Types of Acne Scars and the Most Effective Treatment Options
Acne scars are the permanent changes in the skin due to inflammation in case of breakouts. They influence texture, color and general skin tone, and this effect may persist well beyond when acne has vanished. It is important to know the various types of scars since each one of them will react to treatment in a given manner. In a medical aesthetic clinic, solutions are selected depending on depth, shape, and skin condition in order to realize a quantifiable improvement. Laser treatment for face scars is one of the most requested options today, but it is not the only approach. This blog explains the main acne scar types and the treatments that deliver real results.
Understanding the Main Types of Acne Scars
Ice Pick Scars
- Deep, narrow pits
- Extend into the dermis.
- Difficult to treat with surface methods
Boxcar Scars
- Broad, defined edges
- Shallow to moderate depth
- Common on cheeks and temples
Rolling Scars
- Wavy, uneven texture
- Caused by fibrous bands pulling the skin downward
- Best treated with release-based techniques
Hypertrophic and Keloid Scars
- Raised above the skin surface
- More common on the jawline, chest, and back
- Often require injection-based therapy.
Each scar behaves differently, which is why a single solution rarely works for all.
Most Effective Treatment Options by Scar Type

Laser Resurfacing
Laser technology improves scars by stimulating collagen and smoothing uneven texture. It is most effective for:
- Boxcar scars
- Shallow rolling scars
- Pigmentation left by acne
Advanced systems like Nd: YAG and Pico lasers target damaged layers and save the neighboring skin. This renders laser treatment in case of face scars to be appropriate for darker skin complexions and recurrent sessions.
Subcision
Best for rolling scars, subcision releases fibrous bands beneath the skin. This raises the depressed regions and promotes the synthesis of natural collagen. It is usually used with lasers or skin boosters to achieve more results.
Microneedling and RF Microneedling
Creates micro-injuries to trigger repair. Works well for:
- Mild boxcar scars
- Uneven texture
- Enlarged pores
Radiofrequency microneedling adds heat for deeper collagen remodeling.
Chemical Reconstruction (TCA CROSS)
Targets ice pick scars by applying a focused chemical agent into the pit. Over time, the scar base rises and blends with the surrounding skin.
Injectable Treatments
For raised scars, corticosteroid injections flatten thick tissue. For depressed scars, collagen-stimulating fillers can restore volume and smooth contours.
Why Combination Therapy Works Best
Most patients have more than one scar type. A personalised plan often includes:
- Subcision for rolling scars
- Laser resurfacing for texture
- TCA for ice pick scars
- Skin boosters for overall quality
This layered approach delivers visible, long-term improvement instead of temporary masking.
Acne Scars, Aging, and Skin Quality
Scarred skin tends to age faster due to collagen loss and uneven structure. Scar-enhancing treatments are also elevating firmness, as well as tone, which is part of the wider rawatan anti penuaan di KL strategies. Laser systems, collagen enhancers, and regenerative treatments treat scarring and early aging, including fine lines and dullness.
Patients often combine scar correction with:
- Skin rejuvenation lasers
- Profhilo or collagen boosters
- Medical-grade facials
This improves texture while restoring youthful resilience.
What to Expect from Professional Treatment

- Visible improvement after 1–3 sessions
- Gradual collagen remodeling over weeks
- Minimal downtime with modern devices
- Custom plans based on scar pattern and skin type
Results depend on scar depth, treatment consistency, and post-care compliance.
Kesimpulan
The scars of acne are not permanent, even though they are complicated. Even old scars can be weakened, even with the correct diagnosis and the correct mix of technologies. From ice pick pits to rolling texture, each type has a proven solution when treated professionally. The most dependable outcome would be a structured plan that involves lasers, subcision and collagen stimulation. Make an appointment with Klinik Nexus to be provided with a skin-specific treatment plan. Which scar type best matches your concern?
Soalan Lazim
1. Can all acne scars be removed completely?
Most scars can be improved significantly, but complete removal depends on depth and skin response. Combination therapy offers the best results.
2. Is laser treatment suitable for sensitive or darker skin?
Yes. Modern systems are designed for a wide range of skin tones with controlled energy delivery.
3. How many sessions are needed for visible improvement?
Mild scars may improve in 1–2 sessions. Moderate to deep scars usually require 3–5 sessions.
4. Can acne scar treatments also help with aging signs?
Yes. Many therapies stimulate collagen, making them part of comprehensive anti-aging treatment in kl programs.

