Post-Acne Marks vs. Scars – What’s the Right Treatment?
Acne is frustrating enough, but what often lingers after breakouts are the stubborn marks and scars left behind. These reminders of past acne can affect your confidence just as much as active pimples. But did you know that post-acne marks and scars are two different concerns—and require different treatments?
In this blog, we’ll break down the differences between acne marks and acne scars, and how the top skin experts like Dr. Garima at Skin Savvy, Varanasi approach treatment for each.
What Are Post-Acne Marks?
Post-acne marks are flat discolorations that appear after a pimple has healed. They are usually:
Red or brown in color
Flat and smooth to the touch
Also known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) or post-inflammatory erythema (PIE)
These marks occur when inflammation from acne causes excess melanin (pigment) to be deposited in the skin or leaves behind redness due to broken capillaries.
Best Treatments for Acne Marks:
Topical Creams with ingredients like niacinamide, vitamin C, retinoids, or kojic acid
Chemical Peels to exfoliate pigmented skin cells
Laser Treatments (like Q-switched laser) for stubborn pigmentation
Microneedling + Serums to boost skin healing
Sun Protection: Daily use of broad-spectrum sunscreen is essential to prevent marks from worsening
What Are Acne Scars?
Acne scars are textural changes in the skin that develop when the deeper layers of the skin are damaged. These are not just color changes—they involve the skin’s structure and include:
Ice pick scars: deep and narrow
Rolling scars: wave-like indentations
Boxcar scars: broad with sharp edges
Hypertrophic or keloid scars: raised and thickened
These scars are harder to treat than marks and usually need in-office dermatological procedures.
Best Treatments for Acne Scars:
Microneedling with PRP (Vampire Facial) – stimulates collagen regeneration
Fractional CO2 Laser or Erbium Laser Resurfacing – smoothens uneven skin
Subcision – breaks scar tissue under the skin
TCA CROSS – for deep ice pick scars
Dermal Fillers – lift depressed scars temporarily
The ideal treatment depends on your scar type, depth, and skin sensitivity—and often requires a combination approach.
How to Know What You Have
Confused whether you have marks or scars? Here’s a quick guide:
| Feature | Post-Acne Marks | Acne Scars |
|---|---|---|
| Color | Red, brown, or purple | Same color as your skin |
| Texture | Smooth | Uneven or indented |
| Duration | Can fade in 3–6 months | Persistent for years if untreated |
| Treatment | Topicals, peels, laser for PIH | In-office treatments for structural changes |
If you’re unsure, a quick consultation with a dermatologist like Dr. Garima at Skin Savvy, Varanasi can help diagnose your condition correctly and create a custom plan.
Takeaway: One Size Doesn’t Fit All
Treating acne after-effects is not just about using one miracle cream. Whether you have post-acne pigmentation or textural scarring, identifying the right type and choosing expert-led treatment is key.
At Skin Savvy, Varanasi, Dr. Garima and her team provide specialized solutions tailored to your skin type and concerns—so you can get back to clearer, smoother skin with confidence.
For more information please connect with us:
Hospital’s Name: Skin Savvy by Dr Garima Varanasi
Address: Malviya kunj, SHARABH HOSPITAL, B31/13 D-P, Saket Nagar Colony, Lanka, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221005
Contact Number: +91-8808872742
Email Id: contact@skinsavvybydrgarima.com
Working Days & Hours: Mon – Sat(11am–7 pm) , Sunday(12pm–4 pm)