In the journey towards radiant and healthy skin, few challenges are as frustrating as the persistent impact of acne - those stubborn scars that seem to resist over the years. Acne scars not only affect physical appearance but can also take a toll on one's self-esteem, serving as a constant reminder of past battles with breakouts.

Welcome to Clear Skin Clinics Pune, where we understand the importance of addressing acne scars and restoring not just the skin's texture but also the confidence that lies within. With advancements in dermatological science and a team of skilled professionals, a wide range of acne scar treatment options are tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual.

Let’s understand acne scars with clarity and explore the benefits of advanced acne scar treatment options at Clear Skin Clinics, Pune.

What Are Acne Scars?

Acne scars are those unpleasant marks that last on your skin even after your pimples have cleared up. They can be a real pain, especially on your face. But don't worry; you are not alone. Acne scars are super common. In fact, up to 80-90% of adolescents and young adults. But why are they a common concern? There are a few reasons, including:

• Acne scars, especially on the face, are more noticeable. As a result, you may feel extremely self-conscious and uneasy. And, in a society where physical appearance is so important, it's simple to see why acne scars may be a significant concern.
• Also, acne scars can be very difficult to treat. There are multiple treatment options available, but there is no one-size-fits-all solution. And even with treatment, seeing results might take a long time and effort.

How do these scars form? When acne develops on your skin, your body's natural healing mechanisms activate, just as they would for any injury or illness. However, this system isn't always flawless.

Types of Acne Scars

Based on the occurrence and severity, acne scars are categorized into three main types: atrophic scars and hypertrophic and keloid scars.

• Atrophic Acne Scars

Atrophic scars are the most common type of acne scars that occur during the healing process of cystic acne. During the healing process, the skin tissue is lost or damaged due to a lack of collagen production, which is essential for proper skin repair.

As a result, atrophic scars form beneath the skin's top layer. Without collagen, the skin cannot fully restore its original structure. Consequently, atrophic scars manifest as holes or gaps in the skin where collagen depletion has occurred. They may also appear as shallow depressions or craters.

Atrophic acne scars are further classified into three types: boxcar scars, ice pick scars, and rolling scars.

Boxcar Scars: Boxcar acne scars are noticeable depressions in the skin that resemble small boxes, characterized by their sharp, well-defined edges. These scars arise from widespread acne breakouts, chickenpox, or varicella infections, which cause an itchy rash with fluid-filled blisters. Boxcar scars typically develop on areas with thicker skin, such as the lower cheeks and jawline.

Ice Pick Scars: Ice pick scars are distinguished by thin, deep indentations on the skin's surface. These scars are common on the cheeks and can be difficult to cure, needing persistent and aggressive treatments.

Rolling Scars: Rolling scars, unlike well-defined scars, create a wavy, bumpy texture on the skin's surface. Rolling acne marks form when collagen attempts to heal the wound left by a pimple. During the healing process, the body creates strings or bands of protein that connect the outermost skin layer (epidermis) to the deeper layers (subcutaneous tissue). This tethering pulls the epidermis downward, attaching it to deeper layers where it doesn't naturally belong. This phenomenon creates the characteristic rolling effect associated with rolling acne scars.

• Hypertrophic Acne Scar

Just opposite to atrophic acne scars, hypertrophic scars occur due to the overproduction of collagen. This excessive collagen during wound healing causes accumulation of this protein at the wound site, resulting in raised or bumpy scars.

Hypertrophic scars are typically characterized by a pink or red colour. They can develop in areas where wounds or injuries fail to heal fully. Several factors, like the location of acne or wound and infection, can contribute to the formation of hypertrophic acne scars.

• Keloid Scars

Keloid acne scars are similar to hypertrophic acne scars. There is only one difference: unlike hypertrophic scars, keloid scars can expand beyond their boundaries and become significantly larger than the initial wound. Keloids typically exhibit a pink or purple colouration.

The exact causes and development of keloids are not yet fully understood. However, it is known that there is a familial tendency for keloid formation, meaning they often run in families. Moreover, individuals with darker or more pigmented skin are more prone to developing keloids.

Causes and Risk Factors

While there is no single cause of acne scars, several factors can contribute to developing those stubborn marks after acne. Here are the most common causes and risk factors associated with scar formation:

• Inflammation

When an acne blemish becomes inflamed, it damages the skin's collagen and elastin protein production, which are responsible for its strength and elasticity; when they are damaged, the skin can heal with a scar.

• Severity of Acne

The more severe your acne is, the more chances you have to get scars. This is because severe acne causes more inflammation and tissue damage, interrupting the normal healing process and  resulting in scar formation.

