Depressed acne scarring is typically addressed with microneedling radiofrequency or precision CO2 laser resurfacing, chosen according to scar type and depth.
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Laser Rejuvenation
Treatment Series
Treatment Series
Acne Scar Treatment in Seoul.
A consultation-led approach to depressed acne scarring — the icepick, boxcar and rolling textural changes left behind once active breakouts have healed. Because these scar types respond differently to treatment, assessment starts by classifying the scar pattern before a microneedling RF or precision CO2 laser approach, matched to the confirmed depth, is proposed.
This page focuses specifically on depressed scarring left behind by past acne. LOUAVE also publishes dedicated pages for related concerns — including Pore Treatment, Scar & Stretch Mark Revision, Fractional Laser Resurfacing and PicoPlus Pigmentation Treatment — for readers comparing scar patterns or underlying technologies.
Scar Pattern Assessment
Acne scar revision is usually delivered as a staged course, with the number of sessions depending on scar depth and the technology selected.
Recovery varies by technology — microneedling RF typically settles within days, while precision CO2 laser involves several days of visible peeling.
Icepick, boxcar and rolling scars respond differently to treatment, so the doctor classifies the pattern before selecting a technology and depth.
Understanding Acne Scarring
Why the scar type matters more than how deep it looks today.
Acne scars form when inflamed breakouts damage collagen in the dermis during healing. Most are atrophic — a depression rather than a raised mark — and fall into three recognised patterns: narrow, deep icepick scars; broader, sharply-edged boxcar scars; and shallow, wave-like rolling scars caused by fibrous bands tethering skin to tissue beneath.
These are distinct from post-inflammatory redness or dark marks left by recent breakouts, which are pigment changes rather than true textural scarring and are usually addressed differently, including through options such as PicoPlus pigmentation treatment.
Because icepick, boxcar and rolling scars respond best to different depths and technologies, assessment at consultation — reviewing scar type, depth and skin tone — comes before any treatment plan is proposed.
Microneedling RF and precision CO2 laser resurfacing can meaningfully soften scar depth and improve texture over a staged course. Neither restores skin to a pre-acne state — realistic, gradual improvement in texture is the goal rather than complete removal.
Classify the scar, then match the depth.
Treatment proceeds only once the scar pattern — icepick, boxcar, or rolling — and its depth are confirmed, with the technology and settings chosen to suit that specific pattern and your skin tone.
Temple Zone
Cheek Zone
Jawline Zone
How Acne Scar Treatment Works
Type 01
Type 02
Type 03
Type 04
Scar types, planned around a staged treatment course.
Acne scarring most often concentrates on the cheeks and jawline, where hormonal breakouts tend to cluster, though temple and forehead involvement is also common. During consultation, the doctor classifies scar type and depth across each affected zone, then proposes a course scaled to what's actually present.
Icepick Scars
Narrow, deep, V-shaped scars that extend into the dermis — typically the most difficult pattern to treat and often needing greater resurfacing depth.
Boxcar Scars
Broader depressions with sharply defined, angular edges, commonly across the cheeks — often responding well to a combination approach.
Rolling Scars
Shallow, wave-like undulations caused by fibrous bands tethering skin to tissue beneath — often the pattern best suited to microneedling RF.
Mixed-Pattern Coverage & Sequencing
Most patients present with more than one scar type together; sessions are planned to address the mix, spaced four to six weeks apart between passes.
Concerns Acne Scar Treatment May Address
Scarring concerns, reviewed individually at consultation.
The concerns below are specific to depressed textural scarring left behind by past acne. Enlarged pores and post-inflammatory pigmentation have different underlying causes and are addressed differently, including through LOUAVE's dedicated pore treatment and pigmentation treatment pages.
Narrow, Deep Icepick Scarring
Small, deep, pinpoint depressions that extend into the dermis, most often across the cheeks — typically the pattern requiring the greatest treatment depth.
Icepick PatternBroad, Sharp-Edged Boxcar Scarring
Wider depressions with defined, angular borders that sit at a consistent depth, commonly across the cheeks and temples.
Boxcar PatternShallow, Wave-Like Rolling Scarring
Broad, undulating depressions caused by fibrous bands tethering the skin to tissue beneath, giving the surface an uneven, rolling appearance.
Rolling PatternMixed Scar Patterns From Long-Standing Acne
Many patients present with icepick, boxcar and rolling scarring together, often built up over years of recurring breakouts.
Mixed PatternOverall Textural Unevenness
Where scarring has left the skin looking generally uneven rather than as clearly defined depressions, treatment is planned around overall resurfacing.
Combined Texture PatternScarring With Residual Post-Acne Marks
Where textural scarring is accompanied by lingering red or dark post-acne marks, that pigment component is reassessed and addressed separately.
Combined Texture Pattern Treatment Philosophy
Classify the scar, not just treat the surface.
Because icepick, boxcar and rolling scars respond to different depths and technologies, the approach begins with an honest classification of what is actually present before any technology is chosen.
