Acne Marks vs Acne Scars: Differences, Treatments & Prevention

What Are Acne Marks?

Types of Acne Marks

Acne marks are temporary discolourations left on the skin after acne heals. Unlike scars, they do not alter the skin’s texture or structure and often fade on their own with time. There are two main types of acne marks: post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) and post-inflammatory erythema (PIE).

Acne marks can vary in appearance, usually based on skin type and the healing process. Below are two common types:

Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)

This occurs when inflammation causes the skin to produce extra melanin, leading to dark spots. PIH typically appears as brown or black marks and is more common in darker skin tones.

Post-Inflammatory Erythema (PIE)

PIE manifests as red or pink marks due to damage to small blood vessels near the skin’s surface. It is more common in lighter skin tones and may take longer to fade than PIH.

What Are Acne Scars?

Types of Acne Scars

Acne scars form when more profound layers of the skin are damaged during the healing process of severe or cystic acne. Unlike marks, these scars are often permanent and may require dermatological intervention to improve.

Acne scars vary in appearance and severity, depending on the type of skin damage. Here’s a look at the main types:

Atrophic Scars

These are indentations in the skin caused by a loss of tissue. They include:

Ice pick scars: Narrow, deep holes that resemble puncture marks.
Boxcar scars: Wider, angular depressions with defined edges.
Rolling scars: Wavy depressions caused by fibrous tissue that pulls down on the skin.

Hypertrophic and Keloid Scars

These scars appear raised and firm. Keloid scars extend beyond the original acne lesion, while hypertrophic scars remain within its boundaries. They are caused by excess tissue formation.

Acne Marks vs Acne Scars: Key Differences

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Factor	Acne Marks	Acne Scars
Duration	Temporary, fades with time	Permanent, may need intervention
Colour	Red, pink, brown, or black	Indentations or raised textures
Skin Texture Changes	No texture change	Can be indented or raised
Treatment	Topical treatments, sunscreen	Laser therapy, micro-needling, fillers

Treatments Options for Acne Scars and Acne Marks

Due to the structural differences in the skin, treatments for acne marks and scars vary significantly. Acne marks often respond well to topical treatments, while scars require more intensive procedures.

Treatments for Acne Scars

Laser treatments, such as fractional lasers, target the scarred layers of skin to stimulate collagen production and smooth out uneven scars. At AURA, we offer a variety of treatments specifically designed to address different skin concerns, including acne scars, pigmentation, and skin texture.

Here’s a quick overview:

Alexandrite Picosecond Laser: Helps improve acne scars by targeting pigmentation and boosting collagen, improving skin tone and texture.
Alexandrite Pico Pro Laser: Similar to the PicoSure Laser, this treatment focuses on skin rejuvenation while effectively reducing the appearance of acne scars.
Dual-Wavelength Picosecond Laser: An effective solution for breaking down scar tissue and promoting skin regeneration to smooth acne scars and refresh your complexion.
Fractional CO2 Laser: Works on deeper layers of the skin to resurface scarred areas, stimulate collagen production, and reduce the appearance of indented scars.
4D Laser Facelift: May improve the appearance of mild acne scars through skin tightening and resurfacing.

Peels containing glycolic acid or trichloroacetic acid (TCA) promote skin resurfacing and may help with mild to moderate acne scars.

AURA Emerald Peel: The AURA Emerald Peel is a two-step facial treatment that helps improve skin texture and tone with minimal downtime. The AURA Emerald Peel suits all skin types and can address multiple concerns.

This treatment is designed to:

Improve skin complexion and texture
Reduce the visibility of acne scars and lighten acne marks
Support collagen production for improved skin elasticity
Exfoliate the skin and enhance hydration

Microneedling or conventional microneedling involves the use of tiny needles that create micro-injuries in the skin. This process stimulates collagen production to reduce the visibility of atrophic scars.

