Acne Scar Types, Treatments, and Your Way to Better Skin in 2025

I'm Jazzie, a Medical Esthetician and Scar Specialist from Dallas Texas and today I want to talk to you about Acne Scars.

What Are Acne Scars?

Acne scars are caused by post-inflammatory process. Skin that has healed from the operation may change color or texture to different degrees. There are different kinds of scars and there are different kinds of scars that require different kinds of treatment.

Types of Acne Scars

Atrophic Scars

It is the most common kind of acne scars. They appear as scars and are classified as:

• Rolling Scars: Smooth, soft, rounded and can make the skin look like a wave.

• Boxcar Scars: Sharp and shapeless, almost like small boxes or pits.

• Ice Pick Scars: These scars are very narrow, and are visible deep into the skin like small puncture holes.

Hypertrophic Scars

Hypertrophic scars are above the skin and are not like atrophic scars. They are usually red or black and itch or hurt.

Keloid scars

Long, swollen scars spread outside the wound. Keloids are bigger than the original acne scar and can require more intensive treatments.

Did you know that microneedling can improve the appearance of atrophic scars? Learn more about our services at Halo Skin and Scar.

Choosing the Right Treatment for You

Now that you know about the different types of acne scars and treatments, how do you know which is the right one for you? Here’s some information to remember:

Type of Acne Scar

It’s going to vary based on what kind of scars you have. Atrophic scars can be treated by microneedling or lasers, whereas hypertrophic and keloid scars can be treated more in the extreme.

Skin Type

You should know about your skin type to decide the treatment to reduce your acne scars. Those with darker skin, for instance, will have to be careful with certain laser procedures because hyperpigmentation could occur. Ask your dermatologist to advise you which ones are the most safe and most effective for your skin type.

Severity of Scarring

Which treatment you decide to get will also depend on how bad your scarring is. There are less aggressive procedures (chemical peels and microneedling for mild scars) and more aggressive options (CO2 laser therapy for severe scars).

Recovery Time

Choose how much downtime you are comfortable with. There’s very little to no recovery time for microneedling while laser procedures take days to weeks. It’s something you really need to be on top of if you’re busy with time.

Personal Preferences

It really is a matter of ease you have in procedures. Some of us go non-invasive, some prefer to take it more seriously. Discuss your options with your dermatologist and work on a plan of treatment that is suitable for your needs.

Some treatments only available through your dermatologist:

Dermal Fillers

You are filled in with filler to give the scar a softer appearance. It is not permanent because the effect is only for a few months at most, but it might be an easy way to look instantly good.

Subcision

Subcision is a small surgery in which a needle is inserted beneath the skin to dissolve the tendons that anchor scars to the skin. This can raise low scars and make them look younger.

Treatment Options for Acne Scars

If you are located in the Dallas Texas area and would like to explore our available treatments - ( Microneedling , Laser therapy ) Click here.

Lifestyle Adjustments to Go Hand In Hand with Therapy

There are some lifestyle changes, in addition to medical treatments, that can support the healing of your skin and diminish acne scars:

Maintain a Healthy Diet

Having a balanced diet with the right amount of vitamins and minerals is essential for good skin. Fruits and vegetables containing lots of antioxidants can also prevent inflammation and heal the damage.

Stay Hydrated

Water gives skin elasticity and body shape so drink more of it. Skin that’s well-hydrated is more prone to healing and recovering from treatments.

Apply Sun Block on Your Body

Scars that are exposed to the sun can become noticeable and slow healing. Apply high SPF sunscreen, and wear sunscreen when you leave your home.

Avoid Picking at Scars

It's tempting to pick at active acne — but it only makes skin more irritated and increases the chances of scars forming. Apply a gentle skincare routine and don’t touch your face unless you have to.

Maintain a Weekly Skincare Program

This will keep your skin fresh so try light non-comedo products. Pair Products with: Retinoids: Increase cell turnover and texture as time goes on.

Take Action!

Scars from acne are unpleasant to have, but as you see what is available for you, you can take control of what happens to your skin. Halo Skin and Scar is here to help!

Take the first step today. Talk to skincare and scar specialist Jazzie Craig, research and follow the path towards clearer, healthier skin.