Acne may fade, but the scars it leaves behind can linger—affecting confidence and skin texture. If you’re wondering, “What’s the best treatment for acne scars?”, the answer depends on your scar type, skin tone, and severity.
From laser resurfacing to microneedling and chemical peels, this guide covers the most effective, dermatologist-approved treatments tailored to your skin needs.
Understanding Types of Acne Scars
Before choosing a treatment, it’s crucial to identify your scar type. Each responds differently to therapy:
| Scar Type | Appearance | Best Treatment Options |
| Ice Pick | Deep and narrow | TCA CROSS, punch excision |
| Boxcar | Broad depressions with sharp edges | Laser, microneedling, fillers |
| Rolling | Wave-like texture | Subcision, microneedling, laser |
| Post-inflammatory Hyperpigmentation | Dark spots, not true scars | Chemical peels, topical creams |
Different types of scars like ice pick, rolling, and boxcar respond to different treatments. As per the American Academy of Dermatology, proper classification is crucial to selecting the right treatment.
What’s the Best Treatment for Acne Scars? Top 6 Dermatologist-Recommended Options
1. Laser Resurfacing
Best for: Boxcar, rolling, and mixed scars
How it works: Lasers remove scarred skin layers and stimulate collagen production.
Types:
- Fractional CO2 laser – For deep scars
- Er:YAG laser – Milder, with shorter downtime
Results: Noticeable improvement after 1–3 sessions
Pros: Precise, dramatic results
Cons: Downtime (5–7 days), can be costly
2. Microneedling with PRP (Vampire Facial)
Best for: Mild to moderate scarring
How it works: Tiny needles create micro-injuries in the skin; Platelet-Rich Plasma boosts healing
Sessions needed: 3–6, spaced a month apart
Pros: Improves texture, tone, and fine lines
Cons: Requires multiple sessions for best results
According to a study published on the NIH, microneedling combined with PRP significantly improves acne scar depth and skin texture over a few sessions.
3. Chemical Peels
Best for: Superficial scars and pigmentation
How it works: Acid solutions exfoliate the top layers of skin, fading discoloration
Common acids: TCA, glycolic acid, salicylic acid
Pros: Affordable, good for dark spots
Cons: Not effective for deep scars
Chemical peels are especially helpful for pigmentation and superficial scarring, as supported by evidence on PubMed Central.
4. Subcision
Best for: Deep rolling scars
How it works: A fine needle breaks the fibrous tissue pulling the skin downward
Often combined with microneedling or fillers
Pros: Instant lifting of scars
Cons: Minor bruising or swelling post-treatment
5. Dermal Fillers
Best for: Atrophic scars (sunken)
How it works: Temporary fillers like hyaluronic acid lift depressed scars
Duration: 6 months to 1 year
Pros: Immediate results
Cons: Temporary, may need repeat treatments
6. TCA CROSS (Chemical Reconstruction of Skin Scars)
Best for: Ice pick scars
How it works: High-concentration trichloroacetic acid is applied directly to each scar
Sessions needed: 3–6, with 3–4 week gaps
Pros: Treats scars lasers can’t reach
Cons: Requires precision—must be done by a skilled dermatologist
For deep ice pick scars, TCA CROSS is a proven technique backed by research on NIH’s database, showing strong collagen stimulation in targeted areas
PRP vs Laser vs Fillers: Which One Should You Choose?
| Treatment | Best For | Downtime | Cost | Number of Sessions |
| Laser | Deep scars, texture | 5–7 days | High | 1–3 |
| Microneedling + PRP | Texture, mild scars | 1–2 days | Moderate | 3–6 |
| Fillers | Volume loss | None | Moderate | 1+ |
| Chemical Peel | Pigmentation | None | Low | 3–6 |
| TCA CROSS | Ice pick scars | Mild | Low | 3–6 |
Local Tip: Choose the Right Clinic for Acne Scar Removal
No matter which treatment you choose, clinic expertise matters most. Look for:
- Certified dermatologists
- Advanced equipment (FDA-approved lasers)
- Transparent pricing and consultations
Bonus Tip: Avoid unverified home remedies or cheap deals from salons—they often worsen scarring.
Cost of Acne Scar Treatments in India
The cost of acne scar treatment in India can vary significantly depending on the procedure, skin condition, and the number of sessions required. Here’s a general idea:
| Treatment Type | Approximate Cost Per Session (INR) |
|---|---|
| Chemical Peels | ₹1,500 – ₹4,000 |
| Microneedling (Dermaroller) | ₹3,000 – ₹7,000 |
| Microneedling with PRP | ₹5,000 – ₹12,000 |
| Laser Resurfacing (Fractional CO2) | ₹6,000 – ₹15,000 |
| TCA CROSS | ₹2,000 – ₹5,000 |
| Subcision | ₹3,000 – ₹8,000 |
Note: Prices vary depending on clinic expertise, technology used, and city. At our clinic in Faridabad, we offer customized acne scar packages after evaluating your skin needs.
Want affordable acne scar treatment?
Book your consultation now to get a personalized quote and treatment roadmap.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can acne scars be permanently removed?
Some treatments can significantly reduce scarring, but complete removal may not be possible. The goal is to improve texture and appearance.
Q: Is acne scar treatment painful?
Most treatments involve minimal discomfort and are performed with numbing creams or local anesthesia.
Q: How soon can I see results?
Results vary. Some notice improvement after 1–2 sessions, while others need multiple treatments over months.
Conclusion: What’s the Best Acne Scar Treatment for You?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to “What’s the best treatment for acne scars?” It depends on your scar type, skin tone, and desired results. While laser resurfacing offers dramatic improvements, microneedling with PRP, TCA CROSS, and chemical peels are also highly effective when done professionally.
Consult a board-certified dermatologist to get a tailored treatment plan that’s safe, effective, and based on your skin’s unique needs.
