What Causes Acne Scarring?
Acne scars form when deep breakouts damage the skin and tissue beneath it. Depending on the type - ice pick, rolling, or boxcar - acne scarring can create uneven texture, visible indentations, and pigmentation issues that are difficult to treat with skincare alone. These scars often persist for years and can impact both skin clarity and self-esteem. Fortunately, advanced treatments are now available at The Cosmetic Suite to dramatically improve acne-scarred skin without surgery or prolonged downtime.
Best Treatment for Acne Scarring: Secret PRO
Deep Resurfacing & Collagen Remodeling in One
Here at The Institute of Dermatologists, we recommend Secret PRO for treating acne scars. It combines RF microneedling with fractional CO2 laser in a single treatment, targeting scars at multiple skin depths. The RF microneedling stimulates collagen production deep in the dermis, while the fractional laser resurfaces damaged skin at the surface, smoothing texture and evening tone.
What it treats:
- Ice pick, rolling & boxcar scars
- Textural irregularities & roughness
- Post-inflammatory pigmentation
- Enlarged pores and skin laxity
Why it works for acne scarring:
This dual-approach treatment is ideal for acne scarring as it remodels the skin from the inside out, softening pitted areas and revealing clearer, firmer skin with fewer visible marks. Results build gradually and are long-lasting with manageable downtime. Book a consultation with our expert team to find the perfect treatment path for your skin.
Other Effective Options for Scar Reduction
Excel V+ Laser
Excel V+ is an advanced dual-laser treatment designed to dramatically improve skin clarity and texture, making it an excellent option for treating scars and post-inflammatory pigmentation. This powerful technology targets over 20 common skin concerns, using two precise wavelengths to reach multiple skin depths. For scarring, it works by reducing residual redness, brown marks, and broken capillaries while also stimulating collagen to smooth and refine uneven skin texture.
Excel V+ is particularly effective for post-acne red marks, pigmented scars, and any discolouration that contributes to an uneven skin tone. With sessions typically lasting under 30 minutes and minimal downtime, it’s a comfortable, results-driven solution for anyone looking to restore a more even, radiant complexion. Most clients see noticeable improvements within just 1–3 sessions.
How it helps scarring:
- Reduces red and brown pigmentation left behind by acne
- Smooths fine textural irregularities
- Stimulates collagen for longer-term scar refinement
- Safe for face and body, with little to no recovery time
SkinPen Microneedling
SkinPen® is an excellent treatment for milder acne scarring and is ideal for patients seeking visible results with minimal downtime. As the first FDA-cleared microneedling device, SkinPen uses fine, medical-grade needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin, triggering a natural healing response that boosts collagen and elastin production. This process helps remodel the scar tissue without causing damage to the surrounding skin.
Microneedling is particularly effective at improving skin texture, softening the appearance of superficial acne scars, and refining enlarged pores. It can also enhance the absorption of topical treatments applied post-procedure for added benefits.
SkinPen is often chosen by patients who may not be ready for more intensive resurfacing treatments such as Secret PRO, or for those with a busier lifestyle who require less downtime. With a gentle, progressive approach, SkinPen offers a clinically proven pathway to smoother, clearer skin.
How it helps scarring:
- Stimulates natural collagen and elastin to remodel scar tissue
- Improves texture and tone with minimal disruption to the skin
- Reduces shallow acne scars and enlarged pores
- Suitable for all skin types, with very little recovery time
Results are typically visible after a course of 3–6 treatments, spaced approximately 4 weeks apart. Skin may appear slightly pink post-treatment, similar to a mild sunburn, but this generally subsides within 24–48 hours.
Best Skincare for Acne Scarring
Clinical Skin Retinol + Peptide Refining Serum is a clinically proven formula that combines pure retinol, bakuchiol, and peptides to accelerate cell turnover, refine rough or uneven texture, and stimulate collagen production. It’s especially effective for fading post-inflammatory pigmentation, and strengthening the skin over time. With consistent use, this serum helps restore a more even, resilient, and healthy-looking complexion.
Other Recommended Skincare
Skinbetter Science AlphaRet Overnight Cream
Gentle Retinoid Powerhouse for Even Tone and Texture
A patented blend of retinoid and lactic acid that resurfaces skin while remaining gentle enough for daily use. Ideal for those with sensitive or acne/rosacea prone skin.
How it helps scarring:
- Encourages smoother skin texture and clarity
- Visibly fades dark marks and discolouration
- Enhances hydration and skin radiance overnight
Frequently Asked Questions
Secret PRO is considered the most effective in-clinic treatment for acne scarring thanks to its dual resurfacing and collagen-stimulating approach. It targets scars at multiple skin depths and produces long-lasting results. Book a consultation today to discuss your treatment plan with our experienced team.
While some deep scars may never disappear entirely, advanced treatments such as Secret PRO, Sculptra, and SkinPen can significantly reduce their visibility and improve overall skin texture and tone.
Yes, especially for newer or shallow scars. SkinPen microneedling helps to stimulate collagen and improve the texture of indented scars. It’s also a great maintenance option following deeper treatments.
Results vary by treatment, but most patients notice visible improvement after 1–2 sessions, with full results developing over 3–6 months as collagen rebuilds and skin texture smooths out.
Medical-grade skincare such as Clinical Skin Retinol + AOX or AlphaRet can support in-clinic treatments by improving skin tone, reducing pigmentation, and refining texture over time, but for deep or indented scars, in-clinic treatments are essential.