Many people feel disheartened every time they look in the mirror due to red marks or deeply pitted skin left even after acne has subsided. The first question that comes to mind is usually similar: Will these marks naturally disappear over time? To answer directly, simple pigmentation can fade, but acne scars that have damaged the dermal layer often become more distinct if left untreated.
Why shouldn't acne scars be left untreated?
Acne is not just excessive sebum secretion but an inflammatory disease that affects the dermal layer. The skin is composed of the epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous fat layer, with sebaceous glands located in the dermis. If this area is damaged by inflammation, fibrous tissue is abnormally formed during the healing process, leading to acne scars.
The problem is that scarring is not just a surface issue. If waste product circulation around the lesion is poor, an environment where acne can easily reappear is created, which can lead to a vicious cycle of scarring and recurrence. Therefore, we believe it is important to get an accurate diagnosis and set a direction early on.
It is reported that scars with dermal layer damage are difficult to recover smoothly with the skin's natural regenerative power alone.
Can depressed scars be filled with ointment alone?
Consistently applying scar ointment can be somewhat helpful. However, there are clear limitations to filling deeply pitted marks with ointment alone. If the ingredients do not suit the skin, it could even lead to irritation or breakouts, so caution is needed.
In summary, we recommend using ointment as a supplementary measure and determining the direction of serious scar treatment through dermatological consultation. This is because the approach for red acne scars, which are primarily color changes, and depressed acne scars, where tissue is pitted, is fundamentally different.
Scar treatment is not a one-size-fits-all solution
The reason acne scar management can feel difficult is that the depth of the scar, the presence of inflammation, and skin type vary from person to person. Therefore, a customized approach is needed rather than a uniform method.
In the clinic, it is more common to combine several methods depending on the scar's shape, rather than solving it with a single procedure. Commonly used approaches include:
- Laser treatment to induce regeneration of damaged tissue, gradually fading depressed marks.
- Subcision to separate fibrous bands pulling the skin down, allowing depressed areas to rise.
- Suture-Free Punch for sharply pitted scars.
- Managing inflammation and recurrence together to prevent scars from deepening further.
As such, Premium Customized Acne Scar Care is a method that combines multiple steps to gradually improve the condition. Even if scars are old and deep, gradual changes can be expected through a combination tailored to the condition.
If you have any questions, inquire via chat about acne scar treatment direction
The approach varies by scar type
Scars are named and treated differently depending on their shape and depth. Below is a table summarizing frequently mentioned types.
| Scar Type | Characteristics | Primary Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Red Mark Type | Primarily color changes, minimal tissue damage | Management focused on calming and color improvement |
| Shallow Depressed Type | Smoothly sunken surface | Laser regeneration-inducing procedures |
| Deep Depressed Type | Clear dermal damage | Laser combined with Subcision, etc. |
| Sharp Pitted Type | Narrow and deeply pitted shape | Suture-Free Punch, etc. |
The above images are used without separate correction and are provided with prior consent to aid understanding of the treatment. Scar treatment involves not only using machines but also combining different procedures depending on the condition.
What to check when choosing a scar clinic
Procedures that directly manipulate tissue, such as Subcision, are not easy to perform anywhere. They require an understanding of skin structure and tissue changes, anatomical knowledge, and experience. Checking the following points before choosing a clinic can be helpful:
- Whether a dermatology specialist directly diagnoses and explains the treatment direction.
- Whether combination treatment is possible for different scar types.
- Whether there is experience with Subcision and Punch for depressed scars.
- Whether the focus is on recovery and recurrence management rather than aggressive dermabrasion.
- Whether the scar condition is sufficiently diagnosed before the procedure.
In some cases, Surgical Scar Revision may be necessary to directly restore tissue, so it is safer to determine which method is suitable for your skin through diagnosis.
Daily management to reduce recurrence after treatment
Scar treatment does not end with the procedure alone. If waste product circulation around the lesion is not smooth, acne can easily reappear, and new inflammation can lead to other scars. Therefore, it is advisable to consider both scar improvement and recurrence management during the treatment process. Paying attention to the following points during the recovery period can be helpful:
- Avoid frequently touching or irritating the treated area with your hands.
- Consistently apply sunscreen when going out.
- Avoid using products that are not suitable for your skin type.
- If new inflammation occurs, do not neglect it and seek early treatment.
By combining treatment and management in this way, you can reduce the progression of scars and stably expect changes towards smoother skin texture.
It's never too late to start
Many people have suffered from uneven skin texture or pitted marks like pockmarks after severe acne for a long time. Once pitted, marks are difficult to fill with normal regenerative power alone, but by adding appropriate equipment and treatment for the condition, you can expect changes towards smoother skin texture.
It's not too late to start managing now. Please remember that the earlier you start, the more favorable both the recovery speed and results tend to be.
If you have any questions, inquire about acne scar diagnosis and consultation
Chief Director Lee Sang-joo (Yonsei University College of Medicine · Graduate School, Doctor of Medicine, completed dermatology residency at Severance Hospital, President of the Korean Dermatological Association) Chief Director Lee Sang-joo's Profile First published 2025-05-12 / Last reviewed 2026-06-16
The condition of scars and recovery patterns vary individually, so please confirm an accurate diagnosis and treatment direction through consultation with medical staff.