• Picking, Squeezing, or Popping Pimples

It feels very tempting to pick or pop the pimple, but it could further damage your skin and increase the risk of scarring because when you pop your pimple, it gives a chance to enter the bacteria in your skin and prolong the inflammation.

• Family History

If you have a family history of acne scars, you are more likely to develop them because acne scars can pass from grandparents.

• Age

Acne scars can occur at any age, but young people are prone to acne scars because more youthful skin is thinner and more delicate, making it more susceptible to scarring.

• Skin Type

Skin is one of the significant risk factors for acne scars. If you have oily skin, you are more likely to develop acne; therefore, you are at a higher risk of scarring because oily skin tends to clog pores more easily, leading to inflammation and breakouts.

• Ethnicity

People with darker skin tones are at a higher risk of developing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), which can make pimple scars more noticeable.

• Lifestyle Factors

Certain lifestyle factors like smoking can also increase the chances of scarring. The chemicals in cigarettes reduce blood flow to the skin, which can hinder the delivery of oxygen and nutrients needed for proper healing.

• Certain Medications

Some medications, such as corticosteroids, can increase the risk of keloid scars. Corticosteroids can reduce the immune system and affect the normal healing process.

• Delay in treatment

Early diagnosis and treatment of acne can help you to reduce scarring. If you leave acne untreated, the inflammation and tissue damage can worsen, making scars more likely to develop.

Note: Not everyone with acne will develop pimple scars, and the severity of scarring can vary greatly from person to person. Seeking early and appropriate treatment for acne can help minimize the risk of scarring and improve overall skin health.

Importance of Professional Treatment

While several home remedies are available to treat acne scars, these remedies can cause sensitivity or even worsen your scarring. Therefore, it is essential to seek professional treatment. Here are some other compelling reasons to consider professional treatment for acne scars:

Expert Evaluation and Diagnosis: Dermatologists or skincare professionals have extensive training and experience diagnosing acne scars. They will accurately assess the depth, type, and distribution of your scars and prepare a customized treatment plan.

Access to Advanced Treatment Options: Dermatologists offer a wide range of advanced treatment options that may not be available over the counter or through general practitioners. These treatments include:

• Laser Resurfacing
• PRP Treatment
• Microneedling
• Chemical Peels
• Dermal Fillers

Safety and Efficacy: Dermatologists are trained and experienced in providing all scar treatments, ensuring safety and minimizing potential side effects. They closely monitor your progress and adjust treatment plans to maximize outcomes.

Holistic Approach: Our expert dermatologists  address the physical appearance of acne scars and consider their emotional and psychological impact on you. We provide complete care, including counselling and support, helping you develop positive self-esteem and cope with any emotional challenges associated with your scars.

Seeking professional treatment for acne scars is an investment in your self-esteem, confidence, and overall well-being. 

With the expertise and advanced treatment options available at Clear Skin Clinic, you can effectively address your acne scars and reclaim a clear, healthy complexion.

At Clear Skin Clinics Pune, we are committed to providing you with the highest level of care for acne scar treatment. Our board-certified dermatologists possess extensive experience and utilize the latest advancements in scar management techniques. We believe that each patient's journey to clearer skin is unique, and we tailor our treatment plans to address individual needs and concerns.

Treatment Options for Acne Scars

Acne scars are frustrating and bothersome side effects of acne breakouts, but there is good news that they are treatable. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution for treating acne scars, several effective face scar treatment options are available depending on the type and severity of your scars and your individual preferences and lifestyle.

Topical Treatments

If you have mild acne scars, a dermatologist may recommend topical treatments, such as alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), retinoids, and salicylic acid, as first-line treatments for acne scars. These medications are directly applied to the skin, improving the appearance of scars by reducing inflammation, stimulating collagen production, or exfoliating the skin. These topical treatments are available in various formulations, like creams and lotions.

• Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA): AHAs, such as glycolic acid and lactic acid, work as chemical exfoliants that help to reduce scars by removing the outer layer of skin and preventing clogged pores.
• Retinoids: Retinoids are vitamin A derivatives that speed up cell regeneration and improve skin texture. However, retinoids can increase your skin's sensitivity to the sun. Therefore, you need to wear sunscreen while using retinoids.
• Salicylic Acid: Salicylic acid is another effective acne scar treatment that clears pores, reduces inflammation, and promotes skin exfoliation.

Remember, these treatments can even worsen your scarring if not used correctly. Therefore, use these treatments with a dermatologist’s recommendation only.

