Your skin has a natural ability to heal itself, even after inflammation and injury from severe acne. But once the breakouts are gone, the surface of your skin may not return to the same texture it had before. Scars can remain visible and create uneven tone, pitted areas, or lingering discoloration.
At San Diego Aesthetics & Med Spa in La Mesa, we offer acne scar treatment options that can help improve skin texture and promote a smoother appearance. These treatments work with your skin’s natural renewal processes. We provide solutions suited for different scar types, skin tones, and treatment goals.
How Acne Scars Form
Acne scars develop when breakouts damage deeper layers of the skin, often due to inflammation or trauma from picking or squeezing. When the skin tries to repair itself, it produces collagen to rebuild the area. Too little collagen can lead to depressed scars, while too much can cause raised scars. The type of acne, how long it lasts, and how the skin responds all affect the kind of scarring that appears. Some scars fade over time, but many remain without treatment.
Why Not Everyone Gets Acne Scars
Not all patients develop acne scars because skin heals differently from person to person. Genetics, skin type, and the severity of acne all influence scarring. Some people are more prone to inflammation, which increases the chance of long-term changes in the skin. Early intervention and avoiding skin trauma can also reduce the risk.
Types of Acne Scars
- Ice pick scars: These are small, narrow indentations that go deep into the skin. They often look like tiny holes and are harder to treat due to their depth.
- Boxcar scars: These scars have sharp edges and appear wider than ice pick scars. They often form on the cheeks and give the skin a pitted appearance.
- Rolling scars: These scars have sloped edges and create a wavy or uneven texture on the skin. They tend to form where the skin is thicker, such as the lower cheeks or jawline.
- Hypertrophic and keloid scars: These scars are raised and form when the skin produces too much collagen during the healing process. Keloids can grow beyond the original injury site, while hypertrophic scars stay within the boundaries of the breakout.
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH): This is not a scar, but a dark or discolored patch that remains after acne heals. PIH is more noticeable on darker skin tones and can take months to fade without treatment.
Treatment Options for Acne Scars
Tissue Fillers
Tissue fillers are injectable formulas usually made of hyaluronic acid that can help raise depressed scars by adding volume beneath the skin. This makes the surface appear smoother and more even. Results can vary depending on what type of filler for acne scars that we use and the depth of the scar. Some patients choose to repeat this treatment regularly to maintain results.
Dermabrasion
Dermabrasion removes the outermost layer of skin using a rotating device, which helps reduce the appearance of deeper scars. As the skin heals, a smoother texture gradually forms. This acne scar treatment is most effective for surface-level boxcar or rolling scars. It may not be suitable for patients with very sensitive or darker skin tones.
Laser Resurfacing
CO2 laser resurfacing targets scarred areas by removing damaged layers of skin and stimulating new collagen production. We use the DEKA SmartXide PRO device to deliver focused energy with customizable precision. This laser treatment for acne scars can help reduce both the depth and discoloration of scars.
Microneedling Treatments
- SkinPen® Precision Elite Microneedling: We use the SkinPen Precision Elite to create microchannels in the surface of the skin. This process stimulates your body’s natural healing response and triggers new collagen production in the treated area. It can help smooth uneven texture left by scarring and improve the overall tone of your skin. Among the acne scar treatment options we offer, this method is ideal for patients who want noticeable improvement with minimal downtime.
- RF Microneedling: RF microneedling for acne scars combines the collagen-stimulating effects of traditional microneedling with the added benefit of radiofrequency energy. Heat is delivered through the needles to deeper layers of the skin, which remodels scar tissue while improving the surface texture. The PiXel8 RF device allows us to adjust the energy level and needle depth based on your specific scars and skin type. This treatment works well for rolling and boxcar scars.
- Microneedling With PRP or PRF: We often enhance microneedling sessions with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or platelet-rich fibrin (PRF). These substances come from your blood and contain growth factors that support tissue repair and skin regeneration. After we draw a small sample of blood, we isolate the PRP or PRF and apply it directly to the treated skin. When combined with microneedling, it absorbs into the channels and strengthens the repair process.
Chemical Peels
A chemical peel for acne scars uses controlled exfoliation to remove damaged skin cells and support natural skin turnover. This process can help fade discoloration, reduce surface roughness, and improve uneven texture caused by acne scarring. We offer different strengths and formulas depending on the depth of the scars and your skin’s sensitivity.
- AHA Peels for Surface Scars: Alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) peels gently exfoliate the uppermost layers of skin. These are often recommended for patients with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or mild atrophic scarring. Regular treatments can brighten the skin, soften rough patches, and improve surface-level irregularities.
- TCA Peels for Deeper Scars: Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) peels penetrate deeper into the skin to target more pronounced texture issues. We may use lower concentrations for moderate scarring or higher strengths in a controlled spot-treatment technique. TCA peels help stimulate collagen production and break down scar tissue.
Punch Excision
Punch excision is a minor in-office treatment for pitted acne scars that physically removes certain types of deep, narrow scars, such as ice pick scars. We use a small, circular tool to extract the scarred skin and then close the area with a fine suture or allow it to heal naturally. This method creates a smoother surface once the skin heals and is often followed by resurfacing treatments for broader benefits.
Subcision for Acne Scars
In this procedure, an instrument is used under the skin to sever the fibrous tether that connects the acne scar to the underlying layers of tissue. In some types of scars, the tissue is more indented because of these bands. Releasing the tethers allows the skin to be flatter and smoother and additional treatments can be added to improve the texture even more.
