefully examine your skin to create a personalised treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. Our aesthetic clinics are located conveniently in central Singapore (Orchard, Tiong Bahru and Raffles City).

Dr HAACH offers a range of aesthetic solutions for both men and women. Our commitment to providing exceptional results is fueled by our experienced medical team and the use of advanced technology.

We utilise FDA-approved technology and medical-grade aesthetic procedures to address a variety of skin concerns, including acne, sensitive skin, pigmentation, and premature ageing. We offer a wide range of treatments and programs to help you attain the complexion you want.

Contact Dr HAACH today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how our personalised acne scar treatments can help you achieve healthier, more radiant skin.

When Do I Need To See A Doctor For Acne Scars?

Mild acne scars like hyperpigmentation may go away on their own within 3-6 months. But you should see a doctor if your scars don’t improve with time or home treatments.

It’s best to consult a dermatologist for:

Deep, pitted scars
Raised, thick scars
Scars that cause emotional distress
Scars that affect a large area of skin

Don’t wait to “outgrow” your acne scars. Early treatment can prevent permanent scarring. A dermatologist can assess your skin and recommend the most effective treatments.

You should also see a doctor if you have active acne that isn’t responding to over-the-counter products. Treating the acne itself helps prevent new scars from forming.

Dermatologists have many tools to improve acne scars:

Chemical peels
Laser treatments
Microneedling
Dermal fillers
Subcision

These professional treatments can dramatically improve the appearance of acne scars. Your doctor can create a customised plan based on your skin type and scar severity.

Preventing Acne Scars

Treat acne as soon as you spot it and continue your treatment. By tackling acne early, you can reduce the risk of developing scars. This is why dermatologists advise starting treatment at the first signs of a breakout.
Don’t touch your face. Your hands carry dirt and bacteria that can make acne worse. Resist the urge to pick or pop spots, as this can lead to scarring.
Be gentle with your skin. Use mild cleansers and avoid harsh scrubbing. Rough treatment can irritate your skin and worsen acne.
Protect your skin from the sun. UV rays can darken acne scars. Use a non-comedogenic sunscreen with at least SPF 30 daily.
Watch what you eat. Some foods may trigger acne in certain people. Pay attention to how your diet affects your skin.
If you smoke, try to quit. Smoking can slow down skin healing and increase scarring.
Manage oily skin. Use oil-free products and blotting papers to control excess oil throughout the day.

Tips for oily skin:

Wash your face twice daily
Use a light, oil-free moisturiser
Try clay masks to absorb excess oil

Start treatment early. The sooner you address acne, the less likely you are to develop scars. See a dermatologist if over-the-counter treatments aren’t working.

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FAQs

What's the difference between acne scars and acne marks?

Acne marks are flat, discoloured spots that fade over time. Meanwhile, scars are textured changes in the skin that may be raised or depressed. Marks are usually temporary, while scars can be permanent without treatment.

Will acne scar if you don't pop it?

Not popping acne reduces the risk of scarring. Letting spots heal naturally lowers the chance of infection and skin damage. However, severe acne can still leave scars even without picking.

Is acne scar treatment painful?

Most treatments cause minimal discomfort. We use numbing creams for more intense procedures. You might feel a mild tingling or warmth, but it’s typically well-tolerated. Your comfort is our priority.

Are acne scars permanent?

Without treatment, some acne scars can be long-lasting. But modern treatments can significantly improve their appearance. Many scars can be reduced or even eliminated with the right approach.

Which acne scar treatment is the most effective?

The most effective treatment varies based on your scar type and skin. Options include laser therapy, microneedling, and chemical peels. A consultation helps determine the best choice for you.

How long is an acne scar treatment?

Treatment times vary. Some procedures take 15-30 minutes, while others might last an hour. We’ll provide a time estimate during your consultation based on your specific treatment plan.

How many acne scar treatments are needed to see results?

Most people need 3-6 sessions for noticeable improvement. The exact number depends on scar severity and treatment type. We’ll create a personalised plan to achieve your desired results.

Can all types of acne scars be treated?

Yes, all types of acne scars can be improved. Different treatments target various scar types. We assess your scars and recommend the most suitable options for your skin.

Is there downtime for acne scar treatments?

Downtime varies by treatment. Some have no downtime, while others might cause redness for a few days. We’ll discuss recovery expectations before your procedure.

Why do some people get acne scars while others don't?

Scarring risk depends on genetics, skin type, and acne severity. Some people are more prone to scarring due to their skin’s healing process. Proper acne care can help reduce scar formation.

How long does it take for acne scars to fade?

Fading time varies. Some scars improve in weeks, others take months. Consistent treatment and skincare can speed up the process. Patience is key for best results.

Can I schedule a consultation for acne scar treatment?

Absolutely! We offer special trial sessions at reduced rates. This allows you to experience the treatment before committing to a package. Contact us to book your consultation today.

Medical References

Clark, Ashley K., et al. “Acne Scars: How Do We Grade Them?” American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, vol. 19, no. 2, Sept. 2017, pp. 139–44, doi:10.1007/s40257-017-0321-x.