What Is the Best Facial Treatment for Acne Scars?

A Professional Skin Therapist’s Guide – Instaskin by Gabi, Gothenburg

Illustrative image. Acne scars differ from person to person – professional consultation helps determine the right treatment approach.

Acne scars are one of the most common concerns clients bring to Instaskin. Many people try countless creams, serums and home treatments, only to feel disappointed when the skin texture does not improve.

The reason is simple: acne scars are not a surface-level problem. They are structural changes in the skin that require professional, targeted treatment.

In this article, I will explain:

• what acne scars really are

• why there is no single “best” treatment for everyone

• which professional treatments actually help

• what results are realistic

• and why a personal consultation matters

What are acne scars?

Acne scars form when inflammation from acne damages the deeper layers of the skin. During the healing process, collagen production becomes disrupted. Instead of smooth regeneration, the skin heals unevenly, leaving behind texture changes, depressions, or discoloration.

Unlike post-acne marks, true acne scars do not fade on their own and usually cannot be corrected with skincare products alone.

Types of acne scars – and why not all treatments work for all

Understanding the type of acne scar is essential before choosing any treatment.

Atrophic scars (the most common)

These are depressed scars caused by collagen loss:

• Ice pick scars – deep and narrow

• Boxcar scars – wider with sharp edges

• Rolling scars – wave-like texture

These scars need collagen stimulation, not just exfoliation.

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)

Flat red, brown, or purple marks left after acne heals.

• These are not true scars

• The skin texture remains smooth

These marks respond well to chemical peels, brightening treatments, and time.

Hypertrophic or keloid scars

Raised scars caused by excess collagen production.

• More common on the jawline, chest, or shoulders

• Often genetically influenced

These require very careful treatment planning, as not all facial treatments are suitable.

Professional treatments that actually help acne scars

When chosen correctly, professional treatments can significantly improve the appearance of acne scars.The key is selecting methods that match the type of scar, skin sensitivity, and the skin’s regenerative capacity.

Professional microneedling

One of the most effective treatments for atrophic acne scars.

• Stimulates collagen and elastin production

• Improves skin texture and firmness over time

Best suited for rolling scars and shallow boxcar scars, when performed with appropriate depth and spacing.

Medical-grade chemical peels

Not all chemical peels are the same.

• TCA and combination peels can improve texture and post-inflammatory pigmentation

• Must be carefully selected based on skin type, scar type, and pigmentation risk

When professionally performed and properly timed, chemical peels can support long-term skin renewal without compromising the barrier.

Bio-microneedling (biological stimulation treatments such as SQT or Green Sea Peel)

A distinct category of skin renewal that works through biological activation rather than controlled injury.

• Uses natural micro-spicules derived from marine or botanical sources

• Stimulates cellular renewal and collagen production through biological signaling

• Supports regeneration without chemical exfoliation or aggressive peeling

This approach is particularly suitable for skin that needs stimulation without inflammation, or for clients who do not tolerate strong acids or classic resurfacing well.

Bio-microneedling works differently from traditional microneedling and chemical peels - which is why it deserves a separate, more detailed explanation, covered in an upcoming blog post.

Advanced resurfacing treatments (controlled renewal protocols)

In some cases, acne scars benefit from structured, low-inflammatory resurfacing protocols that focus on gradual improvement rather than intensity.

These approaches may include professionally controlled treatments such as:

• non-ablative or low-impact resurfacing technologies

• carbon laser resurfacing methods

• advanced Korean peel protocols that combine gentle resurfacing with biological skin support

Certain Korean-developed peel systems work without traditional acids or mechanical exfoliation. Instead, they focus on controlled epidermal renewal combined with barrier and microbiome support, making them suitable even for sensitive or reactive skin types when correctly assessed.

The goal of these treatments is not visible peeling or downtime, but controlled renewal - improving texture, clarity, and overall skin quality while respecting the skin’s healing capacity and pigmentation risk.

Because these methods rely on complex biological and regenerative mechanisms, professional protocol knowledge and treatment planning are essential.

Combination treatments - often the best solution

In real clinical practice, the best results usually come from combining methods, not relying on a single treatment.

• Microneedling combined with peels or biological stimulation

• Resurfacing treatments supported by proper home care

• A structured treatment plan rather than isolated sessions

Acne scars rarely improve after just one treatment. Consistency, timing, and skin-smart planning matter far more than intensity.

What results are realistic?

Honest expectations are essential.

