Acne Scarring Treatment

Close-up of skin texture before acne scar treatment

Smoother texture after breakouts

Acne can leave reminders long after breakouts clear, from shallow pits and rolling scars to uneven texture and dark marks. These changes can be frustrating, especially when makeup doesn’t quite cover them.

Professional treatments can make a real difference by resurfacing the skin and stimulating new collagen to fill in and smooth scarring over time.

At KDR, we assess your scar types and skin tone carefully before recommending a plan.

Schedule a consultation

What is acne scarring?

Acne scars form when deep inflammation damages the skin and the body’s repair process leaves uneven tissue behind. Most scars are depressed, such as ice pick, boxcar, and rolling scars, while some are raised. Discoloration that remains after a breakout heals is often called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation; it’s not a true scar, but it can be just as bothersome and often improves with treatment.

What causes acne scarring?

Several factors influence whether acne leaves scars behind:

  • Deep, inflamed breakouts
  • Picking or squeezing blemishes
  • Delayed acne treatment
  • Genetics
  • Slower healing with age

Treating active acne early is the best way to limit new scarring.

Signs of acne scarring

Scarring can look different from person to person.

Common signs include:

  • Small, deep pits
  • Wide depressions with sharp edges
  • Wavy, uneven texture
  • Raised scars
  • Lingering dark or red marks

Most people have a mix of scar types, which is why combination treatment often works best.

Available treatment options

We combine treatments to address both texture and tone.

Laser treatments

Fractional and resurfacing lasers stimulate collagen and smooth uneven texture.

Book laser treatments

Microneedling

Controlled micro-injuries trigger collagen production to gradually lift depressed scars.

Book microneedling

Chemical peels

Peels improve surface texture and fade lingering discoloration.

Book chemical peels

Facial treatments

Clarifying facials help keep breakouts under control and support healthy skin while scars are treated.

Book facials

A series of treatments over several months usually gives the most noticeable improvement.

What to expect

Consultation

  • We examine your scars and skin type
  • We discuss your goals and history
  • We check for active acne that needs treatment first
  • Your provider recommends a series
  • We review downtime and timing
  • You receive a written plan

Treatment

  • Your skin is cleansed and numbed as needed
  • Treatment is performed with settings tailored to your skin
  • Most sessions take under an hour
  • Sessions are spaced several weeks apart

Afterward

  • Redness for a day or two is common
  • Skin may feel rough as it renews
  • Improvement builds over several sessions
  • Results continue for months as collagen forms
  • Daily sunscreen protects your results
Woman relaxing with a towel wrapped around her hair before an aesthetic treatment
Woman with glowing skin after an aesthetic treatment

Who is a good candidate?

Adults with stable acne and lingering scars are often good candidates.

  • You have pitted, rolling, or boxcar scars that affect your skin’s texture.
  • You notice dark or red marks that remain long after breakouts heal.
  • Your active acne is under control, or you’re ready to treat it first.
  • You’re willing to commit to a series of treatments for gradual improvement.

Before and after care

Preparing well and caring for your skin afterward helps you heal smoothly and get the most from treatment.

Before treatment

  • Avoid sun exposure and tanning for two weeks.
  • Pause retinoids and exfoliating products for several days, or as directed.
  • Tell us about medications, recent treatments, or a history of cold sores.

After treatment

  • Wear broad-spectrum sunscreen every day.
  • Use gentle, fragrance-free skincare while your skin recovers.
  • Let any peeling or flaking shed on its own.
  • Avoid intense heat and heavy sweating for a day or two.

Your provider will give you specific instructions for your treatment plan.

Woman with healthy, radiant skin following professional skincare
Bright waiting area inside a KDR Aesthetics + Wellness office

Why choose KDR Aesthetics + Wellness?

Treating skin concerns well means choosing the right tools and knowing how your skin will respond. That’s where experience matters.

  • Experienced providers: Our team specializes in medical aesthetics and treats a wide range of skin types.
  • Combination plans: We pair treatments thoughtfully for stronger, longer-lasting results.
  • Medical-grade care: We use proven technologies and professional skincare.
  • Two convenient offices: Visit us in Newton at 415 Lexington Street or in downtown Boston at 122 Milk Street.

Start with a consultation, and we’ll build a plan around your skin and your schedule.

Frequently asked questions

Can acne scars be removed completely?

Most scars can be improved significantly, though complete removal isn’t always possible. A series of treatments can make texture much smoother.

How many treatments will I need?

Many patients need three to six sessions, depending on scar depth and type.

Can I treat scars while I still have acne?

We usually recommend getting active acne under control first, since new breakouts can cause new scarring.

Is treatment safe for darker skin?

Yes, with the right technology and settings. We choose treatments carefully to reduce the risk of pigment changes.

Book an appointment

617-834-1812Book an appointment

Real relationships, lasting results, reimagined self-care

Let’s personalize your treatment plan

Tell us a little about your goals, and our team will help you find the right next step.

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