While breakouts may come and go, acne scars often linger long after active acne has resolved. These lasting marks can vary significantly in appearance (from shallow dents to deep pits or raised patches) and are often more complex than they seem at first glance.

Identifying the types of acne scars present on your skin is an important first step in choosing the right treatment path. In this blog, we take a closer look at how to recognise different scar types and outline the treatment options typically used to manage each one.

Why Identifying Acne Scars Matters

Not all acne scars respond in the same way to treatment. Each type of scar forms differently beneath the skin, which means some are best treated by stimulating collagen, while others may benefit from resurfacing or targeted interventions. Understanding the type or combination of scars you have allows for a more tailored approach and can help manage expectations when it comes to skin texture and recovery timelines.

Learn how to recognise different types of acne scars to better understand what your skin needs.

Types of Acne Scars and How to Recognise Them

Most acne scars fall into one of two main categories: atrophic (depressed) or hypertrophic (raised). Here’s how to tell the difference between them — and how they typically appear on the skin.

Ice Pick Scars

• Deep, narrow scars that resemble small puncture holes
• Often found on the cheeks or nose
• Can be difficult to treat due to their depth
• Commonly result from deep or cystic acne

Boxcar Scars

• Broad depressions with sharply defined edges
• May be shallow or deep
• Often located on the cheeks, temples or jawline
• Caused by inflammatory acne that damages collagen

Rolling Scars

• Shallow, wide depressions with sloping edges
• Create an uneven, ‘wavy’ appearance on the skin
• Caused by fibrous bands beneath the skin pulling it downward

Atrophic Scars (General Term)

• Encompasses all sunken or indented scars
• Typically caused by collagen loss following inflammation
• Includes ice pick, boxcar and rolling scars as subtypes

Hypertrophic & Keloid Scars

• Raised, firm scars caused by excess collagen during healing
• Hypertrophic scars stay within the acne site; keloids may grow beyond it
• More common on the chest, shoulders and jawline

Do You Have More Than One Scar Type?

It’s common for individuals to have a mix of scar types across different areas of the face or body. For example, boxcar scars may appear on the cheeks, while ice pick scars affect the nose and rolling scars are visible on the jawline. A professional skin assessment can help map out which scars are present and determine which treatments may work best in combination.

Different types of acne scars respond to different treatments — professional guidance helps match scar type to solution.

Matching Scar Types to Treatment Options

The most effective treatment approach for acne scars often depends on the type of scarring present. Since each scar behaves differently, a personalised plan is essential. Here’s a general guide to how different scar types may be managed:

Ice Pick Scars

These deep, narrow scars may respond to resurfacing techniques designed to target the deeper layers of skin. Fractional laser treatments, such as CO2-based resurfacing, are often considered in these cases.

Boxcar Scars

Wider, more defined depressions like boxcar scars may be supported by fractional laser resurfacing or skin needling techniques. These aim to stimulate new skin formation and help soften sharp edges.

Rolling Scars

Characterised by a wave-like appearance, rolling scars often benefit from treatments that support collagen remodelling. Radiofrequency microneedling and vampire facial treatments are commonly used for these purposes.

Atrophic Scars (General Indentations)

For broader atrophic scars, a layered approach may be used. Skin rejuvenation treatments such as chemical peels, microneedling, or collagen-stimulating therapies can help improve overall skin texture over time.

Hypertrophic Scars

Raised scars, while less common on the face, may be managed using targeted laser resurfacing to smooth the skin and reduce the appearance of excess tissue.

Each of these treatments plays a role in addressing specific scar patterns. A thorough skin consultation can help determine which combination of approaches is most suitable based on scar type, skin condition and treatment goals.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the types of acne scars on your skin is an essential part of building an effective treatment plan. While some scars are easier to manage than others, recognising their differences is the key to making informed decisions about your skincare options.

If you’re ready to take the next step, a professional consultation can help assess your skin and determine a treatment approach tailored to your needs. With the right guidance, improving skin texture and supporting long-term skin health becomes a more achievable goal.

How to book a consultation

Please contact our friendly staff by phone, via our online form, or by email to organise a consultation at one of our convenient locations.

FAQs

If you have any more questions about the different types of acne scars and how to treat them, please don’t hesitate to contact us. In the meantime, you can find our FAQs below, which may provide the additional information you’re looking for.

What are the different types of acne scars?

The different types of acne scars include atrophic scars (ice pick, boxcar and rolling) and raised scars, such as hypertrophic or keloid scars. Identifying what the different types of acne scars look like can help guide appropriate treatment.

How do I identify different acne scars?

Look at the shape, depth and texture of the scar — narrow and deep scars may indicate ice pick types, while wide and shallow ones could be rolling or boxcar. If you’re unsure how to identify different acne scars, a professional skin consultation can help.

What is the best treatment for acne scarring on the face?

The best treatment depends on the scar type, skin condition and goals. Many people ask about the best treatment for acne scarring on the face, but a personalised approach often yields the most effective results.

How do I get rid of deep acne scars?

Deeper scars (like ice pick or boxcar scars) may be supported by fractional laser, microneedling, or skin resurfacing treatments. If you’re looking into how to get rid of deep acne scars, it’s best to begin with a professional assessment.

Do acne scars go away on their own?

While some shallow marks or pigmentation may fade over time, true acne scars usually require targeted treatment. This is especially true if you’re dealing with permanent textural changes caused by acne scars.