What are the treatment options for atrophic scars?

Atrophic scars are depressions caused by reduced or uneven support beneath the skin. Some are broad and shallow, while others have narrow edges or are pulled down by fibrous bands. A clinician first checks whether acne or another active skin condition is still causing new lesions, because treating the cause helps prevent fresh scars.

Microneedling creates controlled tiny injuries that encourage gradual remodelling and may suit some shallow, uneven scars. Acne scar laser treatment uses targeted energy to improve texture, with settings adapted to skin tone and scar pattern. Subcision releases bands that tether a depressed scar to deeper tissue. Dermal fillers can add temporary support beneath selected indentations. More than one approach may be recommended, and treatment is usually planned in stages with time for healing between procedures. Sun protection and gentle aftercare help reduce irritation and pigment changes during recovery.

Arrange assessment before choosing a procedure if scars are changing, painful, raised at the edges, or accompanied by active acne, rash, or infection. After treatment, contact the clinic for spreading redness, increasing pain, pus, blistering, or a delayed reaction rather than trying additional products yourself.

Ask which scar patterns you have, what improvement is realistic, how your skin tone affects energy settings, how many stages may be needed, and what downtime and aftercare to expect.