Acne Scars and Uneven Texture

Not all acne scars are the same

There are three main types. Ice pick scars are narrow and deep. Boxcar scars are wider, with sharp edges. Rolling scars are broad, shallow dips that make skin look wavy in side lighting. Many people also have leftover red or brown marks, which are discoloration rather than true scarring and are usually easier to treat.

How scars form

When a breakout is deep and inflamed, it damages the collagen underneath. As the skin heals, it doesn't always rebuild evenly, and that leaves a dent or pit. Cystic acne, picking, waiting a long time to treat breakouts, and genetics all raise the odds of scarring.

What works

Because most people have a mix of scar types, a combination plan usually gets the best results. At CK Plastic Surgery, that can include:

• CO2 laser resurfacing for deeper texture changes
• Secret RF or microneedling to build collagen and soften depressed scars
• PicoWay for leftover discoloration

Treatments are spaced out over several sessions, and skin keeps improving for months afterward as collagen forms.

What to expect

It's best to treat scars once active acne is under control. Most people see a real difference in texture, both in person and in photos, though erasing scars completely is uncommon. Your plan will be built around your skin type and how much downtime you can take.