20 Ways to Get Rid of Acne Scars

 

20 Ways to Get Rid of Acne Scars

Acne is a common skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide, and unfortunately, even after the acne heals, it often leaves behind scars. Acne scars can be frustrating and may affect self-confidence. However, with the right knowledge and treatments, these scars can be significantly reduced or even eliminated. There are various methods, ranging from home remedies to medical treatments, each suitable for different types and severities of acne scars. Below, we explore 20 effective ways to get rid of acne scars.



1. Topical Retinoids

Retinoids are vitamin A derivatives that promote cell turnover and prevent clogged pores. Topical retinoids, such as tretinoin, adapalene, and tazarotene, help fade hyperpigmentation, smooth skin texture, and reduce the appearance of acne scars.

How It Works: Retinoids increase collagen production, which improves skin elasticity and fills in depressed scars over time.

Tip: Start with a lower concentration to avoid irritation and gradually increase usage as tolerated.

2. Chemical Peels

Chemical peels involve applying acids, such as glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or lactic acid, to the skin to exfoliate the top layer. This process promotes new skin growth, improves texture, and lightens discoloration caused by acne scars.

Benefits:

  • Reduces hyperpigmentation

  • Smooths uneven skin

  • Helps treat mild to moderate scars

Professional Advice: Medium to deep chemical peels should be performed by a dermatologist for best results.

3. Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is a minimally invasive procedure that exfoliates the outermost layer of skin using fine crystals or a diamond-tipped device. It stimulates collagen production, improves skin texture, and fades shallow acne scars.

Ideal For: Superficial scars and uneven skin tone.

Note: Multiple sessions are usually required to see noticeable results.

4. Microneedling

Microneedling involves tiny needles that create micro-injuries in the skin, stimulating collagen and elastin production. This treatment improves skin texture and reduces the depth of acne scars.

Advantages:

  • Can treat both atrophic and boxcar scars

  • Minimally invasive with short recovery time

Tip: Pairing microneedling with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) can accelerate healing and enhance results.

5. Laser Treatments

Laser therapy uses targeted light to resurface the skin, stimulate collagen production, and reduce pigmentation. Different types of lasers, such as fractional CO2 lasers and erbium lasers, are effective for acne scars.

Benefits:

  • Improves scar depth and texture

  • Can reduce redness and pigmentation

  • Non-invasive option for moderate to severe scars

Professional Advice: Multiple sessions are often required, and downtime may vary depending on the laser type.

6. Dermal Fillers

For deep, pitted acne scars, dermal fillers like hyaluronic acid or calcium hydroxylapatite can temporarily fill in the indentations, providing smoother skin.

Pros: Immediate improvement in appearance with minimal downtime.

Cons: Results are temporary and typically last 6–18 months, requiring repeat treatments.

7. Subcision

Subcision is a minor surgical procedure used for depressed scars. A dermatologist inserts a needle under the scar to break fibrous tissue, allowing the skin to lift naturally.

Best For: Rolling scars that create uneven skin surfaces.

Recovery: Mild swelling and bruising may occur, but improvement is often noticeable after a few weeks.



8. Steroid Injections

Keloid or hypertrophic acne scars, which are raised and thick, can be treated with corticosteroid injections. These injections reduce inflammation, flatten scars, and prevent further growth.

Tip: Multiple sessions spaced a few weeks apart may be needed for optimal results.

9. Natural Remedies

Some natural remedies can help lighten scars and improve skin texture over time. Common options include:

  • Aloe Vera: Soothes skin, reduces redness, and promotes healing

  • Honey: Moisturizes and has antibacterial properties

  • Lemon Juice: Lightens hyperpigmentation (use with caution and sunscreen)

Note: Results are gradual and may vary based on scar type and skin sensitivity.

10. Vitamin C Serum

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that brightens skin and stimulates collagen production. Topical vitamin C serums can reduce the appearance of dark spots left by acne scars and improve overall skin tone.

Tip: Apply daily, preferably in the morning, and always use sunscreen to prevent further pigmentation.

11. Sunscreen Protection

Sun exposure can darken scars and delay healing. Using broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher protects the skin from harmful UV rays and prevents hyperpigmentation.

Recommendation: Apply sunscreen daily, even on cloudy days, and reapply every 2–3 hours if exposed to sunlight.

12. Exfoliation

Regular exfoliation removes dead skin cells, unclogs pores, and promotes new skin growth. Both physical exfoliants (scrubs) and chemical exfoliants (AHA/BHA) can improve skin texture and reduce superficial acne scars.

Caution: Avoid aggressive scrubbing, as it can worsen scars or irritation.

13. Hydration and Moisturization

Keeping the skin hydrated supports healing and reduces the appearance of scars. Moisturizers containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or glycerin strengthen the skin barrier and improve elasticity.

Tip: Moisturized skin responds better to treatments like chemical peels and laser therapy.

14. Onion Extract Gels

Some over-the-counter gels containing onion extract can help improve the texture and color of scars, especially hypertrophic and raised scars.

Mechanism: Onion extract has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that promote healing and reduce scar formation.

15. Honey and Cinnamon Mask

Honey combined with cinnamon creates a natural mask with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. It can promote skin healing and gradually reduce acne scars when used consistently.

Tip: Apply 2–3 times a week and rinse after 15–20 minutes.

16. Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)

ACV contains natural acids that exfoliate the skin, improve pigmentation, and restore pH balance. Diluted ACV can be used as a toner to lighten dark acne scars.

Caution: Always dilute with water to avoid skin irritation, and perform a patch test before full application.

17. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is rich in fatty acids and vitamin E, which can help repair damaged skin and reduce the appearance of scars. Massaging coconut oil gently onto scars may improve texture and promote healing over time.

Tip: Suitable for dry or normal skin; may cause breakouts in oily skin types.

18. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)

Niacinamide is a versatile skincare ingredient that reduces inflammation, improves skin elasticity, and lightens dark spots caused by acne scars.

Benefits:

  • Reduces redness and hyperpigmentation

  • Strengthens the skin barrier

  • Regulates sebum production

Usage: Available in serums, creams, or toners, typically applied twice daily.

19. Professional Skin Treatments

For stubborn or severe scars, professional treatments offer faster and more noticeable results:

  • Radiofrequency Microneedling: Combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy for deep skin remodeling

  • Cryotherapy: Freezes raised scars to reduce size

  • Punch Excision or Grafting: Surgical removal of deep scars

Note: These treatments should be performed by a qualified dermatologist or plastic surgeon.

20. Patience and Consistency

Lastly, one of the most important “methods” to get rid of acne scars is patience. Skin regeneration takes time, and even the most effective treatments require consistent application over weeks or months. Combining multiple approaches, such as topical treatments with professional procedures, can accelerate results.

Tip: Track progress with photos and follow a daily skincare routine for optimal healing.

Conclusion

Acne scars can be challenging, but with modern skincare and medical advancements, most scars are treatable. From natural remedies to advanced procedures, there are multiple strategies to address different types of acne scars, including depressed, rolling, boxcar, hypertrophic, and keloid scars.

Key takeaways include:

  • Use sun protection to prevent worsening of scars

  • Incorporate treatments that stimulate collagen production

  • Be consistent and patient, as scar reduction is a gradual process

  • Seek professional help for severe or stubborn scars

By understanding the different types of scars and applying the right combination of treatments, you can significantly improve skin appearance, texture, and confidence.

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