Even when acne is treated successfully, it can leave marks behind. These marks are both an aesthetic and a psychological burden. Fortunately, modern medical aesthetics offers a broad range of options for both superficial redness/pigmentation and deeper scar tissue. Choosing the right treatment starts with understanding the type of acne mark you are dealing with.
Types of Acne Scars
Marks left after acne develop through different mechanisms and call for different treatments:
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH): Red or brown discolouration remaining after the acne has healed. This is not a true scar but a temporary colour change; even so, it can persist for months or even years.
- Atrophic scars (depressed marks): Divided into three subtypes — "icepick" (deep and narrow), "boxcar" (wide-based with vertical walls) and "rolling" (wavy, gently sloping).
- Hypertrophic scars and keloids: Raised, over-grown scar tissue; less common but harder to treat.
Chemical Peels: An Effective Option for Superficial Marks
Chemical peels using salicylic acid, glycolic acid or TCA are particularly effective for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and shallow atrophic scars. They encourage the surface layer of cells to shed so the healthier tissue underneath can come through. A series of sessions markedly strengthens the result.
- Superficial peel: For PIH and very shallow marks; 4–6 sessions, once a week.
- Medium-depth peel: Stronger effect for moderate atrophic scars; longer recovery.
- Note: Darker skin tones require careful formula selection; the risk of hyperactive melanocytes must be assessed.
Salmon DNA (PDRN): Repair and Renewal
PDRN is chosen more and more often in the treatment of acne scars. Because it accelerates tissue repair, it helps soften scar tissue while also supporting the healthy tissue around it. Its anti-inflammatory action means it can also be used to calm the skin during an active phase of acne.
"Patience and a combination approach are the keys to treating acne scars. No single method produces miracles in one session; the right protocol applied consistently, however, delivers dramatic improvement."
Mesotherapy: Improving Tissue Quality
Mesotherapy formulations containing vitamin C, glutathione, amino acids and hyaluronic acid improve tissue quality around the scar area. Their brightening effect on PIH is especially valuable. Components that help soften the scar itself can also be added to the mix.
Combination Protocol
In practice, acne scar treatment is almost always run as a strategic combination of several methods:
- PIH dominant: Chemical peel + vitamin C mesotherapy + sun protection.
- Atrophic scar dominant: Chemical peel + salmon DNA (polynucleotides) + mesotherapy.
- Mixed picture: Staged protocol — inflammation control first, renewal treatments afterwards.
- Active acne present: Treat the active acne first, then move on to scar treatment.
Points to Consider Before Treatment
- If acne is active, dermatological treatment should be completed first.
- If you are using isotretinoin, wait at least six months after stopping the medication before starting surface treatments such as peels.
- Broad-spectrum sunscreen is essential throughout the treatment course.
- Expectations should be realistic: deep scars may not disappear completely, though a clear improvement is achievable. Results vary from person to person. Any treatment plan is subject to physician assessment.
At our Mersin clinic, acne scar treatment is delivered through protocols tailored to your skin type and the type of scar you have. The first step is a detailed skin assessment, on the basis of which the most suitable treatment plan is drawn up for you.