What causes acne scars?

Deep, swollen, or cyst-like acne can injure the support structure beneath the surface. If the skin makes too little collagen during repair, a depressed scar may remain, such as a narrow opening or a shallow rolling hollow. If it makes too much collagen, a raised, firm scar can develop. Picking, squeezing, or repeatedly irritating spots can push inflammation deeper and prolong healing.

Flat red, brown, or grey marks after acne are often changes in colour rather than true scars. They can fade gradually, while a change in skin texture is more likely to need targeted treatment.

Treat active acne early and avoid squeezing lesions. Use a gentle cleanser, non-comedogenic moisturiser, and daily broad-spectrum sun protection to reduce lingering colour contrast. A dermatologist can match treatment to the scar type; options may include prescription acne control, procedures that remodel depressed scars, or treatment for raised tissue. Several approaches may be combined over time.

Book a dermatology visit when acne is painful, deep, repeatedly scarring, or affecting your confidence. Seek earlier advice if a raised area grows, bleeds, becomes very tender, or changes quickly. Treating active inflammation matters before focusing on texture, because new lesions can create additional scars.

Ask whether you have scars, colour marks, or both; what acne treatment can prevent new injury; and which procedure suits your scar shape and skin tone. Ask about expected healing, sun protection, and how treatment will be staged.