Acne scars are permanent textural changes and indentations or raised areas on the skin that remain after severe or long-term acne has healed. They occur when inflamed acne lesions (such as cysts, nodules, or pustules) damage the skin’s collagen and tissue, leading to improper healing.

1.Atrophic Scars (Indented Scars) – Most common, caused by loss of tissue.

• Ice Pick Scars – Deep, narrow, and pitted (like small holes).
• Boxcar Scars – Wider, U-shaped depressions with sharp edges.
• Rolling Scars – Broad, shallow, and wavy due to tethering under the skin.

2.Hypertrophic & Keloid Scars (Raised Scars) – Caused by excess collagen during healing, more common on the chest and back.

3.Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) – Dark or red marks left after acne (not true scars but can persist for months).

• Severe or cystic acne
• Picking, popping, or squeezing acne
• Delayed or improper treatment of inflamed acne
• Genetics (some skin types scar more easily)

• Topical Treatments(for mild scarring & PIH): Retinoids, vitamin C, niacinamide, hydroquinone.
• Procedures:
  • Laser Therapy(Fractional CO₂) – Stimulates collagen.
  • Microneedling– Boosts skin repair.
  • Chemical Peels– Improves texture and pigmentation.
  • Dermal Fillers– Temporarily plumps indented scars.
  • Subcision– Releases tethered scars.
  • Excision– Surgical removal of deep scars.

• Treat acne early to prevent severe breakouts.
• Avoid picking or popping pimples.
• Use sunscreen to prevent darkening of scars.