Types of Acne Scars and How to Remove Them

Acne scars are one of the most common reasons patients visit our clinics. The good news is that scars can be significantly improved — but only if the treatment matches the type of scar.

This guide explains the main types of acne scars and the most effective ways to treat each one.

Acne scars vs acne marks

First, it is important to know the difference. Acne marks (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation) are flat brown or red spots that fade over time and respond to peels and brightening. Acne scars are changes in skin texture — dents or raised areas — caused by damage to collagen.

Types of acne scars

• Ice pick scars – narrow, deep holes that look like large pores.
• Boxcar scars – broad depressions with sharp edges.
• Rolling scars – wide, wavy depressions caused by bands pulling the skin down.
• Hypertrophic and keloid scars – raised scars, more common on the chest, back and jawline.

Most people have a mix of types, so a combination plan works best.

How to remove acne scars: treatments that work

• Microneedling – builds collagen; good for rolling and shallow boxcar scars.
• RF microneedling – adds heat for deeper remodelling; safe for darker skin.
• CO2 laser – resurfacing for deeper boxcar scars, with careful preparation in brown skin.
• TCA CROSS – targeted acid for ice pick scars.
• Subcision – releases the bands that cause rolling scars.
• Chemical peels – improve marks and surface texture.
• PRP or exosomes – support healing and boost results.

Can acne scars be removed permanently?

Deep scars can rarely be erased completely, but improvements of 50–80% are realistic with a well-planned course. The changes are long-lasting because they are built from your own collagen.

Treat active acne first

Scar treatment works best once acne is controlled. If you are still breaking out, start with a skin specialist in Lahore or skin specialist in Islamabad to prevent new scars.

Home care for acne scars

• Use SPF daily — sun darkens scars and marks.
• Use retinoids at night (with medical advice).
• Do not pick spots.
• Be patient — collagen takes months to rebuild.

Why acne scars form

When an inflamed spot damages the deeper layers of the skin, the body repairs it with collagen. Too little collagen leaves a dent (atrophic scar); too much leaves a raised scar. Squeezing spots, delaying treatment and genetics increase the risk.

A typical treatment plan

• Month 1 – control active acne and prepare skin.
• Months 2–6 – a course of RF microneedling or laser, with subcision or TCA CROSS for specific scars.
• Ongoing – peels for marks and skincare to maintain results.

Acne scar myths

• “Creams can remove deep scars.” – Creams help marks and texture, not deep dents.
• “One laser session fixes scars.” – Scars usually need several sessions.
• “Laser is unsafe for brown skin.” – With correct settings and preparation, it can be safe.

How much does acne scar treatment cost?

Costs depend on the type and depth of scarring, the technologies used and the number of sessions. Because most people need a combination of treatments over several months, we provide a personalised plan and quote after assessing your skin. Investing in a well-planned course with the right technologies usually costs less over time than repeating treatments that do not match your scar type.

Book a scar assessment

Visit our acne scar treatment page for a personalised plan.

Key takeaways

• Scars and marks need different treatments.
• Ice pick, boxcar and rolling scars each respond to different methods.
• Combination plans give the best results.
• Control active acne first.

Frequently asked questions

Book a consultation at London Aesthetics UK

Every treatment at London Aesthetics UK starts with a consultation so we can recommend what is genuinely right for your skin. Visit us at 18 CCA Street 7, DD Block, DHA Phase 4, Lahore or Jinnah Boulevard, Sector E, DHA Phase II, Islamabad, call +92 328 8886444, or explore all of our aesthetic treatments.

This article is for general information and does not replace a personal medical consultation. Results vary between individuals.