Acne Scar Treatment in Australia: What Actually Works

Acne scars can change the way you look and feel long after breakouts have cleared. If you are searching for an acne scar treatment for face that delivers real results, understanding your scar type is the first step.

Effective treatments for acne scars include fractional laser resurfacing, microneedling, chemical peels, and subcision, which stimulate collagen production to remodel scarred tissue. Acne scar treatment options include both surgical and non-surgical methods.

The ideal treatment for acne scars depends on the type of scars and the patient's complexion. Find out how a personalised prescription formula could work for you at Prescription Skin.

Key takeaways

• Acne scars can be categorised into atrophic and hypertrophic types, and identifying your scar type is essential for effective scar treatment.
• Professional clinical treatments are generally required for significant improvement of acne scars because home remedies often only address surface-level pigmentation.
• Prescription skincare including retinoids, azelaic acid, and niacinamide can improve texture and reduce the appearance of acne scars over time.
• Combination treatments are often necessary for effective acne scar management due to the variety of scar types.
• Patients can receive ongoing plans that include free formula reviews and adjustments on each refill at Prescription Skin.

Types of acne scars

Understanding the specific type and severity of acne scars is the first step toward determining the most effective treatment. Acne scars can be categorised into atrophic and hypertrophic types.

Atrophic scars are most common on the face and are formed when not enough collagen is made during healing. These depressed scars sit below the surface.

Raised scars occur when the body produces too much collagen during healing. Knowing your scar type helps your doctor choose the right treatment for acne scars.

Depressed acne scars

Depressed acne scars are the most common types of acne scars found on the face. They form when acne destroys collagen and the body does not produce enough to fill the gap.

Depressed scars include ice pick scars, boxcar scars, and rolling scars. Each scar type responds differently to treatment, which is why a comprehensive consultation is important before starting any scar treatment.

Ice pick scars

Ice pick scars are narrow, V shaped scars that can extend deep into the dermis. They look like small puncture marks and are among the most difficult to treat because of their depth and sharp edges.

These typically result from severe inflammatory acne or cystic breakouts. Treatments like TCA CROSS and punch excision are often the best treatments for this scar type.

Some patients with predominantly ice pick and boxcar scars can expect up to 95% improvement with a targeted scar management program.

Boxcar scars (box car scars)

Boxcar scars are wide, U shaped scars that can be shallow or deep. These depressed acne scars have well defined sharp edges that distinguish them from other types of acne scars.

Box car scars are usually caused by widespread acne that damages surrounding tissue. Shallow box car scars respond well to resurfacing, while deeper ones may need a combination approach.

Rolling scars

Rolling scars have rounded edges and an irregular, rolling appearance, often caused by bands of scar tissue forming between the dermis and underlying tissue. They create an uneven, wave-like texture across the surface.

Rolling scars are commonly found on the cheeks. Subcision is a surgical technique used to treat tethered scars by breaking the scar tissue from underneath, making it one of the most effective options for treating acne scars of this type.

Raised scars and keloid scars

Keloid scars are thickened scars that can form after acne healing and may require medical consultation for treatment. They develop when the body produces too much collagen during repair.

Hypertrophic scarring stays within the boundaries of the original wound, while keloids grow beyond it. If you have mixed scars combining depressed and raised scar types, each will need a different approach.

Best acne scar treatments

Professional clinical treatments are generally required for significant improvement of acne scars because home remedies often only address surface-level pigmentation. The best treatments depend on your scar type and severity of scarring.

Prescription Skin does not use a one size fits all model. Combination treatments are often necessary due to the variety of scar types most patients present with.

Patients can expect at least 70% global improvement with a comprehensive scar management program. Consulting a dermatologist before starting scar treatments is essential for building an effective treatment plan and avoiding new scarring.

Laser resurfacing

Laser resurfacing is effective for treating all types of acne scars, but results can vary based on complexion. Laser resurfacing removes the top layer and typically has a faster healing time than other resurfacing treatments.

Ablative laser treatment is effective for severe acne scars and involves removing damaged tissue while stimulating collagen production. This triggers new collagen and collagen remodelling in the deeper layers.