RF microneedling is a skin treatment that combines traditional microneedling with radiofrequency (RF) energy. The procedure uses fine needles to create tiny micro-injuries in the skin while delivering RF energy to the deeper layers. This process also helps stimulate collagen and elastin production to improve skin texture and elasticity.

RF Microneedling: The RF Microneedling is an FDA-approved treatment that enhances traditional microneedling by combining it with radiofrequency (RF) energy. Featuring both monopolar and bipolar radiofrequencies at 1MHz and 2MHz frequencies, this device delivers skin rejuvenation. This dual-action technology makes RF Microneedling an option for addressing a variety of skin concerns.

This treatment is designed to:

Monopolar RF: Reaches deeper skin layers for tightening and rejuvenation, delivering facelift-like effects.
Bipolar RF: Targets superficial layers to address acne scars, loose skin and open pores.

Fillers are used to add volume to indented scars, helping to create a more even skin surface. This treatment can be especially effective for addressing boxcars and rolling scars. At AURA, we offer the following options:

Dermal Fillers: Temporarily reduce the appearance of atrophic (sunken) acne scars by filling in the depressions for a smoother finish.
2-in-1 Skin Booster & Collagen Biostimulator: Formulated with polynucleotides, this treatment stimulates collagen synthesis, helping to repair and rejuvenate acne-scarred skin.

Skin boosters are injectable treatments designed to deeply hydrate the skin, improve elasticity, and refine texture. They work beneath the surface to revitalise the skin, giving it a natural glow while minimising the visibility of fine lines and scars.

Skin Repair Booster is a unique injectable treatment that focuses on regenerating and repairing the skin at a cellular level. Using polynucleotides (PDRN), it stimulates collagen production and enhances skin healing, making it an excellent option for reducing acne scars and improving overall skin quality.

Treatments for Acne Marks

Topical Treatments

Ingredients like Vitamin C, niacinamide, and licorice root help reduce hyperpigmentation and lighten marks over time.

Chemical Exfoliants

AHAs (e.g., glycolic acid) and BHAs (e.g., salicylic acid) exfoliate the outer layers of the skin, encouraging cell turnover and helping fade acne marks.

How To Prevent Acne Scars and Acne Marks

Taking preventive steps during acne treatment can reduce the likelihood of both marks and scars.

1. Proper Acne Care

Managing active acne without picking or squeezing can prevent skin inflammation, reducing the risk of marks and scarring.

2. Effective Use of Treatments

Use appropriate treatments for active acne based on the severity to prevent deep lesions that may lead to scarring.

3. Regular Sun Protection

Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen daily to prevent the darkening of marks and new pigmentation. Use SPF 30 or higher for adequate skin protection and to enhance treatment results.

Can acne marks turn into scars?

Generally, acne marks don’t turn into scars, as they are discolourations rather than structural skin damage. However, repeated irritation can increase the likelihood of permanent scarring.

How long do acne marks last?

The duration varies, with many marks fading within a few months, depending on the skin type, severity, and sun protection. PIE can take longer to fade than PIH.

Conclusion

Knowing the difference between acne marks and scars is essential for choosing effective treatments. While acne marks are usually temporary pigmentation changes, acne scars involve permanent skin texture changes. With a range of treatments available for each, from topical agents to laser therapy, you can address these issues based on your unique skin needs. Preventive care, including gentle acne management and consistent sunscreen use, is vital in maintaining clear, healthy skin.

Why Choose Us?

At AURA, your treatment is as unique as you are—personalised, evidence-based, and designed for lasting results with uncompromised safety and quality.

20 Years Of Experience
In Medical Aesthetics

Performed By
MOH-Accredited Doctors

Science-Led Approach

Evidenced-Based Treatments

FDA-Cleared Technology

Personalised Care and Treatments

Safe and Efficient

The content on this website is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. We recommend scheduling a consultation to address your concerns and receive personalised treatment recommendations. Treatment plans, results, and pricing may vary for each person and can only be accurately assessed by a doctor after a diagnosis.

Acne Marks vs Acne Scars
Differences, Treatments & Prevention