What are acne scars?
Acne scars are changes in skin texture or pigmentation that remain after acne has healed. They form when the skin’s natural repair process is disrupted, often due to inflammation, trauma such as picking, or deeper lesions like cysts and nodules.
Unlike active acne, scarring tends to be long-lasting and may affect skin texture and how makeup sits.
What causes acne scarring?
Cause #1 – Inflammation from active acne
When inflammation damages the surrounding tissue, particularly in deeper forms of acne like cysts and nodules, the skin’s ability to heal evenly is disrupted. This can leave behind indentations or raised areas.
Cause #2 – Picking or squeezing
Forcefully removing blackheads or pimples can damage the skin and interfere with normal healing, increasing the risk of long-term scarring.
Cause #3 – Delayed treatment
Leaving acne untreated can allow inflammation to persist and lead to deeper lesions that are more likely to scar.
Cause #4 – Genetics
Some individuals are more prone to scarring based on their skin type, healing response, and collagen production.
Related concerns: Enlarged Pores, Acne and Lower Face Acne.
Types of Acne Scars
Understanding the type of acne scar is important in choosing the right treatment:
Atrophic Scars (Indentations)
- Ice Pick Scars: Deep, narrow scars that look like small holes or enlarged pores.
- Boxcar Scars: Wide, rectangular indentations with sharp edges.
- Rolling Scars: Wavy or undulating depressions in the skin, often due to tethering of the skin to deeper layers.
Hypertrophic or Raised Scars
- Thick, firm scars that stay within the boundary of the original lesion. More common on the chest, shoulders, and jawline.
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)
- Dark spots left after acne heals, especially in medium to darker skin tones. These are not true scars but can persist for months.
Post-Inflammatory Erythema (PIE)
- Red or pink marks that remain after acne clears, more common in lighter skin tones.
Why do some people scar and others don’t?
Factor #1 – Acne severity
Deeper or more inflamed breakouts are more likely to damage tissue and lead to long-term scarring.
Factor #2 – Skin tone and type
People with deeper skin tones are more prone to post-inflammatory pigmentation, while lighter skin types often experience redness or surface pitting.
Factor #3 – Healing response
Everyone’s skin heals differently. Genetics, immune response, and collagen behaviour all influence whether scars form or fade.
Factor #4 – Early intervention
Addressing acne early can help limit inflammation, reduce healing time, and lower the chance of scarring.
Living with acne scars
Acne scars vary from person to person. Some people notice:
- Texture changes: Pits, waves or raised areas that remain after breakouts heal.
- Marks that fade slowly: Red or brown marks often fade over months. These are not true scars.
- Makeup sitting unevenly: Products can catch on uneven texture.
Some people are not bothered by acne scars. Others choose to seek advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What treatment options are there for acne scars in Australia?
A: It depends on the type of scarring. Options such as radiofrequency microneedling, fractional lasers, subcision, chemical peels and targeted skincare may be discussed. A qualified healthcare professional can assess your skin and explain suitable options and their risks.
Q: How long do acne scar treatments take?
A: Most professional treatments involve a series of sessions over several months. Deeper scars may need ongoing treatment. A practitioner can explain what may be realistic for you.
Q: Can acne scars be removed completely?
A: Scars rarely disappear completely. Results vary depending on the scar type, skin characteristics, and how the skin responds to treatment over time.
Q: Can I treat acne scars while I still have active breakouts?
A: It’s usually best to manage active acne first, as ongoing inflammation can interfere with scar treatments. In some cases, both concerns may be addressed together under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional.
Q: Are acne scar treatments covered by Medicare?
A: Generally no. Treatments for acne scarring are considered cosmetic procedures and are not covered by Medicare in Australia. In limited cases where treatment is medically necessary, your healthcare professional can advise if any referral options apply.
Treatment options and finding a practitioner
You can choose not to treat acne scars. Red and brown marks often fade over months, and daily sun protection can help. A GP or dermatologist can help manage active acne, which lowers the chance of new scars.
Some people choose to explore treatment for scarring. A practitioner may discuss options depending on your skin, health history and goals.
Non-surgical consultations
- CO2 laser resurfacing consultation
- Skin needling consultation
- RF skin needling consultation
- Chemical peels consultation
- Laser skin rejuvenation consultation
In Australia, these must be completed by a qualified doctor, nurse, or dentist.
All treatments carry risks, which can include redness, swelling, pigment changes, infection and, rarely, burns or further scarring. A registered practitioner will explain the risks, recovery time and costs at your consultation. Results vary between people.
Please note that specific treatment details cannot be provided here to comply with Australian advertising regulations.
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