Type-Matched Technology Selection
Scar type, depth and skin tone are reviewed together before a technology — microneedling RF, precision CO2 laser, or a combination — is proposed, so treatment matches the actual pattern rather than a default setting.
Icepick, boxcar and rolling reviewed separately
No default or one-size setting
Skin tone reviewed to manage pigment risk
Individualised, not formulaic
Preferred focus: type-confirmed, realistic planning
Realistic, Staged Improvement
Sessions build textural improvement gradually over a course rather than promising a single dramatic result, reflecting how established scar tissue actually responds to treatment.
Sessions spaced four to six weeks
Reviewed before further sessions
Healing and pigment checked between passes
Additional sessions expected for deeper patterns
Assessment focus: deliberate, staged refinement
Honest About What Acne Scar Treatment Can't Do
Microneedling RF and precision CO2 laser can meaningfully soften scar depth and improve texture. Neither restores skin to a pre-acne state, and where active breakouts or pigment marks are still present, those are addressed first rather than treated as the same issue.
Realistic expectations set upfront
Cannot fully restore pre-acne texture
Active acne addressed before scar treatment
Individual results still vary
Safety focus: honest expectation-setting
LOUAVE Treatment Process
A structured plan built around a confirmed scar type.
The process below is specific to acne scar treatment, from initial scar classification through to a technology-matched course and ongoing review.
Consultation & Scar Classification
The doctor examines each scar, classifying icepick, boxcar and rolling patterns and grading overall depth and skin tone.
Type-confirming classificationTechnology & Depth Selection
Microneedling RF depth, precision CO2 laser settings, or a combination approach and an approximate number of sessions are proposed based on the classified pattern.
Type-matched planningTreatment Sessions
Passes are delivered to the confirmed areas using the selected technology, typically spaced four to six weeks apart.
Four-to-six-week spacingProgress Review & Adjustment
Healing, pigment and textural response are reviewed after each session, with any further sessions planned based on how the scarring responds.
Ongoing progress review Results & Development
Day 0
Days 1–7
Weeks 4–6
Ongoing
Scar texture softens gradually, reviewed session by session.
The treated area is commonly red or, with precision CO2 laser, visibly peeling in the days after each session, with smoother texture emerging gradually as collagen remodels over the following weeks. Shallower rolling and boxcar scars often show a steady response over a staged course, while deeper icepick scarring may need additional passes.
Treatment session
The confirmed areas are treated with the selected microneedling RF or precision CO2 laser technology; redness or visible peeling is common immediately afterward.
Peeling settles, early texture change begins
Redness and any peeling typically settle within a week, with early softening of scar edges becoming visible as the area heals and collagen begins remodelling.
Review & possible next pass
Response is reviewed at the next visit; scars that only partly softened can be retreated at this stage if needed.
Collagen remodelling continues
Collagen remodelling can continue gradually for months after a course is complete, with daily sun protection helping protect the treated skin while it settles.
International patients planning more than one acne scar treatment session should discuss a realistic schedule, since a full course is typically spaced four to six weeks apart between passes.
Suitability & Screening
Suitability is confirmed through an honest health review.
Treatment may be modified, delayed or declined when certain health factors are present, or when your scarring is better addressed with a different approach.
Acne scar treatment may be discussed when:
- You have depressed textural scarring — icepick, boxcar, rolling, or a mix — left behind by past acne.
- Your active acne is currently controlled, since scar treatment is generally planned once breakouts have settled.
- You are able to attend a staged course of sessions spaced four to six weeks apart.
- You understand results build gradually and accept that scarring cannot be fully reversed.
- You have not had a recent aggressive laser, peel or procedure that could increase treatment risk right now.
Tell the doctor before treatment about:
- Pregnancy, planned pregnancy or breastfeeding.
- Current or recent use of isotretinoin, which typically requires a waiting period before laser or RF treatment.
- Any active acne breakouts, rosacea, or active skin infection in the treatment area.
- A history of keloid scarring, cold sores, or slow or abnormal wound healing.
- Any previous laser, microneedling, RF or filler treatment for scarring, including outcomes and how your skin responded.
Aftercare
Let the area heal, then protect the results.
Follow the instructions provided by the treating doctor after each session. Sun protection and gentle skincare both matter for how the treated area heals and how well collagen remodelling progresses.
Keep Skincare Gentle While Healing
Avoid strong actives, exfoliants or fragranced products on the treated area until any redness, flaking or peeling has fully settled.
Avoid Picking at Peeling Skin
Following precision CO2 laser sessions especially, let peeling skin shed naturally rather than picking, to avoid disrupting collagen remodelling.
Strict Daily Sun Protection
Apply broad-spectrum SPF daily, both while healing and afterward, since treated skin is more prone to pigment change while it recovers.
Attend the Review Visit
Attend the follow-up review so the doctor can confirm healing and decide whether the area needs a further session.
Safety Information
General information, not a substitute for consultation.
This page provides general educational information about acne scar treatment technologies. It does not replace an individual medical consultation, and effects, recovery and suitability vary between patients.
Seek prompt attention for:
- Pigment that appears markedly darker or more widespread than expected in the weeks after a session, rather than settling.