• Acne scars can improve significantly

• Skin texture can become smoother and more even

• Pigmentation can fade noticeably

However:

• Deep scars rarely disappear completely

• Results are gradual and develop over several months

• Multiple sessions are usually required

Consistency and correct treatment selection matter more than intensity.

Why consultation matters

A professional consultation allows your skin therapist to:

• Identify your exact scar type

• Assess your skin’s healing capacity

• Minimize the risk of pigmentation or irritation

• Create a safe and effective treatment plan

Without proper assessment, even good treatments can lead to poor results.

Final thoughts

There is no universal “best facial treatment” for acne scars. The best approach is always individualized – based on your skin, your scars, and your goals.

At Instaskin, acne scar treatments are built on careful analysis, evidence-based methods, and long-term skin health.

Ready to take the next step?

If you are considering professional acne scar treatment, a skin consultation is the best place to start.

You can book a skin consultation via Bokadirekt here:👉 book a consultation

A calm, professional assessment can make all the difference – for your skin and your results. FAQ – Acne Scar Treatments

(Instaskin by Gabi, Gothenburg)

Can acne scars be completely removed?

Deep acne scars usually cannot be removed completely.

However, professional acne scar treatments can significantly improve skin texture, smoothness, and overall appearance when performed correctly and consistently.

Improvement develops gradually over time and depends on scar type, skin condition, and the chosen treatment approach.

How many treatments are needed for acne scars?

Most acne scar treatments require a series of sessions rather than a single treatment.

The number of sessions depends on:

• the type and depth of acne scars

• skin sensitivity and pigmentation risk

• the skin’s healing and regenerative capacity

  
  

Visible improvement typically develops over several months with a structured treatment plan.

Is professional microneedling effective for acne scars?

Yes. Professional microneedling is one of the most effective treatments for atrophic acne scars, such as rolling scars and shallow boxcar scars.

It works by stimulating collagen and elastin production within the skin, gradually improving texture and firmness. Treatment depth, spacing, and aftercare are essential for safe and effective results.

Is bio-microneedling effective for acne scars compared to classic microneedling?

Bio-microneedling is a different category from classic microneedling.

Instead of needles, it uses biological stimulation to activate the skin’s renewal processes.

For certain acne-scarred skin types — especially sensitive or inflammation-prone skin — bio-microneedling can support regeneration without the mechanical stress of traditional microneedling. Treatment selection depends on scar type and skin response.

Are chemical peels good for acne scars?

Medical-grade chemical peels can be effective for acne scars, particularly for post-inflammatory pigmentation and mild textural irregularities.

Deeper acne scars often require collagen-stimulating treatments, sometimes combined with peels for optimal results. Chemical peels must always be selected based on skin type, scar type, and pigmentation risk.

What is the difference between a chemical peel and Korean peel protocols for acne scars?

Traditional chemical peels rely on acids to accelerate exfoliation by dissolving bonds between skin cells.

Certain Korean peel protocols work differently. They focus on controlled epidermal renewal combined with biological skin support, often without strong acids or aggressive exfoliation. This makes them suitable for clients seeking acne scar improvement with minimal stress on the skin.

Do carbon laser resurfacing treatments help with acne scars?

Carbon laser resurfacing can support acne-scarred skin by improving texture, pore appearance, and overall skin clarity.

It is typically used as part of a structured acne scar treatment plan, rather than as a one-time solution, and is selected based on scar type, skin sensitivity, and recovery capacity.

Are advanced resurfacing treatments safe for acne scars on sensitive or pigmentation-prone skin?

They can be safe when professionally selected and carefully planned.

Advanced resurfacing treatments focus on controlled, low-inflammatory renewal, which helps minimize the risk of irritation or post-inflammatory pigmentation in sensitive or darker skin types.

Professional assessment is essential before starting treatment.

Can different acne scar treatments be combined?

Yes — and in many cases, combination approaches deliver the best results.

Treatments such as microneedling, bio-microneedling, peels, and resurfacing protocols are often combined strategically over time.

Combination does not mean higher intensity, but smarter sequencing based on how the skin responds.

Will acne scar treatments cause downtime or visible peeling?

Not necessarily.

Many modern acne scar treatments focus on controlled renewal rather than aggressive peeling.

Some treatments may cause mild, temporary reactions, while others have little to no visible downtime. Your skin therapist will explain what to expect based on the chosen treatment.

How do I know which acne scar treatment is right for my skin?

There is no universal solution for acne scars.

The right approach depends on:

• the type and depth of acne scars

• skin sensitivity and pigmentation risk

• the skin’s regenerative capacity

  
  

This is why a professional consultation is essential when choosing treatments for acne scars.