What Causes Acne Scars and How to Treat Them Effectively 

For many people, acne isn’t just a passing phase. Even after the breakouts fade, they leave behind frustrating reminders—acne scars that affect skin texture, tone, and self-confidence. Whether the scars are shallow and subtle or deep and textured, they can be difficult to treat with at-home remedies alone.

What’s even more frustrating is the emotional toll acne scars can take. For those who’ve struggled with persistent acne, the scars can serve as a daily reminder, making it harder to feel confident without makeup or in bright lighting. If you’re looking for answers and solutions, you’re not alone—and there are effective treatments that can help.

If you’re located in Houston, TX and searching for proven methods to reduce or eliminate acne scars, Dream Aesthetic Med Spa offers advanced treatment options that can help restore smoother, clearer skin. Here’s what you need to know.

What Is an Acne Scar?

An acne scar forms when a breakout penetrates the skin deeply and damages the tissue beneath. The skin responds by producing collagen during the healing process. If too much or too little collagen is produced, a scar forms—either as a depression (atrophic) or a raised area (hypertrophic or keloid).

The primary categories of post-acne skin damage consist of:

• Rolling scars: broad depressions with sloping edges
• Ice pick scars: deep, narrow scars that resemble enlarged pores
• Boxcar scars: wide, boxy depressions with well-defined edges
• Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH): dark spots that remain after a pimple heals

While topical treatments can help with discoloration, acne scar removal often requires more targeted, clinical solutions—especially for textural concerns.

Benefits of Scar Removal Treatment

Treating acne scars goes beyond improving appearance—it can boost confidence, enhance makeup application, and support better skin health overall. Here’s how:

• Minimally invasive options: Treatments like subcision and microneedling are effective for reducing acne scars while keeping discomfort and downtime to a minimum.
• Collagen stimulation: Many professional treatments work by boosting your skin’s natural collagen production, helping it heal and rebuild over time.
• Customized to your skin type: Customized solutions exist to safely address your specific concerns, regardless of skin sensitivity, deeper pigmentation, or intricate scarring patterns.
• Smooths uneven texture: By targeting areas of raised or depressed scarring, these treatments help create a smoother, more even-looking skin surface.
• Long-term improvement: With consistent aftercare and follow-up, many procedures continue to improve skin texture and tone months after the initial session.
• Confidence boost: As your skin becomes healthier and more refined, it often leads to a noticeable boost in self-esteem and comfort in your appearance.

Who Is This Best For?

Acne scar treatment is ideal for adults of all ages who are bothered by the texture or appearance of residual acne scars. It’s particularly beneficial for:

• People with rolling, boxcar, or ice pick scars
• Clients who have tried over-the-counter solutions with little success
• Individuals seeking non-surgical or minimally invasive options
• Those with realistic expectations who want gradual, natural-looking improvements
• Skin types I–III tend to respond well to lasers, while microneedling and subcision are safer for a broader range of tones

If you’ve been hesitant because of concerns about downtime, discomfort, or results, professional consultations of our team can offer clarity and reassurance.

What to Expect (Process, Timeline, Results)

Pre-Treatment Prep

• Avoid sun exposure and exfoliants for at least one week
• Discontinue retinoids or harsh acids a few days before treatment
• Depending on your chosen treatment, your provider might apply a desensitizing cream to enhance your comfort.

Treatment Day

Dream Aesthetic Med Spa offers several acne scar treatments, including some of the best facial options for acne scars, customized to your specific skin condition and goals.

• Microneedling with PRP or Exosomes: Tiny controlled injuries promote collagen while PRP accelerates healing
• Radiofrequency Microneedling: Adds skin tightening and deeper stimulation to traditional microneedling
• Tetra CoolPeel: A gentle CO₂ laser option with minimal downtime and great for surface smoothing
• Deka CO₂ Laser Resurfacing: A deeper laser treatment for more pronounced scars, requiring more downtime
• Subcision: Targets rolling scars by releasing the fibrous bands underneath the skin
• Combination Treatments: Often recommended for more noticeable results, blending subcision with RF microneedling or laser
• Erbium Laser or PDO Threads: Great for enhancing collagen and treating delicate or small scar areas

Downtime and Recovery

• Downtime varies by procedure:
  • CoolPeel: 2–3 days
  • CO₂ and Erbium Laser: 5–7 days
  • Microneedling/Subcision: Minimal downtime
• Expect some redness, swelling, or flaking depending on the treatment
• Following most procedures, patients typically experience minimal downtime, with normal activities resumable within 48-72 hours

When Results Appear

• Early results can be seen in 2–4 weeks as collagen begins to build
• Improvements continue over several months with optimal results often visible by 3–6 months
• A series of treatments may be recommended for best outcomes

FAQs or Myths Debunked

Can acne scars go away on their own?

Mild discoloration may fade over time, but true acne scars (especially textural ones) typically require targeted treatment for visible improvement.

Is acne scar treatment safe for darker skin tones?

Yes, but some treatments like deep laser resurfacing may require adjustments. Techniques like microneedling and subcision are safer for a broader range of skin types.

How many sessions do I need for acne scar removal?

Most people benefit from a series of 3–6 treatments, spaced several weeks apart, though some may see results sooner.

Is it painful?

Most treatments involve little discomfort. Numbing agents are often used to keep the process comfortable.

Will the scars come back?

Once a scar is treated, it won’t return. However, preventing future breakouts is important to avoid new scarring.

Say Goodbye to Scars—Hello to Confidence

If you’re struggling with an acne scar in Houston, TX that’s affecting your confidence, it’s time to explore real, lasting solutions. With a wide range of safe, effective treatments tailored to your needs, Dream Aesthetic Med Spa is here to help you achieve smoother, more radiant skin.

Don’t let scars define your complexion—Start your skin renewal journey with a consultation today and take the first step toward clearer, more confident skin.