The Latest Aesthetic Treatments for Acne Scars

Acne scars can significantly impact confidence, even long after active breakouts have healed. Thankfully, the latest advancements in aesthetic medicine offer effective solutions tailored to different scar types. Here’s a breakdown of the most current and effective treatments for acne scars.

1. Laser Treatments

Ablative Lasers (CO2, Erbium YAG)

• How it works: Removes the top layer of skin and stimulates collagen production in deeper layers.
• Best for: Severe atrophic scars (boxcar and icepick scars).
• Results: Significant improvement in skin texture and tone.
• Downtime: 1–2 weeks for healing.

Pico Laser (PicoSure, PicoWay, PicoCare, PicoLo)

• How it works: Uses ultra-short pulses of energy to break down scar tissue and stimulate collagen without damaging the skin’s surface.
• Best for: Pigmented scars, textural irregularities, and mild atrophic scars.
• Results: Gradual improvement with minimal downtime.
• Downtime: None to mild redness.

2. Microneedling RF (Sylfirm X, Potenza, Morpheus8)

• How it works: Combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy to stimulate collagen production and tighten skin.
• Best for: Rolling scars, boxcar scars, and overall skin texture improvement.
• Results: Noticeable reduction in scar depth and improved skin elasticity.
• Downtime: 24 hours for Sylfirm X; 2–3 days of redness and swelling for others.

3. Microneedling with PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin)

• How it works: Tiny needles create micro-injuries that stimulate collagen, while PRF (derived from your blood) enhances healing and skin regeneration.
• Best for: Rolling scars, shallow boxcar scars, and skin rejuvenation.
• Results: Smoother skin texture and reduced scar depth.
• Downtime: 1–2 days of redness.

4. Subcision with Fillers

• How it works: Subcision releases fibrous bands that tether the skin down, while fillers (e.g., hyaluronic acid) are injected to lift the scar immediately.
• Best for: Rolling scars and deep boxcar scars.
• Results: Immediate lifting with long-term collagen remodelling.
• Downtime: Mild bruising and swelling for a few days.

5. TCA Cross (Trichloroacetic Acid Chemical Reconstruction of Skin Scars)

• How it works: A high concentration of TCA is applied directly to the base of deep scars to stimulate collagen production.
• Best for: Icepick scars and deep boxcar scars.
• Results: Gradual scar filling and skin smoothing over several sessions.
• Downtime: Scabbing for 5–7 days.

6. Dermal Fillers

• How it works: Fillers such as hyaluronic acid (e.g., Restylane, Juvederm) or collagen stimulators (e.g., Sculptra) are injected into depressed scars to restore volume.
• Best for: Rolling scars and shallow boxcar scars.
• Results: Immediate improvement, lasting 6–18 months depending on the filler used.
• Downtime: Minimal, with possible bruising or swelling.

7. Exosome Therapy

• How it works: Exosomes (derived from stem cells) are applied to the skin after microneedling or laser treatments to enhance healing, reduce inflammation, and boost collagen regeneration.
• Best for: All types of acne scars, especially beneficial for sensitive skin types.
• Results: Improved skin texture, reduced redness, and faster recovery post-treatment.
• Downtime: Minimal.

Combination Treatments for Best Results

Dermatologists often combine multiple modalities to achieve the best outcome. Common combinations include:

• Subcision + Laser + Fillers: For deep rolling scars.
• Microneedling + PRF + TCA Cross: For mixed acne scars.
• Laser + Exosome Therapy: To promote faster healing and enhance results.

A personalized treatment plan, based on scar type and skin condition, typically offers the most dramatic and lasting improvements.

Struggling with stubborn acne scars? Let Luna Clinic help you restore smoother, more radiant skin. Book your consultation today and discover a personalised solution tailored just for you.