Acne Scarring
A calm, clear guide to the different types of acne scarring and the approaches a doctor may consider after assessment.
- Registered medical practitioner
- Standardised 3D imaging
- A written, personalised plan
What is acne scarring?
Acne scarring is a change in the texture or tone of the skin that remains after acne inflammation has settled. It is a common outcome of moderate to severe acne, and it can also follow milder acne that has been picked or squeezed.
Scars form when the skin repairs itself after inflammation. Depending on how much collagen is lost or laid down during healing, the surface may become indented, raised or uneven.
Not every mark left by acne is a true scar. Flat red, pink or brown marks are often changes in colour rather than texture, and they may fade over time without a procedure.
What causes acne scarring?
Scarring reflects how the skin heals after inflammation. Several factors influence whether a scar forms and what type it becomes.
Deep inflammation
Inflamed lesions that reach the deeper layers of skin are more likely to damage the collagen framework that supports the surface.
Collagen loss or excess
Healing that loses collagen tends to leave an indent, while healing that lays down too much can leave a raised scar.
Picking and squeezing
Manipulating lesions can extend inflammation and the depth of tissue involved, which may increase the chance of a lasting mark.
Duration of active acne
Acne that remains active for a long time, or is treated late, gives the skin more opportunity to scar.
Individual healing
Genetics, skin type and the body's own healing response all play a part, so two people with similar acne can heal differently.
Factors that can influence scarring
Some circumstances are associated with a higher chance of scarring or with marks that linger.
- Cystic or nodular acne that sits deep in the skin
- Acne that has been present for many years before treatment
- Picking, squeezing or scratching active lesions
- Sun exposure on healing skin, which can deepen brown marks
- A personal or family tendency towards raised scars
- Delayed medical review of persistent inflammatory acne
Types of acne scarring
Dr Marie-Claire will examine the skin to identify which patterns are present, as different types are approached differently.
Ice pick scars
Narrow, deep, sharply edged pits that extend into the deeper layers of skin. They are often the most difficult type to soften.
Boxcar scars
Wider, round or oval depressions with steep, defined edges. They may be shallow or deep, and are common on the cheeks and temples.
Rolling scars
Broad, gentle undulations with sloping edges, caused by fibrous bands that tether the skin to the tissue beneath.
Hypertrophic or raised scars
Firm, raised areas that stay within the boundary of the original lesion. They are more often seen on the chest, jawline and back.
Post-inflammatory marks
Flat colour changes rather than true scars. Post-inflammatory erythema (PIE) appears red or pink, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) appears brown. Both may fade with time and sun protection.
How is acne scarring treated?
Treatment is planned after an assessment of your scar types, skin type and medical history. Individual results vary, and several sessions or a combination of approaches are often discussed.
Skin health and daily care
A considered skin health routine and daily sun protection support healing and can help colour-related marks fade. Dr Marie-Claire will outline an approach suited to your skin.
Discover moreEnergy-based resurfacing
Energy-based treatments such as laser are designed to create controlled microscopic channels in the skin and encourage the body's own remodelling over time. They may be considered for some scar types after assessment.
Discover moreCollagen-stimulating and prescription approaches
Other options, including collagen-stimulating approaches and prescription treatments where appropriate, are discussed in consultation. Deeper or raised scars may need a different approach from surface texture.
Frequently asked questions
Can acne scarring be treated in Melbourne without surgery?
Many people with acne scarring are assessed for non-surgical approaches such as energy-based resurfacing, skin health care and prescription treatments discussed in consultation. Dr Marie-Claire sees patients at her St Kilda studio and does not perform surgery. If a surgical option is more appropriate for a particular scar, she refers you on. Individual results vary, and the plan depends on your scar types.
Should my acne be under control before scar treatment?
Active acne should usually be controlled first, because new inflammation can create new scars and may interfere with healing. Dr Marie-Claire will assess whether your acne is settled. If it is not, she may recommend review by your GP or a dermatologist, and scar treatment can be planned once the skin is stable.
What is the difference between a scar and a post-inflammatory mark?
A true scar changes the texture of the skin, leaving a pit, a roll or a raised area. A post-inflammatory mark is a flat change in colour, red or pink in the case of PIE and brown in the case of PIH. Marks often fade over time with sun protection, whereas true scars generally do not resolve on their own.
How many sessions might acne scarring need?
The number of sessions depends on the scar types, their depth, your skin and the approach chosen. Many plans involve more than one session, spaced to allow the skin to recover between treatments. Dr Marie-Claire will outline a likely course after assessment, and no outcome is guaranteed. Progress is reviewed as treatment goes on.
How much does acne scar treatment cost?
Cost depends on the area, the approach and the number of sessions, and it is set out in a written plan after consultation. UltraClear treatment prices are published on the pricing page. A consultation allows Dr Marie-Claire to examine your skin before any plan is agreed, so you can consider the options and decide at your own pace.
Treatments that may be considered
Every plan starts with an assessment. Individual results vary.
UltraClear laser
A fractional fibre laser that may be considered for skin texture, pigmentation and scarring after assessment at a St Kilda consultation.
Discover more
Skin health
A tailored daily skincare regimen and sun protection plan, based on an assessment of your skin in St Kilda.
Discover moreRelated conditions
Important information
All medical and aesthetic procedures carry risk. Suitability, risks, recovery and expected outcomes are discussed in a private consultation with Dr Marie-Claire before any treatment is planned. Consultations are not available to anyone under 18. Individual results vary and no outcome is guaranteed.
Treatment is planned only after a full consultation, and options are discussed after assessment, only where clinically appropriate.
Start with a consultation.
Dr Marie-Claire will assess your skin, talk through your options and explain the risks before any treatment is planned.