Scar Removal - how can I improve the acne scars on my lip? (Photo)

Hello! My name is Jessica, I am a physician assistant, and one of the providers at Aesthetic Skin - Winnetka & Chicago. This is a great question. CO2 resurfacing can be a very effective option for improving acne scars on and around the lip because it creates controlled micro-injuries that stimulate collagen and smooth the skin’s surface. Most people see noticeable improvement in shallow scars after one session, while deeper scars may need multiple treatments or a combined approach—such as CO2 plus microneedling, subcision, or targeted filler. Recovery involves redness, swelling, and crusting for several days, but the collagen remodeling continues for months, giving gradual tightening and smoothing.

Hello. Thank you for the clear description and photo. Lip scars are unique because the area moves constantly and light catches the white roll and vermilion border. Without an in person exam any plan is provisional. The outline below can help frame next steps.
What is likely going on• A small atrophic pit or a fine linear scar at the cutaneous lip or white roll• If the white roll alignment is interrupted the shadow can make a small scar look larger
Will time fix it• Mature acne scars rarely fade enough to blend on their own• Texture and color can be improved with targeted treatments
Nonsurgical options while you decide• Precise TCA CROSS for a tiny pit in the cutaneous lip. Two to four sessions spaced 6 to 8 weeks apart• Very small hyaluronic acid micro droplets to level a pit or blend the white roll. Conservative volumes reduce lump risk• Fractional non ablative or Erbium laser to soften edges and texture on the skin part above the vermilion• Silicone gel on the skin portion for several weeks can support remodeling. Not for the mucosal red lip
When a revision makes sense• A linear scar that crosses or distorts the white roll• A deep, well circumscribed pit that does not respond to CROSS• A notch at the vermilion border that catches light in photos
What a revision usually involves for this pattern• Micro punch excision for a stubborn single pit with fine closure along natural lines• Precise scar revision to realign the white roll if the border is stepped. Often followed by gentle dermabrasion or light fractional laser once healed• Tiny vermilion advancement for a notch limited to the border when alignment is the main problem• Any filler is used sparingly after full healing to polish the contour
Expectations and timeline• CROSS crusting clears in 5 to 7 days with pinkness that fades over weeks• Surgical micro revision is presentable at 7 to 10 days with maturation over 3 to 6 months• Fractional laser has a few days of redness and roughness• Sun protection reduces pigment shift in the upper lip skin
Smart questions for your consultation• Is the issue mainly a pit, a border misalignment or both• Would you start with CROSS, laser or a precise micro revision in my case• How will white roll alignment be preserved to avoid notching• What is the expected downtime and how many sessions are likely• When could a small filler touch be added safely if needed
If a case specific view would help, clear close up photos in neutral light from front and slight oblique angles allow a tailored plan before any medical evaluation. Coordinators can help collect these details through a short complimentary conversation.
Wishing you a smooth process and a natural looking lip line in photos and in real life.Güray Yeşiladalı, MD

Hi! Thanks for sharing your concern. Acne scars on the lip area can be a bit delicate due to the thin skin and constant movement, but there are several ways to help improve their appearance:

Topical treatments: Products containing ingredients like niacinamide, retinoids, or gentle chemical exfoliants can help smooth texture and fade discoloration over time.

Laser or light-based treatments: Fractional lasers or non-ablative lasers can help remodel the scar tissue and improve texture without major downtime.

Microneedling: This can stimulate collagen production and improve the appearance of small, shallow scars.

Filler: In some cases, a small amount of dermal filler can smooth depressed scars, but this is best evaluated in person.

Sun protection: Daily SPF is crucial, especially on the lips, to prevent hyperpigmentation and worsening of scars.

Improvement usually takes a combination of treatments and patience, as lip skin is sensitive. The exact approach would depend on the scar type, depth, and your overall skin goals.