Laser treatments can be an effective option for improving the appearance of certain acne scars. They work by resurfacing the skin or stimulating collagen production, helping smooth uneven texture and make scars less noticeable. The best type of laser depends on the type of scar, skin tone, medical history, and treatment goals.
How laser treatments work
Different lasers target different aspects of acne scarring. They may:
- Stimulate the production of new collagen and elastin.
- Remove or remodel damaged layers of skin.
- Improve skin texture and smoothness.
- Reduce redness associated with some acne scars.
Because acne scars vary in depth and shape, treatment is tailored to the individual.
Types of laser treatments
Common approaches include:
- Ablative lasers: These remove thin layers of skin to encourage new skin growth and collagen remodeling. They can produce significant improvement but usually involve more downtime.
- Non-ablative lasers: These heat the deeper layers of the skin without removing the surface. Recovery is generally quicker, though multiple sessions are often needed.
- Fractional lasers: Available in both ablative and non-ablative forms, these treat small columns of skin while leaving surrounding tissue intact. This pattern promotes healing and can shorten recovery compared with treating the entire skin surface.
Potential benefits
Laser treatments may help:
- Improve the appearance of rolling and boxcar acne scars.
- Soften the edges of some depressed scars.
- Smooth uneven skin texture.
- Reduce persistent redness left behind after acne in some cases.
- Boost confidence by improving the overall appearance of the skin.
While many people see noticeable improvement, laser treatments typically reduce the visibility of scars rather than eliminate them completely.
What to expect
Most people require a series of treatment sessions for the best results. Improvement develops gradually over several months as collagen remodels.
Temporary side effects may include:
- Redness
- Swelling
- Mild discomfort
- Peeling or crusting, depending on the type of laser used
The amount of downtime varies from a few days to several weeks, depending on the laser and treatment intensity.
Combination with other treatments
Laser therapy is often combined with other scar treatments for better results, such as:
- Microneedling
- Subcision
- Dermal fillers for selected depressed scars
- Chemical peels
- Prescription topical skincare products
Combining treatments can address different scar characteristics more effectively than a single therapy alone.
Important considerations
Laser treatment is generally most effective once active acne is under good control, since new breakouts can lead to additional scarring.
Before recommending a laser procedure, a dermatologist will consider factors such as:
- The type and severity of your scars.
- Your skin tone, as some lasers carry a higher risk of pigment changes in darker skin.
- Your medical history and current medications.
- Your expectations and tolerance for recovery time.
Following post-treatment instructions—especially protecting the treated skin from the sun with a broad-spectrum sunscreen and avoiding picking or irritating the skin—is important for healing and achieving the best possible outcome.
When selected appropriately and performed by an experienced clinician, laser treatments can be a valuable part of a comprehensive acne scar management plan.
