Acne Scarring
Acne Scar Treatment & Dermatologist Services in Lincoln & Brattleby
What is acne scarring?
Acne scarring develops when inflammation from acne affects the deeper layers of the skin and disrupts normal collagen production during healing. When the skin repairs itself after breakouts, it may produce too little or too much collagen, leaving behind uneven texture, depressions, or marks.
Scarring can remain long after active acne has settled and may affect confidence even when the skin is otherwise clear. The severity and type of scarring often depend on how inflamed the acne was, how long it persisted, and how the skin healed.
Acne scars most commonly affect the cheeks, jawline, temples, and chin.
Symptoms
Acne scarring can present in several forms. Common types include:
Ice pick scars
Deep, narrow, pitted scars that look like small punctures in the skin. These scars are usually the most challenging to treat.
Boxcar scars
Broad, rectangular depressions with sharp edges, often appearing on the cheeks. They are wider than ice pick scars and give a “boxy” appearance.
Rolling scars
Shallow, wave-like depressions caused by damage to underlying collagen, creating an undulating texture across the skin.
Hypertrophic scars
Raised, thickened scars caused by excessive collagen production during healing. Less common on the face, more often seen on the chest or back.
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)
Flat, dark or red marks left behind after acne heals. While not true “scars,” they can persist for months if untreated.
Other visible signs include uneven texture, enlarged pores, or areas where light reflects irregularly due to surface irregularities.
Causes
Acne scarring occurs when inflammation damages collagen within the skin. Common contributing factors include:
- Moderate to severe inflammatory acne
- Delayed healing
- Picking or squeezing breakouts
- Repeated skin inflammation
- Genetic tendency to scar
- Delayed treatment of acne
When the skin heals unevenly, textural changes can remain visible even after active acne resolves.
Who can it affect?
Acne scarring can affect anyone who has experienced inflammatory acne, regardless of age. It is particularly common in people who:
- Had prolonged acne
- Experienced cystic or deeper breakouts
- Are prone to post-inflammatory skin changes
- Have delayed treatment of acne lesions
Scarring may persist into adulthood even when acne is no longer active.
Treatment Options
Treatment focuses on stimulating collagen production, improving skin renewal, and gradually smoothing texture.
Because acne scars form within deeper layers of the skin, improvement is usually progressive and achieved through a course of treatment.
SkinPen Microneedling
SkinPen creates controlled micro-injury within the skin to stimulate collagen and encourage smoother healing.
It is highly effective for:
- Shallow acne scarring
- Uneven texture
- Enlarged pores
- Post-acne skin refinement
A course of treatment is usually recommended, with results building gradually as collagen remodels.
Obagi Blue Radiance Peel
Obagi Blue Radiance Peel exfoliates the surface of the skin and supports clearer, smoother skin renewal.
It can help:
- Improve superficial textural irregularity
- Brighten post-acne marks
- Reduce dullness
- Support ongoing skin clarity
This treatment works particularly well alongside collagen-stimulating procedures.
Polynucleotides
Polynucleotides are adjunctive rather than a first-line standalone treatment. They support skin regeneration by improving repair processes at a cellular level.
They are highly effective for:
- Mild to moderate rolling scarts
- Superficial textural irregularity
- Post- inflammatory redness
Results develop gradually and improve skin strength over time.
Ready to Refresh Your Look?
Every face is unique. During your consultation, we’ll assess your concerns, discuss your goals, and design a bespoke treatment plan tailored to you.