Fractional laser

Fractional laser resurfacing is highly effective for severe textured scars. Fractional lasers can treat various types of acne scars with minimal downtime by creating controlled micro-injuries that trigger collagen remodelling.

For deeper scars and severe scarring, multiple fractional laser sessions are usually required for optimal results. Each session builds on the previous one, gradually smoothing texture.

Chemical peels

Chemical peels can be used to treat all types of acne scars by removing the top layer. Chemical peels are used to remove the top layer to reduce deeper scars and improve overall skin tone.

Mild and medium peels use alpha hydroxy acids or salicylic acid to deeply exfoliate the outer layer. Medium peels work well for shallow scarring and discolouration.

Deep peels penetrate further into the scar tissue and can provide significant improvement. Chemical peels are often used for deeper scars under clinical supervision.

Microneedling and radiofrequency needling

Microneedling is a treatment that uses a small device to create micro-injuries to stimulate collagen production. Skin needling can help reduce the depth of acne scars over multiple sessions.

Microneedling can take up to 9 months to show changes in the depth of acne scars. Patience and consistency are key.

Radiofrequency microneedling is effective for established scars in all skin types. Radiofrequency (RF) needling delivers controlled radio frequency energy to promote collagen remodelling, offering a safe treatment for most patients.

Subcision and punch excision

Subcision is a surgical procedure designed to treat deep tethered acne scars. It works by inserting a needle beneath the scar to release scars that are bound down to underlying tissue.

This is particularly effective for rolling scars and some deeper box car scars where tissue is pulled down to the underlying layer.

Punch excision is a surgical procedure used to remove individual ice pick marks. The tissue is cut out and the wound closed with a small stitch or a skin graft.

TCA CROSS

TCA CROSS is a technique that uses trichloroacetic acid to treat deep acne scars. Chemical peels, such as those using trichloroacetic acid (TCA), are often used to treat acne scars by targeting the top layer.

This targeted treatment is applied directly into individual ice pick and narrow marks. TCA CROSS triggers new collagen from the base upward over several sessions.

Dermal fillers and fat transfer

Dermal fillers can temporarily lift depressed scars by injecting substances under them, providing immediate results that may last 6 to 18 months. Hydrating treatments can provide instant results with zero downtime for atrophic scars.

Fat transfer can be used to provide volume to areas affected by atrophic scars. This involves harvesting fat from another area and injecting it beneath depressed areas for a longer lasting result.

Alpha hydroxy acids and prescription skincare for acne scars

Prescription skincare can include the use of alpha hydroxy acids, which exfoliate the outer layer and help reduce discolouration associated with acne scars. At Prescription Skin, our doctors build a formula targeting scarring, skin tone, and skin texture in a single treatment for acne scars.

Prescription skincare can include ingredients like retinoids, which help improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of acne scars. According to Alexis et al., retinoids are recommended as first-line because they address both breakouts and post-acne scarring.[2] Tretinoin, only available via prescription in Australia, stimulates new collagen.

Azelaic acid is a prescription ingredient that can help reduce the appearance of acne scars by promoting cell turnover and reducing inflammation. According to a comprehensive review, topical combination therapies that include azelaic acid show stronger outcomes than single-ingredient approaches for scarring.[3]

Prescription skincare can involve the use of niacinamide, which helps improve barrier function and reduce inflammation, aiding in the treatment of acne scars. Hydrating treatments can be part of a prescription skincare regimen to improve the appearance of atrophic acne scars by stimulating collagen production.

According to Wulandari et al., combination therapy approaches produce better outcomes than monotherapy for acne and acne sequelae.[4] Salicylic acid helps clear breakouts while preventing new acne scars from forming.

Oral medications like isotretinoin (only available via prescription in Australia) may be recommended for severe acne to prevent further scarring. According to Mavranezouli et al., certain oral and topical pharmacological treatments significantly improve acne outcomes, reducing the risk of new scarring.[1]

Wear sunscreen daily. Sunscreen is vital for protecting scars from sun exposure, which can darken their appearance. It is a crucial component of any regimen for acne scars, as it helps prevent darkening due to UV exposure.

