Acne Scars
Acne scars and stretch marks don’t have to stay permanent on your skin. At U Med Spa, we combine clinical expertise and cutting-edge technologies to treat mild to moderate acne scars
How can we help you
Complimentary consultation with our experts
Advanced treatments and cutting-edge technologies
Personalized treatment plans and concierge service
Overview
Causes of Acne Scars
Any type of acne can cause scarring, but it usually occurs when severe acne lesions damage the skin’s deeper layers, leading to the formation of scars as the skin attempts to heal. Not treating acne promptly or effectively can increase the risk of scarring.
Certain skin types, such as oily or combination skin, may be more susceptible to acne and subsequent scarring. Individuals with darker skin tones may also be at a higher risk of developing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or keloid scars in response to acne lesions
Prevention of Acne Scars
Picking and squeezing the acne exacerbate your skin conditions making it more likely to leave scars. Avoid picking at active acne. Always sanitize your hands before touching your skin. Consistent skincare regimen is key, especially for taking care of acne and the subsequent acne scarring.
Acne scar treatment options
Mild acne scars

Microneedling is a minimally invasive procedure that uses thin needles to puncture the top layer of the skin. As the skin heals, it naturally creates collagen and elastin. It is an excellent treatment that treats uneven skin texture and fine lines. With a series of multiple treatments, Microneedling can reduce the appearance of acne scars and leave you with smoother and more even skin. Microneedling is safe for all skin types and tones.
Moderate acne scars

For more severe acne scars, we recommend Co2 laser treatments. CO2 laser is a skin resurfacing treatment that removes the epidermis (top layer of our skin) and heats the dermis to stimulate collagen production and tighten the skin. As our body begins to heal, it produces a new layer of our skin that is smoother and healthier than our older skin.

Sofwave is a break-through ultrasound technology that boosts collagen and elastin in our mid dermis to primarily tighten and lift our skin. This process, known as neocollagenesis, remodels the skin’s structure from within to smooth out depressed or atrophic acne scars as well. While Co2 laser is the gold standard for acne scar treatments, it is not a safe option for patients with darker skin tones. We recommend Sofwave to patients with darker skin tones and more moderate acne scars
Acne scar FAQ
Q
How do I know which treatment is right for me?
A
Choosing the right treatment depends on two things: the depth of your scars and your natural skin tone
For mild scarring, SkinPen Microneedling is our go-to for all skin types
For severe scarring in lighter skin, the CO2 laser is the gold standard for more severe acne scarring and provides the most intensive resurfacing
For severe scarring in darker skin, Sofwave is our preferred choice, as it provides deep collagen remodeling without the post-inflammatory pigmentation risks associated with CO2
Q
Why is CO2 laser only recommended for lighter skin tones?
A
CO2 lasers are “ablative,” meaning they target water in the surface of the skin to resurface it. In darker skin tones, the heat from a CO2 laser can accidentally trigger “Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation” (i.e., dark spots)
To keep your skin safe, we use Sofwave or SkinPen for our patients with more melanin, as these provide incredible results without the risk for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
Q
Can SkinPen Microneedling be used for deep scars if I don't want a laser?
A
Yes, but it requires patience. SkinPen is very effective for remodeling scar tissue, but because it is a “mechanical” rather than “thermal” treatment, it usually takes more sessions – often 6 or more – to see the same level of improvement that a CO2 laser or Sofwave might provide in 2-3 sessions
To boost your results from SkinPen, we offer PDGF Growth Factors which speeds healing time and supercharges your results
Q
What is the difference in downtime between CO2 and Sofwave for acne scars?
A
Co2 laser typically requires 7–10 days of “clinical downtime.” You will experience peeling, redness, and swelling as the skin resurfaces. You will need to avoid being outside for at least 3 days post treatment to protect your skin, and your skin will recover over 7-10 days
Sofwave has zero downtime. Your skin might be slightly pink for an hour, but you can return to your normal routine immediately. This makes Sofwave an excellent choice for busy patients or those who cannot take time off to heal
U Med approach
At U Med Spa, we address acne scarring by combining clinical expertise with the industry’s most advanced technologies. We understand that no two scars are the same, which is why we offer a tiered strategy: SkinPen® microneedling for smoothing mild texture and CO2 laser resurfacing or Sofwave for transforming more severe acne scars.
Because successful scar revision requires a tailored roadmap, we provide complimentary consultations to design a customized treatment plan. Our expert team evaluates the depth and nature of your scarring to ensure we utilize the most effective modality for your goals.