Acne Scars: Causes, Types, and Best Treatment Options
15% of people with untreated acne are left with acne scars. The best treatment for acne scars is prevention. Early acne treatment is now more effective, accessible, and affordable than ever. By using a tailored set of anti-acne products suited to your skin type and severity, you can often achieve excellent results, even without oral medications. But what if you already have scars—red spots, brown spots, or textured scars? Here are answers to the 10 most common questions about acne scars and their treatments.
[1] How Do I Get Rid of Acne Scars? What’s the Best Solution?
Acne scars result from damage to the deeper layers of the skin (dermis). They can be divided into the following categories:
Flat Acne Marks:
- Flat, Pink, or Reddish Spots:
These are caused by enlarged capillaries and usually fade on their own within weeks or months. - Flat Brown Spots:
Some fade naturally, while others need treatment, such as whitening creams (prescription-based) or superficial chemical peels. - Persistent Pink and Brown Spots:
These can be treated using Intense Pulsed Light (IPL), which targets capillaries and melanin to fade spots effectively.
Types of Real Acne Scars
1. Hypertrophic Acne Scars
- Raised scars that stay within the boundaries of the original pimple.
2. Keloid Acne Scars
- Raised scars that grow larger than the original pimple area, often found on the chest, back, shoulders, and ears.
- Treatments:
- Steroid injections combined with cryotherapy (freezing).
- Silicone anti-scar sheets worn for months, which may reduce redness and flatten scars.
3. Icepick Scars
- Deep, narrow scars (1–2 mm in diameter) extending into the dermis.
- Often seen on the cheeks.
- Treatment options include punch excision or resurfacing techniques.
4. Depressed or Boxcar Scars
- Scars with sharply defined edges and steep walls, often 1.5–4 mm in diameter.
- Shallow scars: Resurfacing or punch elevation.
- Deep scars: Punch excision or elevation.
5. Soft Rolling Scars
- Large, gently sloped scars that blend with normal skin.
- Often treated with subcision, which releases the fibrous bands tethering the scar.
Minimally invasive treatments like fractional microneedle RF systems (e.g., Endymed Intensif) are highly effective and safe, especially for darker skin tones.
[2] Should I Use a Derma Roller for Acne Scars?
Derma rollers are not ideal for people with active acne as they can spread bacteria and worsen breakouts. For fair-skinned individuals with depressed scars (and no active acne), derma rollers can help. However, sun protection and whitening creams are often more effective for treating brown spots.
[3] Can I Get Rid of Red Marks Left by Acne Spots?
Post-acne red marks are caused by enlarged capillaries. These pink spots usually fade on their own within weeks. To speed up the process:
- Prevent new pimples with a mild anti-acne cream.
- Use an oil-free sunscreen every morning.
For persistent red marks, IPL treatments can target capillaries and fade spots faster.
[4] How Can I Get Rid of Post-Acne Dark Spots?
For brown spots, the best over-the-counter ingredients include:
- Arbutin: A natural derivative of hydroquinone found in bearberry, blueberry, and cranberry.
- Kojic Acid: An antioxidant that breaks down melanin and prevents its production.
- Licorice & Green Tea: Natural ingredients that safely fade brown spots when used consistently for 3 months.
Consider the Advanced Dark Spot Remover, specially formulated for sensitive and acne-prone skin. Its main ingredient, Arbutin, reduces melanin overproduction. Pair it with an oil-free sunscreen included in the kit for best results.
[5] Does Retinol Work for Acne Scars? Should I Take Oral Supplements?
Yes! Retinol stimulates collagen production, smoothing skin and fading scars. For faster results, combine topical treatments like MDacne Retinol Treatment Cream with in-office treatments like microneedle RF or fractional lasers.
A topical scar cream with peptides and ceramides can speed up healing of blemishes, strengthen skin barrier, reduce inflammation, and improve texture in newer scars.
Taking supplements can also help. The MDacne Vitamin and Mineral Supplements contain Vitamin A, B5, zinc, and selenium—key nutrients for healing and collagen production.
[6] How Can I Treat Persistent Red Spots with No Active Blemishes?
Red spots often fade on their own but can take months. For quicker results:
- Use IPL treatments to coagulate capillaries and eliminate redness.
- For brown spots, whitening creams, Jessner’s peels, or IPL can help.
[7] How Can I Reduce Acne Scars in Two Weeks Before a Big Event?
Unfortunately, even the most powerful treatments like Accutane take months to show results. For mild acne, you may see improvements within 4–6 weeks with customized treatments via the MDacne app. Track your progress daily for faster results.
[8] How Do I Prevent Foundation from Creasing Around Depressed Scars?
- Use less foundation—the more you apply, the more it creases.
- Apply a translucent setting powder with a damp sponge for a tighter set.
- Finish with a setting spray to create a natural, skin-like finish.
- Use a glycerin-based primer to help makeup stick without looking heavy.
[9] Why Are Acne Scars Red, and How Can I Fade Them?
Acne scars appear red due to enlarged capillaries in the scar tissue. While this redness typically fades within 3–9 months, you can:
- Continue anti-acne treatments to prevent new breakouts.
- Use oil-free sunscreen daily to prevent further discoloration.
- Consider laser treatments if redness persists after 9 months.
[10] I've Had a Couple Spots for Over 6 Months Now. They're Flat and Red. How Can I Treat Them?
Flat red spots are often post-acne marks rather than scars. These typically fade within 2–6 months. In the meantime:
- Apply a mild anti-acne cream at night.
- Use sunscreen every morning to prevent further darkening.
For stubborn marks, lasers can help fade them faster.
Key Facts About Acne Scars
- 15% of people with untreated acne develop scars.
- There are two main categories of post-acne signs:
- Flat marks (red or brown).
- True scars (textural changes).
By addressing scars early with the right treatments, you can achieve smoother, clearer skin. Whether through personalized solutions like MDacne’s Advanced Dark Spot Remover or professional treatments, the path to confidence is closer than you think.
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