Understanding Acne Scars

After acne heals, skin can be left uneven or indented when deeper layers fail to regenerate smoothly. Common scar types include:

• Ice pick scars — narrow and deep pits
• Boxcar scars — wider, shallow depressions
• Rolling scars — wavy texture
• Post-inflammatory pigmentation (PIH) — discolored spots left after acne heals

Different scar types require different treatment approaches.

Common Acne Scar Treatment Methods in Seoul

 1. Laser Resurfacing

Laser treatments gently remove or remodel damaged skin layers to stimulate collagen and smooth texture.

• Can be fractional lasers, CO₂, or other energy-based devices.
• Helps with deeper scars and uneven skin surface.
• Some downtime (a few days of redness or peeling) is typical.

 2. RF Microneedling

This combines tiny needles with radiofrequency energy to boost collagen from within the skin.

• Good for improving texture and firmness.
• Often has shorter recovery than more aggressive lasers.

 3. Subcision + Volume Restoration

For deeper, tethered scars, breaking up fibrous bands under the scar can help.

• Sometimes combined with fillers to lift depressed scars and smooth the surface.
• Works well for rolling or large boxcar scars.

 4. Regenerative Therapies

These include PRP (platelet-rich plasma), exosomes, or skin boosters delivered after microneedling/laser to enhance healing and collagen production.

• May help improve tone, hydration, and healing quality.

 5. Chemical Peels

Mild to medium-strength chemical peels help exfoliate and refresh the skin surface.

• More effective for surface texture issues and pigmentation than deep scars alone.
• Often used in combination with other methods.

Typical Treatment Process

1. Consultation & Scar Evaluation
   ■ Specialist identifies your scar types and severity.
2. Personalized Plan
   ■ Single or combination therapies recommended.
3. Treatment Sessions
   ■ Several sessions are often needed (e.g., 3–6 or more) to see meaningful change.
4. Aftercare & Recovery
   ■ Redness and mild swelling are normal initially; recovery varies by method.

General Price Range (Seoul Context)

Prices vary by method, number of sessions, device used, and skin area, but typical ranges seen locally include:

• Laser resurfacing: mid-range to higher per session
• RF microneedling: moderate to higher
• Subcision + filler: moderate to higher
• Regenerative add-ons: additional cost on top of base session

Because acne scars are a textural issue requiring repeated treatments, total costs depend on how many sessions your specialist determines you need.

Expected Results & Frequency

• Many people notice gradual improvement after a few sessions.
• Multiple treatments spaced over weeks or months are common.
• Collagen remodeling continues even after visible healing, so results continue improving for weeks post-treatment.

Aftercare Basics

To support healing and maximize results:

• Avoid strong exfoliants or retinoids immediately after treatment.
• Keep skin hydrated and protected from sun exposure.
• Follow post-procedure guidelines your provider gives (e.g., gentle cleansing, avoiding heat exposure initially).
• Consistency matters: acne scar improvement is incremental, not instant.

Who It’s Best For

• People with indentations or texture irregularities from previous acne
• Those with uneven skin tone or post-inflammatory pigmentation
• Anyone seeking long-term structural improvement, not just surface smoothing