How to get rid of indented acne scars?

Author: Ms. Sibyl Rolfson  |  Last update: Wednesday, December 31, 2025

Some medicated creams, such as those containing azelaic acid or hydroxyl acids, might help too. Soft tissue fillers. Injecting collagen, fat or other substances under the skin can plump the skin over indented scars. The goal is to make the scars less noticeable.

How do you get rid of dents from acne scars?

Fillers, for example, can help indented or atrophic acne scars. Laser treatment may reduce hyperpigmentation and flatten raised scars. A dermatologist can help decide on a suitable option, depending on the person's skin type and the extent and type of scarring.

Do acne divots go away?

If you have a red or brownish mark on your face that you got from a bad zit, it should eventually fade. However, it may take 12 months or longer. If you're upset about acne marks, talk to your doctor, who might have advice on what you can do.

How do you get rid of deep pitted acne scars?

Mild to Moderate Scars: Consider chemical peels, microneedling, or at-home remedies. Deep or Pitted Scars: Laser resurfacing, subcision, or dermal fillers might be more effective. Persistent Discoloration: Vitamin C serums and daily sunscreen can help improve skin tone.

Will indented scars fill in?

It's natural to wonder, “Do indented scars fill in over time?” Unfortunately, these scars won't disappear on their own. Atrophic scars rarely go away completely, but with the help of a dermatology provider, you may be able to successfully reduce their appearance.

3 DO's & DON'TS To Get Rid of Acne Scars FAST!

Is there a way to fix deep acne scars?

Dermabrasion. This procedure is usually reserved for more severe scarring. Your doctor removes the top layer of skin with a rapidly rotating brush or other device. Surface scars may be completely removed, and deeper acne scars may appear less noticeable.

Are acne dents permanent?

Expect to have the scars for most if not all of your life if you decide not to get treatment. Even with treatment, acne scars are difficult to heal. There's no 100% guarantee that the acne scars will be completely gone. But most treatments reduce the size of the acne scars and make them less visible.

Does retinol help pitted acne scars?

Retinol is also found in many acne scar treatment products because it promotes new skin cell growth and helps even out skin texture and skin tone — all of which can help reduce the appearance of newer, red acne scars and older scars.

Why did my pimple leave a dent?

Indentation scarring – more common with severe acne, occurs when the top layer of skin doesn't fully heal and regenerate — leaving an indentation in the skin.

What is the hardest acne scar to treat?

However, the answer is typically ice-pick scars when asking which acne scars are most challenging to remove. Ice-pick scars are V-shaped depressions in the skin's surface that develop due to insufficient collagen production.

Does salicylic acid help indented scars?

It is important to note that salicylic acid cannot completely remove acne scars. Deep scars, such as ice pick scars, may require more aggressive treatments, such as laser therapy or microdermabrasion. However, salicylic acid can help to fade acne scars and make them less noticeable.

Do indented scars flatten over time?

While some scars may undergo some level of fading, atrophic scars are particularly stubborn and don't resolve over time. Atrophic scar treatment helps fill in the indentation and fade the appearance of your previous wound for a smooth, balanced appearance.

Why did my pimple leave a hole?

Acne holes are scars or pick marks from pimples. They usually look like indentations or holes in the skin. Acne holes occur due to damage in the deeper layers of the skin after popping pimples.

How do you fix acne scar craters?

Treating acne scarring
  1. Dermabrasion. Dermabrasion involves removing the top layer of skin, either using lasers or a specially made wire brush. ...
  2. Laser treatment. Laser treatment can be used to treat mild to moderate acne scarring. ...
  3. Punch techniques. Punch techniques are used to treat ice pick scars and boxcar scars. ...
  4. Subcision.

Why is my scar sunken?

Depressed (atrophic): These sunken scars often result from chickenpox or acne. They look like rounded pits or small indentations in the skin. Also called ice pick scars, they develop most often on the face. Acne scars may become more noticeable as you age because the skin loses collagen and elasticity over time.

Should you massage an indented scar?

For best results, you should perform scar massage for at least 10 minutes, twice a day, for six months. You should only stop sooner than that if the scar starts showing signs of infection or you experience intolerable discomfort.

Does vitamin C help indented scars?

And vitamin C is a key player when it comes to creating collagen. Even though collagen and wounds are usually discussed in the context of repairing fresh injuries, since collagen helps make healthy tissue, it can impact older scars as well and improve their appearance.

How to get rid of depressed acne scars?

These procedures include:
  1. Dermabrasion. This treatment may be used to minimize small scars, minor skin surface irregularities, surgical scars, and acne scars. ...
  2. Chemical peels. ...
  3. Dermal filler injections. ...
  4. Laser resurfacing and light therapies. ...
  5. Punch grafts. ...
  6. Subcutaneous incision. ...
  7. Autologous fat transfer. ...
  8. Injections.

How to get rid of pitted acne scars naturally?

Are there any natural acne scar removal remedies to try at home?
  1. Apple Cider Vinegar. Diluted apple cider vinegar may help reduce the appearance of acne scars. ...
  2. Turmeric Powder. ...
  3. Coconut oil. ...
  4. Tea tree oil. ...
  5. Lemon Juice. ...
  6. Manuka Honey. ...
  7. Acupuncture.

What is the average price of a microneedling session?

The average cost of microneedling in the US is about $640 per session, according to over 300 patient experiences on RealSelf. This can vary between $300 to $700, however, depending on: Your location: Prices may be higher in major cities or upscale clinics.

Can retinol remove acne scars?

Some studies show that retinol can not only clear up acne but also improve acne scars. Some retinol products are sold over the counter, but your dermatologist could prescribe a stronger cream.

Why do my acne scars look deeper?

Sun Exposure: Prolonged sun exposure can darken scars and make them more noticeable. Protecting your skin from the sun is vital for scar management. Picking and Squeezing: Attempting to pop or pick at acne can cause further damage to the skin, potentially leading to more prominent scars.

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