How to get rid of acne scars

Although acne is a common skin complaint, often this can clear and there are no visible signs that a person ever had this condition.

Date: 15th April 2021

Last reviewed: 10th April 2023

How to get rid of acne scars

Although acne is a common skin complaint, often this can clear and there are no visible signs that a person ever had this condition. Unfortunately, with cases of severe acne, it is the case that many people will face the prospect of being left with scars long after the acne itself has cleared. This leads to people exploring how to get rid of acne scars and what acne scar treatment options exist.

When considering how to remove acne scars, it is important to realise that scars can present in different ways. There are 3 types of scars that are caused by acne:

Atrophic scars

This type of scarring leads to indentations in the skin. They are caused by the skin not creating enough fibroblasts during the healing process. Fibroblasts are cells that are needed as the skin recovers from a wound.

Hypertrophic scars

These are the opposite to atrophic scars in both appearance and cause. These scars are raised above the surface of the skin and are caused by an overproduction of fibroblasts.

Keloid scars

Keloid scars are similar to hypertrophic scars but they tend to be much thicker than the original spot that was present. They can be red or brown in appearance and are known to cause itching and pain in some people.

Do scars from acne go away?

When considering how to get rid of acne scars, many people are left wondering if their scars will go away on their own. Research has shown that acne and the scars that are caused by severe cases do more than just affect a person physically: there is a significant impact on people’s mental health and confidence levels. This may lead to them avoiding acne scar removal in the hope that the issue will resolve itself.

Whilst it is possible that some acne scars will fade as a person ages, this is not the case with keloid or atrophic scars. In fact, it is common to seek acne scar treatment with these types of scarring as they tend to worsen with age. The ageing process sees the skin lose some of its firmness and this can lead to atrophic scars, in particular, looking more pronounced. When this happens it often leads to people researching how to remove acne scars and to consider the treatments that are available to them.

How long does it take for acne scars to go away?

Acne scar treatment options vary from person to person. The time it takes for acne scars to go away will depend upon the treatment that is being used as well as the extent of the scarring to start with. It is important to consult with a specialist who is able to assess the extent of your scarring who will then develop a treatment plan for you. Acne scar treatment will not eliminate scarring 100% as scars represent permanent damage to the skin. However, developments in this area over recent years mean that sufferers can experience substantial and sustained improvement.

Acne scar treatment will usually take between 1 and 3 treatments with each treatment been several weeks apart. Each session can last anywhere from a few minutes up to an hour. The results from treatment are not instant and it may take 7-10 days before you are able to recognise any significant difference.

How do you get rid of acne scars naturally?

Those with scarring may wish to seek alternatives to the range of acne scar treatment options that are available. This may lead to them considering natural remedies in an attempt to reduce the presence of scars. Although research may be lacking as to the full effectiveness of such options, these are some of the most common:

Rosehip seed oil

Commonly marketed as an anti-ageing product, there are claims that its use can also be effective in reducing the appearance of scars.

Black seed oil

Also known as nigella sativa this is a commonly used medicinal plant. As well as being an anti-inflammatory, it is said to have antibacterial and antiviral properties. It is also believed that it could be useful in preventing acne in the first place.

Honey

This has been used for many years as a way of helping with burns and wounds. It is believed to have antibacterial qualities and can assist with speeding up the healing process.

Lemon juice

There is very limited evidence to show that this is an effective method of getting rid of acne scars. Those who support its use claim that it reduces discolouration and evens out skin tone. As it is acidic, it should only small amounts should be applied.

Aloe vera

People believe that this may be useful when it comes to reducing acne scars as it can aid the healing process. Claims suggest that it can reduce inflammation and the size of any scar tissue.

What are the best treatments for acne scars?

When considering acne scar removal, the best treatment will depend upon the type of scarring that is present as well as the extent of this. At Cadogan Clinic the most up to date and effective methods are used, including:

Chemical skin peels
IPL Treatment
Laser skin resurfacing
Microneedling
High-energy devices, e.g. Lasemar™ and Enerjet™

A consultation with a leading dermatologist will enlighten you in terms of what will be the best treatment options for you. However, in terms of what has proven to be highly effective, when proven an appropriate treatment by an expert, are the use of Lasermar ™ and Enerjet ™. These two devices are at the cutting edge of technology and are the most up to date acne scar treatment options available. There are very few practitioners who are qualified to deliver these forms of treatment, but fortunately, those at Cadogan Clinic are amongst those that are. So, if you are still considering how to get rid of acne scars, now could be the perfect time to book a consultation and look forward to beginning your treatment.

Words From Our Founder

Dr. Susan Mayou

Addressing acne scarring is about more than just improving the appearance of the skin; it also restores confidence and quality of life, allowing patients to go makeup free and show their skin freely. While treatments can effectively reduce scars, it's key to address the underlying cause of the acne to prevent further scarring. In my practice I emphasise the importance of a rounded approach, combining targeted acne therapies with ongoing scar management. By addressing both cause and consequence, we give patients a full treatment which tackles current concerns and prevents further issues.

Dr. Susan Mayou

Treatments mentioned in this article

Dermatology

Acne Treatments

Treat active acne and problematic skin to smooth blemishes, enlarged pores, and congestion.

Body Surgery

Scar Revision

Scar revision and reduction can surgically or non-surgically improve the appearance of a scar.

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