- Persistent or worsening redness, heat, or discomfort in the treated area beyond the expected healing window.
- Blistering, unusual crusting, or open skin breakdown at the treated area, beyond the peeling expected after CO2 laser.
- Signs of infection, including increasing pain, warmth, discharge or fever at the treated area.
- Any allergic reaction to topical products used as part of the treatment plan, such as significant redness, swelling or itching.
Any sign that the treated area is not healing as expected should be reported to the clinic promptly rather than waiting for the next scheduled review. Adjusting the technology, depth or settings for future sessions is often the right response to protect the skin's long-term outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
Questions about acne scar treatment.
Technology selection, session count, expected timelines and maintenance guidance are confirmed during consultation.
What are the different types of acne scars?
Most acne scars are atrophic, meaning depressed rather than raised, and fall into three patterns: narrow, deep icepick scars; broader, sharply-edged boxcar scars; and shallow, wave-like rolling scars caused by fibrous bands beneath the skin. Many patients have a mix of these, which is why classification matters before treatment.
Can acne scars be completely removed?
Scar texture can be meaningfully softened with consistent treatment, but established scarring cannot be fully reversed to a pre-acne state. The realistic goal is a visibly smoother, less defined appearance rather than complete removal.
What's the difference between microneedling RF and precision CO2 laser for acne scars?
Microneedling RF delivers radiofrequency energy beneath the skin surface to stimulate collagen remodelling with comparatively less surface injury, often preferred for rolling scars and for patients with more melanin-rich skin. Precision CO2 laser ablates controlled columns of tissue to trigger deeper remodelling, often considered for deeper icepick or boxcar scars. Which is proposed, or whether a combination is used, depends on the classified pattern.
How many sessions are usually needed?
Acne scar revision is typically delivered as a staged course, often three to six sessions spaced roughly four to six weeks apart. Deeper icepick scarring or mixed patterns generally need more sessions than shallow rolling or boxcar scarring.
Does acne scar treatment hurt?
Most patients describe moderate discomfort, and topical or local numbing is commonly used beforehand for both microneedling RF and precision CO2 laser. Discomfort during CO2 laser sessions is generally more noticeable than with microneedling RF.
What is the downtime after treatment?
Downtime varies by technology — microneedling RF typically involves a few days of redness, while precision CO2 laser involves several days of visible peeling before new skin fully settles. Most patients plan a few days away from major social commitments after a session.
Can I have scar treatment while I still have active acne?
Generally, active breakouts are brought under control first. Treating scarring while acne is still active can trigger new inflammation and new scarring, so the doctor typically confirms acne is stable before starting a scar-revision course.
Is acne scar treatment the same as pore treatment?
No. Acne scar treatment addresses depressed textural scarring from tissue damage during breakouts, while pore treatment addresses the appearance of the follicle opening itself. The two often overlap and can be assessed together, but they are treated as distinct concerns — LOUAVE also publishes a dedicated Pore Treatment page.
Is this treatment safe for darker or Asian skin tones?
Microneedling RF is often preferred as a first-line option for more melanin-rich skin, since its energy is delivered beneath the surface with comparatively lower risk of triggering post-inflammatory pigmentation than aggressive ablative resurfacing. Skin tone is reviewed at consultation to help guide technology and depth selection.
Can acne scar treatment be combined with other treatments?
Yes. It's often planned alongside pigmentation treatment for residual post-acne marks, or sequenced with skin booster treatments to support overall skin quality between resurfacing sessions. Combination planning is confirmed together at consultation.
International Appointment
Plan your acne scar treatment around a confirmed scar type.
Share close-up photos of the scarred areas, your skin type, how long ago your acne was active, any previous laser, microneedling or filler treatments for scarring, preferred appointment dates and your Seoul travel schedule. Since a full course may span three or more sessions spaced weeks apart, the doctor will help confirm a schedule that fits your trip.
Important treatment information
This page provides general educational information about acne scar treatment technologies and does not replace an individual medical consultation. Depressed acne scarring includes icepick, boxcar and rolling patterns, and microneedling RF or precision CO2 laser treatment can soften scar depth and improve texture; it does not fully restore skin to a pre-acne state, close enlarged pores, or remove residual post-acne pigment marks, which are distinct concerns. Treatment must be planned by an appropriately experienced medical professional after reviewing scar type and depth, skin tone, active acne status, previous laser, microneedling or RF treatments, health history, medications, allergies and informed consent. Temporary effects may include redness, swelling or visible peeling in the treated area, which typically settles within one to two weeks of each session depending on technology. Other possible effects include post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, incomplete improvement requiring further sessions, or, uncommonly, textural change. Rare but serious complications include prolonged redness, burns, infection, unexpected scarring or textural change, and allergic reactions to topical products used during treatment or recovery. Seek prompt medical advice for pigment that becomes markedly darker or more widespread than expected, blistering or unusual skin breakdown, signs of infection, or symptoms of a significant allergic reaction. Daily sun protection is recommended both during healing and afterward, and results, session count, onset, and long-term stability vary by individual and cannot be guaranteed.