Depressed scars that linger on the skin long after acne has subsided are often the first thing many people notice in the mirror. We frequently hear the question, "Can this scar really improve with laser treatment?" The short answer is that choosing a laser tailored to the scar's shape, depth, and skin condition can help restore a smooth skin texture. However, individual results may vary, so a plan suited to your specific condition is more important than sticking to just one method.
Why do depressed acne scars form and how do they appear?
When acne heals after deep inflammation, if the collagen in the skin is not sufficiently restored, it can leave behind depressed acne scars with a sunken surface. This can make the skin texture uneven, like an orange peel, giving an older or untidy impression.
Such marks are difficult to fill in naturally. Therefore, treatment is needed to replenish the deficient areas and boost skin regeneration.
Laser resurfacing: effective, but with recovery burden
Laser resurfacing is often the first method that comes to mind for treating depressed scars. While it shows positive changes as new skin grows after treatment, a single session can be quite stimulating to the skin, causing redness and requiring time to recover. This is why many people prefer to undergo the procedure when they have ample time.
It's generally better to start treatment as early as possible, but with many factors to consider like recovery time and skin irritation, resurfacing is often seen as a "last resort." So, are there other laser treatment options available?
Lasers that boost skin regeneration
What's important in treating depressed scars is how actively skin regeneration occurs and how well deficient areas can be filled.
The key is not the intensity of the resurfacing, but how well uniform regeneration can be induced in the scar area.
When skin regeneration needs to be further activated, lasers like Ultrapulse Encore and StarLux are chosen to induce uniform regeneration in the scar area and help new skin fill in more quickly.
Treatment options vary by scar condition
Each person's scar condition is different. Fraxel DUAL works on collagen and elastin regeneration to help new skin fill in quickly, and it is a laser treatment that can bring good changes to small or relatively shallow scars.
Potenza, which uses momentary radiofrequency to induce coagulation in skin cells and aid collagen production, also works on overall skin elasticity, including pore reduction. It is gaining attention as a laser that helps improve acne scars and restore healthy, smooth skin texture.
Below is a summary of approaches by scar condition:
| Scar Condition | Approach | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Deep and wide depressed scars | Strong regeneration induced by laser resurfacing | Longer recovery time, significant skin irritation |
| Scars needing regeneration boost | Ultrapulse Encore, StarLux | Goal is uniform regeneration |
| Small or shallow scars | Fraxel DUAL | Acts on collagen and elastin regeneration |
| When pores and elasticity are also a concern | Potenza | Induces collagen production with radiofrequency |
If scars are a complex mix, rather than trying to solve everything with a single device, a plan that combines several methods step-by-step, such as Premium Customized Acne Scar Care, may be helpful.
For questions, inquire via acne scar laser consultation
What to check before treatment
To proceed with treatment more stably, it is necessary to check if there is any remaining inflammation in the skin. If skin inflammation is not resolved, there is a risk of continuously worsening the condition and repeating a vicious cycle. We recommend checking for any remaining inflammation before undergoing acne scar laser treatment at a dermatology clinic.
Before and after laser treatment, check the following items:
- Confirm if active acne or internal inflammation remains
- Carefully evaluate the depth and extent of the scar
- Determine the timing of the procedure considering the recovery period
- Apply sunscreen diligently
- Continue moisturizing to prevent skin dryness
A plan tailored to your condition determines the results
Even for the same scar trouble, the range of lasers that can be chosen has widened depending on the situation. For better results, it is advisable to carefully assess the condition and match the type of device, treatment duration, and method.
If you diligently apply sunscreen and maintain good moisturizing care to prevent skin dryness after laser treatment, scar treatment, which may have seemed difficult, can lead to significantly clearer skin.
We have summarized laser methods for depressed acne scars by condition. The most accurate way to determine which device is right for your skin is to have your condition checked directly.
💬 Consult NowChief Director Lee Sang-joo (MD, PhD, Yonsei University College of Medicine and Graduate School; Dermatology Resident, Severance Hospital; President, Korean Dermatological Association) Chief Director Lee Sang-joo's Profile First published 2025-04-10 / Last reviewed 2026-06-16
This content is for general information purposes only. Treatment effects and recovery progress may vary by individual, and accurate diagnosis and treatment direction should be determined through in-person consultation with medical staff.