Acne Scar Treatment
A combination protocol rather than a single procedure. Because different scar types respond to different modalities, we assess the scarring first and then build a plan that may combine microneedling, fractional laser, peels and skin boosters across six to eight sessions.
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First, the distinction that changes everything
Most people who come to us about acne scars have marks, not scars. The difference decides the entire plan.
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation — flat dark marks left after a spot. Run a finger over it: if it is flat, it is colour, not structure. These respond well and often resolve substantially. This is the majority of what we see.
- Boxcar scars — broad depressions with defined edges. Respond well to microneedling and fractional laser.
- Rolling scars — wide, shallow, undulating depressions. Respond well to collagen-stimulating treatments.
- Ice pick scars — narrow, deep, sharply defined. The most resistant type. Improvement is possible but limited, and we will tell you honestly what to expect.
- Hypertrophic and keloid scars — raised rather than depressed. These need a dermatologist and we refer.
At a glance
| Session time | 60 to 90 minutes depending on modality |
| Sessions typically needed | 6 to 8 minimum, spaced 4 weeks apart |
| Downtime | Varies by modality, from none to 5 days |
| Comfort | Numbing applied where needed |
| Results visible from | Week 8 onward, continuing for months |
| Maintenance | Reviewed at the end of protocol |
What is realistic
Meaningful improvement in the depth and visibility of scarring, typically described as a substantial reduction rather than removal. Marks can often clear almost entirely. True structural scarring improves but does not disappear.
Anyone offering complete removal of acne scarring is not being straight with you, and we would rather lose the booking than make that claim.
Who it is not for
- Anyone with active acne — scarring treatment starts after acne is controlled, otherwise you create new scars while treating old ones. See a dermatologist first and come back to us afterwards.
- Keloid-prone skin
- Anyone on isotretinoin or within six months of stopping
- Anyone unable to commit to a full protocol and strict sun protection
The Aglow method
- Scar mapping at assessment — we identify which types you have and in what proportion, because most people have a mix
- Sequenced, not stacked — we clear pigmentation before working on texture, because pigment change is faster and reveals what the actual structural situation is
- Conservative depth on pigment-prone skin — the main risk in scar treatment on Indian skin is trading scarring for pigmentation, and we treat that risk as the primary constraint
Frequently asked
Can acne scars be removed completely?
No. They can be improved substantially, often to the point where they are difficult to notice in normal light. Flat dark marks, which most people call scars, can clear almost entirely.
How do I know if I have marks or scars?
Touch them. Flat means pigmentation. Indented or raised means structural scarring. We confirm at assessment.
How many sessions will I need?
A minimum of six to eight, spaced four weeks apart. Deeper scarring often needs more, and we will review at the halfway point.
How soon will I see results?
Marks improve within weeks. Structural scarring improves from around week eight and continues for several months after the protocol ends.
Does it hurt?
Depends on the modality. Numbing is applied for microneedling and laser work. Most people manage comfortably.
Is there downtime?
Varies. Peels may have none, microneedling has two days of redness, fractional laser has more. We tell you exactly what to expect before each session.
What should I avoid before coming in?
Stop retinol and acids for five days. No waxing, threading or sun exposure. Do not come with a fresh tan.
Related concerns
Related treatments
Results vary from person to person. Some concerns need a dermatologist rather than a Wellness treatment we'll say so at consultation.
Every visit at Aglow starts with an honest answer.
A free 15 to 30 minute skin assessment a plain explanation, a protocol and a session count whether or not you book on the day.