Acne scar treatment for darker skin types

People with darker skin are at higher risk for post inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) with certain lasers, making microneedling or Pico lasers safer alternatives. The key to treating acne scars safely is matching the treatment to your skin tone and sensitivity to minimise risk of PIH.

Post inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is the darkening of tissue after trauma and is an important consideration in scar treatment. For darker skin types, choosing the wrong laser or peel strength can make scarring and discolouration worse.

Radiofrequency microneedling and Pico lasers are considered safe treatment options for darker complexions because they carry a lower risk of triggering pigmentation. A comprehensive consultation is essential before starting any treatment for acne scars on darker skin.

Prescription skincare with azelaic acid and niacinamide can help manage PIH alongside professional treatments. According to Li et al., newer approaches emphasise the importance of tailoring treatment to individual risk factors including skin tone and scarring tendency.[6]

Laser treatments vs other scar treatments

Choosing between laser treatments, chemical peels, microneedling, and other treatments depends on your scar type, skin tone, and how much downtime you can manage.

For most scars, a combination of treatments delivers the best results. Personalised plans for acne scars often involve a combination of advanced techniques tailored to the specific type and severity of scars.

According to an evaluator-blinded randomised controlled trial, novel combination formulations showed measurable improvements over 8 weeks.[7] At Prescription Skin, our doctors build you a customised formula to support healing between sessions.

Building your acne scar treatment plan

Consultations with dermatologists are essential to determine the best treatment for acne scars. A comprehensive consultation will assess your scar type, skin tone, and goals to create realistic expectations.

You should treat breakouts before starting any scar treatment. New breakouts can cause new acne scars, so clearing active acne first is essential. According to a narrative review of topical treatments, early and consistent acne treatment helps prevent permanent scarring.[5]

Some patients may need laser treatments for deeper scarring alongside prescription skincare for texture and tone.

Telehealth options allow patients to consult with dermatologists without needing to visit in person. At Prescription Skin, you can complete an online assessment and receive a customised prescription formula designed to complement your treatment for acne scars.

Patients can receive ongoing plans that include free formula reviews and adjustments on each refill. As tissue heals and responds, your formula can be adapted to shift focus toward scar treatment.

Frequently asked questions

Can you completely remove acne scars?

Most scars will improve significantly but may not disappear entirely. Patients can expect at least 70% global improvement with a scar management program, and some patients with predominantly ice pick and boxcar scars can expect up to 95% improvement. Realistic expectations are important.

What is the best acne scar treatment for face?

The best acne scar treatment for face depends on your scar type. Fractional laser resurfacing is highly effective for severe textured scars, while TCA CROSS works well for ice pick scars. A combination of treatments usually delivers optimal results for mixed scars.

How long does acne scar treatment take to work?

Treatment effectiveness varies by method. Dermal fillers provide immediate results, while microneedling can take up to 9 months to show changes in the depth of acne scars. Most laser and chemical peel sessions require 3 to 6 rounds for significant improvement.

Are scar treatments safe for darker skin?

Yes, but the treatment for acne scars must be matched to your skin tone. People with darker skin are at higher risk for post inflammatory hyperpigmentation with certain lasers. Microneedling, radiofrequency needling, and Pico lasers are generally considered safe treatment options for darker skin types.

Do I need to treat acne before treating scars?

Yes. Active acne should be under control before starting scar treatment to prevent new acne scars from forming. Prescription Skin can help with a customised formula containing ingredients like tretinoin (only available via prescription in Australia) and salicylic acid.

Can prescription skincare improve acne scars?

Prescription skincare can include retinoids, azelaic acid, alpha hydroxy acids, and niacinamide, which help improve acne scars and texture over time. While it may not replace professional acne treatment for severe scarring, prescription skincare is an important part of any long term approach to treating acne scars.

If acne scars have been affecting your confidence and over the counter products are not making a difference, a customised prescription formula could be worth exploring. At Prescription Skin, our doctors assess your concerns and build a formula combining active ingredients to improve texture and reduce scarring.

Summary

This article covers the main types of acne scars, the most effective treatment for acne scars of each type, how to approach scar treatment for darker skin, and the role of prescription skincare in a comprehensive approach to treating acne scars. Prescription Skin offers customised prescription formulas that support scar healing, with free reviews and adjustments on every refill.