Acne scars are common skin concerns that linger long after breakouts have healed. These scars can appear as pitted marks or raised tissue and are often a result of inflammation caused by moderate to severe acne. Although they can be stubborn, many treatment options—both clinical and natural—can significantly improve their appearance. This article explores the causes of acne scars, types, treatment options, and strategies to prevent them.

What Causes Acne Scars?

acne inflammation damages skin and tissue
Acne scars develop when inflamed pimples damage the skin and underlying tissue. As your body attempts to heal, it produces collagen—too little or too much collagen leads to different types of scars.

factors that increase scarring risk
You’re more likely to develop scars if you have inflammatory acne (like cysts or nodules), delay treatment, pick or squeeze blemishes, or have a genetic predisposition to scarring.

Types Of Acne Scars

atrophic (depressed) scars
These are indentations in the skin due to insufficient collagen during healing. They include:

  • Ice pick scars: Deep, narrow pits less than 2mm wide.

  • Rolling scars: Broad depressions with sloping edges.

  • Boxcar scars: Round or oval depressions with sharp edges, 1.5–4mm in diameter.

hypertrophic (raised) scars
These scars occur when the body produces too much collagen, forming raised bumps often found on the chest, back, or shoulders.

keloid scars
More severe than hypertrophic scars, keloids are thick, raised, and extend beyond the original acne site. They may appear reddish-purple and are more common in people with darker skin tones.

Do Acne Scars Ever Go Away?

natural fading over time
Mild acne scars may fade with time, especially with proper skincare and sun protection. However, deeper scars often require professional treatment for noticeable improvement.

treatment helps improve appearance
Dermatological interventions can dramatically reduce the visibility of scars. While they might not disappear completely, the skin’s texture and tone often become significantly smoother and more even.

How To Treat Depressed Acne Scars

microneedling
A procedure that uses tiny needles to create micro-injuries in the skin, prompting collagen production. Over time, this reduces the depth and visibility of scars.

laser resurfacing
Laser treatments remove the outer layers of skin or stimulate deeper layers to encourage collagen formation. Fractional and ablative lasers are commonly used for atrophic scars.

chemical peels
These involve applying a chemical solution to exfoliate the top skin layers, promoting cell turnover and improving scar texture.

dermabrasion and microdermabrasion
Both techniques physically exfoliate the skin’s surface. Dermabrasion is more intense and often used for deeper scars.

fillers
Dermal fillers such as hyaluronic acid or longer-lasting substances are injected to plump depressed scars and create a smoother surface.

subcision
A minor surgical technique that uses a needle to break the fibrous bands pulling the skin downward, lifting the depressed scar area.

How To Treat Raised Acne Scars

corticosteroid injections
Steroid injections reduce inflammation and flatten hypertrophic or keloid scars over several sessions.

cryotherapy
Freezing scar tissue causes it to die and eventually fall off. Often combined with steroid injections for enhanced effects.

radiation therapy
Used sparingly and with caution, radiation can prevent keloid scars from growing back after surgical removal.

laser treatments
Pulsed dye lasers (PDL) and other non-ablative lasers reduce the redness and height of raised scars.

silicone sheets and gels
These over-the-counter options help flatten scars, reduce discomfort, and fade discoloration with consistent use.

Natural Remedies For Acne Scars

aloe vera and tea tree oil
Some studies suggest that aloe vera and tea tree oil can help reduce inflammation and fade red marks over time.

propolis and curcumin
Propolis extract, when combined with curcumin (turmeric compound), may assist in wound healing and reduce scarring.

lemon juice and vinegar caution
Though often recommended, acidic treatments like lemon juice and vinegar can irritate sensitive skin and worsen scars for some people.

patch test and consult first
Always consult a dermatologist before applying home remedies to ensure they are safe for your skin type and condition.

How To Prevent Acne Scars

treat acne early and consistently
Timely and effective acne treatment is the best way to prevent scars from forming. Use OTC products with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, and consult a dermatologist for severe cases.

avoid picking or squeezing pimples
Touching or popping acne increases inflammation and the chance of scarring. Keep hands off your face and treat breakouts gently.

establish a skincare routine
Use a gentle cleanser, non-comedogenic moisturizer, and daily sunscreen. Harsh scrubbing or drying products can worsen inflammation and delay healing.

continue skincare post-acne
Even after breakouts subside, continue using mild exfoliants or retinoids to encourage cell turnover and support skin recovery.

monitor hormonal changes
For some individuals, hormonal imbalances drive acne. Birth control pills or hormone-regulating medication may be helpful under a doctor’s supervision.

When To See A Dermatologist

consult if scars affect your confidence
If acne scars impact your self-esteem or daily life, it's worth seeking a dermatologist’s advice. Many treatment options can significantly improve your skin’s appearance.

get personalized care
A dermatologist will assess your skin type, scar type, and medical history to recommend safe and effective treatments—especially important for deeper scars or darker skin tones.

Summary

Acne scars form when the skin’s healing process produces too much or too little collagen. They come in various types, including pitted, raised, and keloid scars. While some scars may fade naturally, others require medical treatments like laser therapy, microneedling, or fillers for improvement.

Natural remedies like aloe vera and tea tree oil may help, but results vary. Preventing acne scars involves timely acne treatment, avoiding picking, and maintaining a healthy skincare routine.

If your scars are deep or affect your self-confidence, consult a dermatologist for treatment options tailored to your skin’s needs.