What Are Acne Scars?
An acne scar is a lasting structural change in the tissue that forms while deep, inflamed pimples heal. It differs from the red or brown marks left after acne; marks may fade with time, while scars remain as dents or textural irregularities on the skin surface.
Acne scars are generally grouped into three types: narrow, deep ice pick scars, boxcar scars with sharp edges, and rolling scars that give the skin a wavy look. Most people have a mixture of these types, and each type responds to different methods.
Less commonly, raised (hypertrophic) scars can form from excess collagen production during healing; they are seen especially on the jawline, chest and back. The treatment approach for these scars differs from that for pitted scars.
Who Is It Suitable For?
- People with pitted scars on the face after acne
- People whose skin texture looks rough and uneven
- People whose active acne is under control
- People with realistic expectations who can commit to a process of several sessions
The red or brown marks left after acne are often temporary color changes rather than scars. Making this distinction at the consultation helps avoid unnecessary procedures.
Which Methods Are Used?
- Dermapen (microneedling): It stimulates collagen production and supports tissue quality in superficial and medium-depth scars.
- Gold needle: It uses radiofrequency energy to target collagen renewal in deeper layers.
- Subcision: A fine needle is used to release the fibrous bands that pull the scar downward; it is considered especially for rolling scars.
- PRP: Applied together with microneedling, it may support the healing process.
- Local chemical treatments and laser: They may be used as complementary options for selected scars.
Treatment usually involves not a single method but combination plans, in which several methods are used in the same or different sessions according to scar types. Enough time is left between sessions for the skin to recover.
What to Keep in Mind Afterward
- It is recommended not to wear makeup on the first day after the procedure.
- Saunas, steam baths and intense exercise should be avoided for a few days.
- Products with active ingredients should be paused for the period your physician specifies.
- Sunscreen should be used regularly.
- The recommended care routine should be continued to prevent new pimples.
Possible Side Effects and Who Should Not Have It
Redness, swelling and sensitivity are common; after subcision, bruising lasting from a few days to a week may occur. Rarely, infection, temporary color change or irregularities in the scar area may develop.
The procedure is not performed, or is postponed, in the presence of active inflamed acne, infection or cold sores, during pregnancy and breastfeeding, with a tendency to keloid scarring, with use of blood-thinning medication and with uncontrolled chronic illness. Recent isotretinoin use is evaluated separately with your physician.
Dr. Fulya Koç’s Approach
In acne scar treatment, Dr. Fulya Koç first prioritizes bringing active acne under control, and then gradually combines several methods according to scar types. She is open about the fact that acne scars often cannot be erased completely, and she offers a realistic plan that aims for a noticeable reduction.
In this process, methods that support the skin’s own collagen production come to the fore; improvement progresses gradually over weeks and months. With regular follow-up, the skin’s response is assessed after each session and the plan is updated accordingly.
Fulya Koç
Frequently asked questions
Acne scars can be reduced noticeably with treatment, but complete disappearance is often not possible. The result varies from person to person depending on the scar type, depth and how the skin heals.
It is recommended to start once active pimples are under control. Red and brown marks left in the early period can be addressed separately.
Most people are planned for 3–6 sessions with 4–6 weeks between them. Deep and mixed-type scars may need a combination of different methods and a longer process.
The information on this page is general. Whether the treatment suits you, its possible risks and the results you can expect are assessed individually at your consultation. Results vary from person to person. Image is illustrative.
