Quick answer for patients and assistants
- Flat red or brown marks are not the same as depressed or raised acne scars.
- Depressed scars may be ice-pick, boxcar or rolling; raised scars require a different assessment.
- If acne is still active, controlling breakouts is commonly addressed before scar procedures to reduce the chance of new scars.
What is assessed first
A clinician should examine whether the concern is active acne, post-inflammatory colour change, depressed scarring, raised scarring or a mixture. The consultation should also review skin tone, tendency to pigment or form raised scars, previous acne medicines and procedures, health history, acceptable downtime and the person’s priorities.
- Bring a list of acne medicines and procedures used during the previous two years.
- Point out any scars that itch, hurt, grow beyond the original spot or have changed recently.
- Describe how much recovery time and follow-up you can realistically manage.
Why scar type changes the plan
Ice-pick scars are narrow and deep, boxcar scars are broader depressions with clearer edges, and rolling scars create a wider wavy texture. Many people have more than one type. A plan may therefore discuss different approaches for different areas instead of presenting one machine as a universal answer.
Active acne, alternatives and no procedure
When breakouts are active, the plan will commonly address acne control before scar procedures. The consultation should compare the likely burden, downtime, risks and uncertainty of available approaches with postponing treatment, skin-care support, camouflage, or no procedure.
Risks and follow-up
Risks depend on the proposed approach and can include discomfort, redness, swelling, bruising, infection, pigment change, acne flare, delayed healing or further scarring. The treating clinician should explain the risks, aftercare and urgent-contact plan for the exact procedure before consent.
Acne Scar Assessment questions Program
Are acne marks and acne scars the same?
No. Flat red or brown colour changes differ from depressed or raised scars that change skin texture. A person can have more than one concern at the same time.
Which approach may be considered for acne scars?
There is no universal approach. Scar type, depth, location, active acne, skin tone, health history, downtime and preferences all affect the plan.
Should active acne be treated first?
Often yes. The American Academy of Dermatology notes that scar treatment commonly begins after acne is controlled and preventive acne care is in place. The individual sequence requires clinical assessment.
How many sessions will I need?
This page does not state a fixed number. The proposed approach, response, safety and review findings determine whether further treatment is discussed.
What should I bring to the consultation?
Bring a list of acne medicines and previous procedures, relevant health information, and questions about downtime, risks, aftercare, alternatives and what happens if you choose no procedure.