Intermediate

Acne Scars

Remodelling pitted scars by rebuilding collagen underneath.

Target (chromophore)
Water
Lasers used
Fractional CO₂, fractional Er:YAG, non-ablative 1550 nm
Main effect
Ablative / photothermal remodelling
Typical course
3–6 sessions
Recovery time
2–7 days

1 What is the problem?

After severe acne, the dermis can heal with too little collagen, leaving depressions: ice-pick (narrow, deep), boxcar (flat-bottomed) and rolling (wavy) scars.

2 The science

Fractional lasers create tiny controlled injuries through the scar. The body responds by producing new collagen and remodelling old tissue, gradually lifting the base of the scar. Deep ice-pick scars often need extra methods like TCA CROSS or subcision.

Laser lightFractional CO₂
Absorbed byWater
CausesAblative / photothermal remodelling

3 Key points to remember

  • Scar type decides the method
  • Active acne must be controlled first
  • Improvement is gradual, not instant
  • Often combined with microneedling or subcision

4 What happens during treatment

  1. 01

    Scars are classified and photographed

  2. 02

    Numbing cream applied

  3. 03

    Fractional laser passes over scars

  4. 04

    Healing and collagen remodelling over weeks

5 Possible risks

Redness, swelling, temporary darkening, and acne flare-ups. Correct settings, skin cooling and experienced hands reduce these risks.

Did you know? Collagen remodelling after a laser session can continue for up to 6 months.