Laser Resurfacing 

Laser resurfacing is a popular acne scar treatment procedure that uses laser technology like CO2 laser to remove the top layer of skin, stimulating collagen production and smoothing out scar tissue. There are different types of laser resurfacing, including:

• Ablative Laser Resurfacing: This type of laser resurfacing removes the top layer of skin. It is the most effective type of laser resurfacing for treating deep scars but has the longest recovery time.
• Non-ablative Laser Resurfacing: Unlike ablative laser resurfacing, it does not remove the entire top layer of skin. It promotes collagen production.
• Erbium Glass Fractional laser resurfacing: In this type of laser resurfacing, the dermatologist creates tiny holes in the skin, stimulating collagen production. This can help to improve the appearance of scars, but it may take several treatments to see results.

Laser surfacing can help reduce both atrophic and hypertrophic acne scars. We will assess your skin and acne scar severity to determine the suitable laser resurfacing treatment approach.

Dermabrasion

Dermabrasion is a highly effective treatment for shallow boxcars or rolling scars. But it can also help to reduce the appearance of deep acne scars.

How does it work? During the treatment, we use a wired brush or wheel to exfoliate the outermost layer of the skin. This process removes the damaged skin cells and reveals new, healthier cells.

The procedure takes about 30 minutes to an hour. After the procedure, the treated area will be red and swollen, but normally, it resolves within a few hours, so you need not worry about it.

Microneedling

Microneedling is a minimally invasive procedure that helps to treat deep acne scars by stimulating the body’s natural healing process.

The Procedure of Microneedling

The procedure starts with the application of numbing cream. The dermatologist will gently roll the microneedling device on your skin surface to create micro-injuries.  These injuries trigger the body's healing process, which leads to the production of new collagen and elastin. Collagen and elastin are the proteins that give the skin structure and support. When these proteins are produced, the skin becomes thicker and firmer, and the appearance of acne scars and other skin imperfections can be improved.

Recovery Process

After the procedure, you may experience redness and swelling in the treated area. You may also experience some mild bruising or discomfort, which subsides within 2-3 days. Most people can return to normal activities the next day after the procedure. However, you should avoid sun exposure and strenuous activity for a few days to enjoy the long-lasting effects.

Chemical Peels

Chemical peels can treat various types of acne scars, including deep acne scars.

The Procedure of Chemical Peels

A chemical solution is applied to remove the outer skin layer.  The body then begins to heal the treated area, producing new skin cells that are smoother and more even in tone.

There are different types of chemical peels available with different strengths, and some of them can be used at home. However, getting help from a skin care specialist is advisable to use stronger solutions for effective outcomes.

Recovery Process

The recovery time for a chemical peel depends on the type of peel being used. For example, superficial peels typically have a short recovery time of a few days, while medium and deep peels may take several weeks to recover.

Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers are injectable substances used to treat atrophic scars that are depressed or hollow. Dermal filler reduces the appearance of acne scars and gives a smoother skin surface.

The Procedure of Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers are injected into the skin using a fine needle. The filler is then placed into the depressions caused by the scars. The filler will help lift the skin and fill the depressions, making the scars less noticeable.

The results of dermal fillers are immediate and can last for several years. Different types of dermal filler, like hyaluronic acid (HA) and calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA), are available, and the duration of the effects of the injections varies depending on the type of filler used.

PRP Treatment

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment is a relatively new cosmetic procedure that uses a patient's own blood to improve the appearance of their skin. It is often used to treat acne scars, as it can help to stimulate collagen production, improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of scars.

The Procedure of PRP Treatment 

The procedure usually takes 30 minutes to complete. A small amount of your blood is taken, just like a regular blood test. After that, this blood is placed in a centrifuge, spinning at high speeds to separate the platelet-rich plasma from the other components of the blood.

This platelet-rich plasma is applied topically or injected into the acne scars. This platelet-rich blood will promote the formation of new cells and increase the production of elastin and collagen, which enhances the skin's smoothness and reduces the appearance of acne scars.

The Recovery Process

After the procedure, you may experience some mild discomfort, redness, and swelling. However, these side effects usually go away within a few days.

Surgical Treatments

Surgical treatments are more invasive options for acne scar treatment, but they can be effective for deep or severe scars that do not respond to other treatments. Several surgical treatment options are available. Our dermatologist will assess your skin condition and prescribe the most suitable.

At Clear Skin Clinics, we offer Subcision to improve the appearance of acne scars. It is minimally invasive and is used to treat depressed acne scars. In this procedure, a numbing cream is applied to the treated area to reduce discomfort. After that, a small needle is inserted under the skin to break up the scar tissue that is tethering the skin downwards, causing a depressed scar.