Benefits of Professional Acne Scar Treatments
Visible Improvement in Texture and Tone
When we treat acne scars professionally, we target both the surface of the skin and the layers beneath it. This gives us the ability to smooth rough or uneven areas while also reducing discoloration that may linger after breakouts. These improvements happen gradually, allowing the skin to respond naturally over time.
Long-Lasting, Gradually Improving Results
Most treatments used for acne scar removal do not produce instant results, but they do support long-term improvement. As your skin builds new collagen and continues to heal, you may see changes for several months after your sessions. Because we work with your body’s natural processes, the results can last and even get better over time with proper care.
Options for All Skin Types
We consider your skin type when choosing the best treatment for acne scars. Some technologies and methods work better for lighter skin, while others are safe for darker tones or more sensitive skin. Whether you have dry, oily, or combination skin, we select treatments that fit your unique profile. We also adjust settings or product strengths as needed to reduce irritation and support a healthy recovery.
What Can You Expect During Your Acne Treatment Plan?
Consultation
During your consultation, we evaluate your skin to identify the types of scars you have, your skin tone, and how your skin tends to respond to treatment. We may also ask about your history with acne, prior treatments, and any current skincare products you use. Based on this information, we will build a plan that fits your skin’s needs. Before your first session, we may advise you to stop using certain products or avoid sun exposure for several days to prepare your skin for treatment.
The Day of Your Treatment
On treatment day, we clean your skin thoroughly and apply any necessary numbing agents depending on the method we are using. Whether we perform microneedling, a laser session, or a chemical peel, we explain each step to help you stay informed. Some patients feel mild warmth or sensitivity during treatment, but we take steps to keep you comfortable throughout. Your acne scar therapy session length depends on the technique, but many appointments take less than an hour.
Downtime and Recovery for Acne Marks Removal
Downtime varies depending on the treatment. You may notice redness, swelling, or mild flaking in the first few days. For deeper treatments, it can take up to a week for the skin to fully settle. We give you clear aftercare instructions to support healing, including when to resume skincare products and how to protect your skin from sun exposure.
A Timeline for Post-Treatment Results
Visible changes often begin within a few weeks, especially after your skin completes its renewal cycle. Collagen remodeling takes time, so results from laser or microneedling treatments may continue to improve for several months. Some patients need a series of treatments spaced apart to get the best outcome. We monitor your progress and adjust your plan as needed based on how your skin responds.
How Can You Prevent Future Acne Scars?
- Managing Acne Early: Treating active acne as soon as it starts can reduce the chance of long-term damage to the skin. The longer inflammation stays active, the more likely it is to affect deeper layers and leave a lasting mark.
- Avoiding Picking or Popping Pimples: Squeezing or picking at breakouts can push bacteria deeper into the skin and increase inflammation. Popping pimples may lead to noticeable scarring that takes longer to improve.
- Using the Right Skincare Products: Choose products that support skin balance without causing irritation or dryness. We can help guide you toward ingredients that calm inflammation and promote even texture.
- Using Sun Protection: Sun exposure can darken healing areas and make scars more visible. Daily use of a broad-spectrum SPF helps protect your skin and prevents hyperpigmentation from worsening.
- Regularly Exfoliating and Hydrating Skin: Gentle exfoliation encourages cell turnover and helps fade early discoloration. Keeping the skin well hydrated also supports barrier repair and reduces the risk of long-term textural changes.
A Few Common Questions About Acne Scar Treatments
Will My Scars Disappear Completely?
While we cannot promise complete removal, many patients see noticeable improvement in the depth, texture, and appearance of their scars. Treatments focus on softening the edges of indented scars, blending discoloration, and stimulating new collagen. Scar tissue tends to respond gradually, so improvements may take time.
Can Patients With Darker Skin Be Treated?
Patients with darker skin can be safely treated, but the approach must be carefully planned. Darker skin is more prone to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), especially after treatments that affect the deeper layers of the skin. We select treatments and settings that protect your skin tone while still addressing scarring.
How Many Acne Scar Treatments Will I Need?
The number of professional acne scar removal treatments depends on the type and severity of your scars, as well as how your skin responds. Some patients need only a few sessions, while others benefit from a full series. We monitor your progress and make adjustments based on your results. We will go over the expected timeline during your consultation.
Our Treatments at San Diego Aesthetics & Med Spa
We take a thoughtful, minimalistic approach as we remove acne scars, focusing on natural-looking results that allow the features you already have to shine. As a small, woman-owned practice, we value a relaxed environment where you can feel comfortable asking questions and exploring options without being pushed into a treatment plan. Every appointment is designed based on your skin’s needs. Your acne scar treatment dermatologist will use advanced tools and proven techniques to support your skin’s healing.
Smooth and Refine Your Skin With Acne Scar Treatments in La Mesa, CA
At San Diego Aesthetics & Med Spa in La Mesa, CA, we offer multiple acne scar treatment options to help smooth your skin and reduce the appearance of long-term scarring. Whether you need laser resurfacing, microneedling, or targeted excision, we select methods based on how your skin heals and the type of scars you have. Treatments are designed to work with your skin’s natural processes for gradual, lasting improvement. Are you wondering how to get rid of acne scars? To schedule your consultation, call (619) 303-0988 or contact us online.
