What is considered "shallow" acne scarring vs deep acne scarring? (Photo)

Question

From what I know about resurfacing, it's the most efficient treatment for "shallow" scarring and works best on lighter skin. Are these boxcar scars and would my scars be considered deep or shallow? 2nd, what is considered "light" skin? light and dark are subjective to different ethnicities so where on the dark to light spectrum does laser resurfacing become less effective? Also, If I am a candidate for laser resurfacing, based on the depth of my scarring, is 1 treatment sufficient?

Brian S. Biesman, MD · Answer

Acne scarring is a complicated condition which typically requires a number of different modalities to get best outcomes.  I find that for scarring such is demonstrated in the pictures you have provided, a combination of surgery, laser treatment, and possibly injections may be required.  There is no single treatment that is likely to provide you with as much improvement as you would like to achieve.  I do feel that you are an excellent candidate for treatment but be prepared for a number of treatment sessions as opposed to a single treatment.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

You need a cosmetic dermatologist who specializes in acne scarring/pigmentation and does a combination of treatments including: surgery, subcision, or TCA cross for deep or pitted "ice pick" scars; fillers like Bellafill or Sculptra or Radiesse for broad "boxcar" or "rolling" scars; Eclipse Micropen for all types of scars and improvement in texture and tone; lasers such as co2 laser resurfacing or Fraxel/Clear+Brilliant or radiofrequency such as Sublative or Viva to improve the scars and give long term collagen production. There are many options but you want someone who can customize a regimen for your short and long term goals based on your individual situation. Best, Dr. Emer.

William Groff, DO · Answer

Based on your photos, you have a combination of atrophic, boxcar, and ice pick type scars. We have over 45 lasers in our practice, and the best lasers for acne scars are the Fraxel Restore and the Fraxel repair. You will most likely need multiple treatments,depending on your goals.

Kimberly Lee, MD · Answer

Lasers are defined by their wavelengths and each serves a different purpose.  The acne scars in the limited photos are on the deeper side and appear to be a good candidate for laser treatment.  You would need a series of treatments but it would be best to consult with a board certified specialist who can help you achieve the results you seek and perform the treatments him/herself.

What is considered "shallow" acne scarring vs deep acne scarring? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Acne Scars

Answer: Acne Scars

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Everything you need to know about Laser Resurfacing

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What is considered "shallow" acne scarring vs deep acne scarring? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Acne Scars

Answer: Acne Scars

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Laser Resurfacing

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.