The movement of the needle also stimulates the production of new collagen, which helps to fill in and plump up the scar area. After the procedure, you can experience some swelling and bruising, which can be minimized with ice compressing. Also, you can experience some redness and tenderness at the treatment site for a few days.

Other surgical procedures may include punch excision and punch elevation. These procedures are used to treat small, deep and pitted acne scars. In punch excision, a small punch tool removes the scar tissue, and the wound is then closed with a stitch or a skin graft. In punch elevation,  the base of the scar is elevated to make it more level with the surrounding skin.

Before and After Photos

Images speak louder than words. That’s true for any treatment. You can view the images to see the effectiveness of the acne scar treatment. Here are some of the images of our satisfied clients:

Treatment Process

Beginning an acne scar treatment journey may be both exciting and stressful. Therefore, you should have realistic expectations and understand the process to ensure a positive experience. Here is a general outline of the complete acne scar treatment process.

• Initial Consultation

The first and foremost step to start any skin care treatment is consultation with an experienced and board-certified dermatologist. During the consultation, we will evaluate your skin type, severity of acne scars and answer all your questions. We will also assess your medical history to design a customized treatment plan. You should also discuss your goals and expectations from the treatment.

• Treatment Plan

Based on the assessment and discussion, we will recommend a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. This acne marks treatment plan may include topical medications, laser resurfacing, microneedling, chemical peels, PRP therapy or dermal fillers.

• Treatment Procedure

The treatment procedure involves two steps: preparation and procedure.

Preparation: Depending on the chosen treatment option, the dermatologist may ask you to quit smoking, stop taking certain medications and avoid sun exposure.

Procedure: Different treatment options involve different methods. For example:

1. Topical treatments, such as retinoids and alpha hydroxy acids, are directly applied to the skin.
2. Injectables like corticosteroids and hyaluronic acid fillers are injected into treated areas.
3. Laser resurfacing uses lasers to remove the top layer of skin to improve the appearance of all types of scars.

1. In microneedling, tiny needles create microscopic punctures in the skin to stimulate collagen production and improve the appearance of acne scars.
2. Subcision uses a small needle to break up scar tissue to improve the appearance of deep scars.
3. Dermabrasion uses a rotating abrasive brush to remove the top layer of skin to improve the appearance of all types of scars.
4. Chemical peels use chemicals to remove the top layer of skin, similar to laser resurfacing.
5. In PRP, the patient’s own blood is used to improve collagen production.

• Recovery

After any procedure, your skin needs time to heal. However, the recovery time may vary from patient to patient, depending on the type of procedure chosen, the severity of the acne scar, skin type, and preferences.

Usually, with topical pimple scar removal treatments, you may experience less redness, swelling, and discomfort than with laser resurfacing, microneedling, subcision and dermabrasion. This is because these procedures are minimally invasive. But don’t worry. These side effects subside within a few days, and you can see the improvement in your acne scars. However, seeing the full treatment results may take six to nine months.

So, what are the tips for a successful acne scar treatment journey and smooth recovery?

• Choose a qualified and experienced dermatologist.
• Attend all follow-up appointments to maintain the results.
• Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully.
• Set realistic expectations.
• Be patient.
• Avoid sun exposure and use sunscreen while going out in the sun.
• Keep the treated area clean and dry.
• Do not pick or scratch at the treated area.

Customized Treatment Plans

At Clear Skin Clinics Pune, we understand that every patient's needs are unique. That's why we take a personalized approach to treat your acne scar. We believe the best way to achieve optimal results is to create a treatment plan tailored to each individual's needs and goals.

How do we tailor treatment plans to your individual needs?

• Complete Assessment: There are many types of acne scars, and each type requires a different approach to treatment. Therefore, we carefully assess the type and severity of your acne scars to determine the best treatment for you.
• Consider Your Preferences: We consider your preferences and concerns when establishing your treatment plan. We discuss your treatment expectations, any potential side effects you are concerned about, and your general comfort level with various treatment options. This open communication ensures that we are on the same page as you and that you feel at ease and informed throughout the treatment procedure.
• We Offer Customised Treatment Plans: Based on our assessment and discussions, we present various treatment options suited to your needs. We explain the pros and cons of each option so that you can make an informed decision about the best course of skin treatment for acne scars. We may recommend a single or combination of treatments, depending on the complexity of your acne scars and your individual preferences.
• Monitoring and Adjustments: Our duty does not stop with offering treatment plans. We closely monitor your progress throughout your treatment journey and make required adjustments to ensure you are on track to achieving your goals. We also address any side effects or concerns you may have during the treatment.

