3 Top Treatments for Sunken Acne Scars

Even after your acne clears, the scars left behind can constantly remind you of the struggle. Pitted sunken acne scars can be particularly challenging and often have a profound impact on your self-image and confidence.

Ruben Moreno, MD, and the Florida Dermatology Associates team specialize in treating stubborn acne scars. We offer a variety of cosmetic procedures to help you achieve smoother, more evenly toned skin.

Are you tired of letting acne scars define your appearance? Explore how these three top treatments can address sunken acne scars and transform your skin.

1. Chemical peels

Chemical peels offer a noninvasive, effective way to reduce the appearance of acne scars. During a chemical peel, our specialists apply a chemical solution to your skin, often containing ingredients such as salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or lactic acid. This causes the outermost layers to peel away, helping to:

Remove damaged skin

Chemical peels exfoliate the damaged top layers of skin that contribute to the appearance of pitted scars. The new, healthy skin underneath reveals a smoother, more even complexion.

Stimulate collagen production

Chemical peels stimulate the body’s production of collagen, a protein that gives your skin its structure and elasticity. As collagen production ramps up, your skin becomes thicker and firmer, helping to fill in sunken areas. 

Treat hyperpigmentation

Chemical peels can also treat hyperpigmentation or dark spots, making acne scars even more visible. By exfoliating the top layers of skin and stimulating cell turnover, chemical peels can reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation and contribute to a refreshed revitalized appearance.

2. Laser resurfacing

Laser resurfacing is an innovative cosmetic treatment that uses precise beams of light to exfoliate and rejuvenate the skin. This treatment, often referred to as a laser peel, helps reduce the appearance of acne scars by:

Stimulating cell turnover

Like a chemical peel, laser resurfacing stimulates cell turnover to promote skin renewal and reduce visible scarring. This treatment can be especially beneficial for individuals with deep scars or sensitive skin.

Improving skin texture

Laser resurfacing can also improve your skin’s texture by reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots. After your treatment, you can enjoy a more youthful and radiant appearance for up to five years with proper skin care.

3. Dermal fillers

It may surprise you that dermal fillers, often used to treat wrinkles, can also significantly improve the appearance of acne scars. This non-surgical treatment involves the injection of filler material into the skin to add volume and lift sunken areas.

Our specialists select the most appropriate type of filler for your individual needs, considering your skin type and the severity of your scarring. Options may include hyaluronic acid, poly-L-lactic acid, or collagen fillers.

Dermal fillers can be a highly effective method of improving the appearance of sunken acne scars. While the effects aren’t permanent, they can last for months, and you can maintain your results with subsequent treatments.

If you’re one of over seven million Americans with acne scars, Dr. Moreno and the team at Florida Dermatology Associates have a solution for you. To schedule a consultation, call us or book an appointment online today.