Acne can be a challenging skin journey in itself, but for many, the battle doesn’t end even when the breakouts stop. Left behind are often frustrating, stubborn acne scars – a constant reminder of past flare-ups. If you’ve tried everything from TikTok DIY hacks (which can be risky) to over-the-counter serums with little success, you’re not alone.
At Pulse Light Clinic, we treat acne scars based on their type and how they were formed. This guide will walk you through the different kinds of acne scars, why they develop, and most importantly, how we can help smooth, brighten, and rejuvenate your skin.
Why Do Acne Scars Happen in the First Place?
Acne scars form when the skin heals after an inflamed breakout – such as cystic acne or deep pimples. During healing, your body produces collagen:
Too little collagen → Depressed or indented scars
Too much collagen → Raised scars
Pigmentation changes can also occur, making scars more noticeable
1. Atrophic (Depressed) Scars
The most common type of acne scar, appearing as small pits or dents in the skin. Caused by insufficient collagen production during healing.
Subtypes:
Ice Pick Scars – Deep, narrow, and sharp like a tiny puncture
Boxcar Scars – Broad, rectangular depressions with defined edges, common on cheeks and temples
Rolling Scars – Wave-like texture caused by fibrous bands under the skin
Treatment Options:
Advanced Resurfacing & Collagen Remodeling
CO2 Laser Resurfacing – Gold standard for deep pitting & boxcar scars
HALO Laser – Dual resurfacing for texture and tone with faster recovery
Morpheus8 RF Microneedling – Excellent for rolling scars and deep dermal remodeling
Subcision – Breaks scar bands and restores volume for tethered scars
Microneedling-Based Treatments (for milder scars)
Sylfirm X RF Microneedling – Gentle remodeling for sensitive or vascular skin types
Dermapen Microneedling – Builds collagen gradually, great for mild to moderate scarring
2. Hypertrophic and Keloid Scars
Raised, firm scars caused by excess collagen production. More common on the back, chest, shoulders, and jawline.
Types:
Hypertrophic – Remain within the original acne area
Keloid – Extend beyond the original area, often larger and harder to treat
Treatment Options:
Sylfirm X RF Microneedling – Breaks down dense scar tissue while stimulating regeneration
CO2 Laser Resurfacing – Flattens thickened scars and smooths surrounding skin
3. Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)
Dark marks left after inflammation due to excess melanin production — common in deeper skin tones. Not technically a scar, but often just as frustrating.
Treatment Options:
PicoSure Laser – Gently breaks up pigment; suitable for all skin tones
HALO Laser – Improves both tone and texture
BBL – Targets pigmentation while boosting collagen
4. Post-Inflammatory Erythema (PIE)
Red or purple marks after breakouts, caused by dilated blood vessels under the skin.
Treatment Options:
IPL with Nordlys – Reduces redness and inflammation by targeting blood vessels
BBL – Fades PIE and boosts skin clarity
Sylfirm X RF Microneedling – Treats vascular redness; ideal for PIE or rosacea-prone skin
Why Professional Acne Scar Treatment Works Better Than Home Remedies
While at-home solutions might offer temporary relief or slight improvements, they rarely get to the root of the problem. At Pulse Light Clinic, our tailored treatments go deeper — literally and figuratively. We don’t just treat the symptom; we work to restore healthy, smooth skin using industry-leading technology and over two decades of clinical expertise.
What’s more, your skin type, scar type, and personal goals all matter — so we build a personalised plan just for you.
Our Popular Acne Scarring Package
A powerful combination approach for maximum results:
What’s Included:
1 BBL – Targets pigmentation & redness
1 HALO Laser – Resurfaces texture & tone
3 Morpheus8 RF Microneedling – Deep collagen remodeling
1 Subcision – Releases tethered scars & restores volume
Before purchasing the package, we recommend visiting the clinic for a professional skin assessment with one of our senior practitioners or our in-house doctor. You may require fewer treatments, or you might benefit from additional sessions.
Banish Acne Scars for Good
Living with acne scars can feel disheartening, but they don’t have to be permanent. With advanced technology, expert-led care, and a warm, welcoming clinic environment, we can help restore not just your skin, but your confidence, too.
Ready to take the next step? Book your free consultation at Pulse Light Clinic and start your journey to skin you feel good in.