We believe that everyone deserves to feel confident in their skin. By tailoring treatment plans to individual needs, we can help patients achieve their goals and feel good about themselves.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Are acne scars permanent?

No. While acne can leave behind stubborn marks or even pitted scars on your skin, with a proper treatment plan, these imperfections can improve over time. With time, you may notice a reduction in the visibility of your acne marks and a decrease in the depth of your scars. Applying treatments and cosmetic procedures can reduce their appearance, particularly for marks and scars that persist for an extended period.

Q2: How long does it take to see results from acne scar treatment?

The amount of time it takes to see results from acne scar treatment varies depending on the type of treatment you choose and the severity of your scars. Generally, you can expect results within a few weeks or months.

Q3: What causes acne scars on the face?

Acne scars are a byproduct of the skin's healing response to deep acne breakouts. Several factors contribute to scar development, including severe acne, genetic predisposition, prolonged inflammation, collagen depletion, and tissue injury.

Q4: Can acne scars be removed without surgery?

While surgery can be an effective option for treating acne scars, it is not always necessary. In most cases, less invasive treatments such as laser resurfacing, chemical peels, or microdermabrasion may be sufficient. The best way to determine the most appropriate treatment for your acne scars is to consult a dermatologist. They will be able to assess your scars and recommend the best course of treatment.

Q5: How much does acne scar treatment cost?

The cost of acne scar treatment will vary depending on the type of treatment you receive, the severity of your scars, and the location of your treatment provider. However, based on the treatment plan, you can expect to pay anywhere from 1000 to 15000 INR.

Testimonials and Reviews

Akansha Bapat

She lives in the USA. She has been dealing with acne scars for the last one year. Then she learned about Dr Manali Shah, an experienced dermatologist at our clinic, through her brother. After an online consultation, she was so impressed that she came to India for treatment. She had 3 sessions of laser treatment, and she had seen significant improvement in her acne scars. She is so impressed with the result that she highly recommends Clear Skin Clinics for acne scar treatment.

Nushrat Azmi

Another patient, Nushrat Azmi, was struggling with severe acne, but after visiting Clear Skin Clinics, she experienced significant improvement within 6 months of the treatment.

Cost of Acne Scar Treatment

The cost of face scar removal treatment can vary widely depending on the type of treatment, the scars' severity, and the clinic's location.

The Type of Treatment: Some treatments are more expensive than others. For example, laser resurfacing is typically more expensive than topical treatments.

The Severity of The Scars: The more severe scars you have, the more treatment sessions are required, increasing the treatment cost.

The Location of Clinic: Clinics in larger cities or areas with a higher cost of living may charge more than those in smaller towns or rural areas.

The Experience of the Dermatologist: More experienced dermatologists may charge more than those with less experience. But don't compromise your safety over cost. Always choose an experienced dermatologist.

Here is a breakdown of the average cost for some common acne mark treatments:

• Chemical Peels: The cost of chemical peeling can range from Rs.1000 to Rs.9000, depending on whether it is a mild, medium, or deep chemical peel.
• Laser Resurfacing: A single CO2 laser therapy session costs between Rs. 3000 and Rs. 7000.
• PRP Treatment: PRP therapy might cost between Rs 8000 and Rs 10,000 for each session.
• Microneedling: Microneedling treatment costs can range between Rs. 8000 and Rs. 15000.
• Dermabrasion: The cost of dermabrasion ranges between Rs 1000 and Rs 2000.
• Dermal Fillers: Dermal filler treatment costs between Rs. 20,000 and Rs. 50,000.

Book Your Consultation Today

Acne scars can be very frustrating, but with proper assessment and the right treatment approach, you can get rid of those stubborn acne marks. Several treatment options are available, including PRP, dermal filler, laser resurfacing, microneedling and chemical peels.

At Clear Skin Clinics, we offer various safe and effective acne scar treatments to help you achieve the clear, healthy skin you deserve. We are committed to providing personalized acne scar treatment tailored to each individual's unique needs and goals.

We believe that patient education is essential for achieving optimal results. We provide comprehensive information about your acne scars, available treatment options, and how to care for your skin after treatment. We also offer ongoing support and encouragement throughout your journey.

We don’t stop here. We also provide additional treatment options like Q Switched NDYAG Laser Treatment and skin care tips to get healthy, glowing skin.

So, what are you waiting for? Book your consultation with Clear Skin Clinics and take the first step towards transforming your skin. We will carefully assess your unique needs, discuss your goals, and tailor your treatment plan.

We look forward to helping you achieve the beautiful, scar-free skin you deserve!