What should you know about CO2 laser for ice pick scars?

Ice pick scars are small, narrow depressions that extend into the skin. CO2 laser can remove or heat controlled columns of tissue, encouraging healing and collagen remodeling around the scar. Because the opening is narrow and the base may be deep, surface resurfacing may improve texture without fully filling the depression.

A consultation should check whether acne is active, whether the scars are truly ice pick scars rather than rolling or boxcar scars, and how your skin tends to pigment after inflammation. Redness, swelling, crusting, infection, delayed healing, and temporary or lasting pigment changes are possible after laser treatment.

Ask whether targeted treatment, fractional resurfacing, scar-focused procedures, or a combination is appropriate. [Acne Scar Laser Treatment](/treatments/laser-and-energy/acne-scar-laser-treatment/) discusses the broader goal, while [CO2 Laser Resurfacing](/treatments/laser-and-energy/co2-laser-resurfacing/) and [Laser Skin Resurfacing](/treatments/laser-and-energy/laser-skin-resurfacing/) explain related approaches. The [CO2 Laser](/technology/co2-laser/) page covers the technology.

Before treatment, follow advice about sun exposure, active acne, skincare, and medicines. Afterward, cleanse gently, use the recommended healing products, do not pick crusts, and protect the area from sunlight. Confirm when you can restart acne treatments, makeup, shaving, and exercise.

Contact the clinic for worsening pain, spreading redness, pus, fever, or a wound that is not healing as expected. Seek review if new acne becomes severe during recovery or if pigment changes continue to deepen or spread. Sudden facial swelling or breathing difficulty needs urgent medical attention.

Are these definitely ice pick scars, and is my acne controlled? Will you use fractional or targeted treatment? How much improvement is realistic for deep narrow scars, what downtime should I plan for, and how will pigment risk be managed?