Acne Scar Treatment

What Are Acne Scar Treatments?

Acne scar treatments are medical procedures that target the visible effects of past acne outbreaks, including texture irregularities, pigmentation, and collagen loss. These treatments stimulate the skin’s natural healing processes to restore a smoother, more even complexion.

At Shine Dermatology, our dermatologists use three specialised laser systems to target different types of scars. Each protocol is customised based on scar depth, skin sensitivity, and recovery needs to ensure optimal outcomes.

How Do Laser Acne Scar Treatments Work?

Laser treatments work by triggering controlled skin renewal:

• Ablative lasers (e.g. Fractional CO₂): Remove micro-layers of damaged skin and stimulate collagen regeneration to reduce scar depth.

• Non-ablative lasers (e.g. Picosecond Laser): Deliver high-energy pulses to remodel deeper skin layers and break down pigmentation with minimal surface disruption.

• Vascular lasers (e.g. Pulsed Dye Laser): Target blood vessels to reduce redness and post-acne inflammation without damaging surrounding tissue.

By combining these modalities, we create a layered treatment approach that addresses both surface and structural scarring.

Targeted Laser Treatments for Specific Scar Types

At Shine Dermatology, we assess each patient’s scar type and customise treatment accordingly. Here’s how our lasers work across different conditions:

1. Fractional CO₂ Laser – Best for Deep, Textured Scars

This laser combines ablative and fractional technology to smooth pitted or rolling scars. It removes damaged tissue and stimulates new collagen to rebuild the dermal structure.

• Ideal For: Icepick, boxcar, or rolling scars

• Benefits: Noticeable textural improvement, long-term results, and adjustable intensity

• Sessions: 4–6, spaced 4–8 weeks apart

• Downtime: 5–7 days of redness and peeling

2. Picosecond Laser – Best for Pigmentation and Shallow Scars

Using ultra-short pulses, this laser shatters pigment clusters and initiates deep collagen remodeling with minimal surface damage. It is safe for all skin tones and effective in treating both discoloration and mild textural concerns.

• Ideal For: Brown/red acne marks, shallow scars, sensitive or darker skin

• Benefits: Minimal discomfort, no downtime, safe for darker skin types

• Sessions: 4–6, spaced 4–6 weeks apart

• Downtime: Mild redness for 24–48 hours

3. Pulsed Dye Laser – Best for Redness and Vascular Scars

This laser specifically targets dilated capillaries to treat post-acne redness (post-inflammatory erythema). It’s gentle, fast, and requires no recovery time.

• Ideal For: Persistent redness, vascular scars, rosacea-prone skin

• Benefits: Fast treatment, no downtime, suitable for sensitive skin

• Sessions: 4–6, spaced 4–6 weeks apart

• Downtime: Redness or mild bruising for 12–24 hours

Why Choose Shine Dermatology’s Laser Acne Scar Treatments?

✓ Non-invasive: No surgery, incisions, or long recovery
✓ Safe for all skin tones: Settings adjusted to reduce pigmentation risk
✓ Customised care: Treatment tailored to scar type and skin condition
✓ Long-term results: Collagen remodeling continues months after final session
✓ Natural finish: We prioritise subtle, refined improvements—never overdone

When Should You Consider Treatment?

Acne scar treatments are suitable if you experience:

• Textural changes: Pitted or uneven skin surface

• Pigmentation: Brown or red spots left behind by acne

• Redness: Persistent post-inflammatory erythema

• Preventive care: To minimise scarring from recent breakouts

Ideal candidates are adults with controlled acne and a commitment to post-treatment skincare.

Results Timeline & Recovery

Post-care includes gentle cleansing, avoiding sun exposure, and using moisturisers and sunscreen to support healing.

Safety and Side Effects

While treatments are generally safe, potential side effects include:

• Temporary redness or swelling (especially after ablative treatments)

• Hyperpigmentation, especially in darker skin types—minimised with correct settings

• Rare infection risk, mitigated with sterile technique and aftercare protocols

Our dermatologists conduct thorough assessments to minimise risk and monitor recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Which treatment works best for deep acne scars?
Fractional CO₂ Laser provides the most dramatic improvement for deep, textured scars due to its ability to stimulate collagen and resurface the skin.

2. Can I treat both pigmentation and texture?
Yes. A combination of Picosecond Laser and Fractional CO₂ offers comprehensive results for both surface discoloration and deep scarring.

3. Is the treatment painful?
Topical anaesthetic is applied beforehand. Discomfort is usually mild and temporary.

4. When will I see results?
Pigmentation may lighten within 1–2 weeks. Textural improvement appears gradually over 2–6 months as collagen regenerates.

5. Can these be done on the body (e.g., back, chest)?
Yes, all lasers can be safely used on body areas with settings adjusted for thicker skin.

6. Are lasers safe for dark skin?
Yes. Picosecond and Pulsed Dye Lasers are suitable for all Fitzpatrick skin types. Fractional CO₂ is best for lighter skin tones.

7. How many sessions will I need?
Mild cases may need 3–4 sessions; deeper scars may require 5 or more.

8. Can I apply makeup after treatment?
Makeup can be applied 24 hours after non-ablative treatments. For CO₂ laser, wait until peeling ends (typically 5–7 days).

9. Are results permanent?
Yes, for textural improvement. Pigmentation may recur if acne returns, so ongoing skincare is key.

10. Can treatment prevent future scarring?
Early treatment can reduce inflammation and pigmentation, minimising the chance of permanent scarring.

Book Your Personalised Acne Scar Assessment Today

Ready to restore smoother, clearer skin? [Contact Shine Dermatology] to schedule your consultation and begin your personalised treatment journey with Singapore’s trusted acne scar experts.