Understanding Acne Scars
Acne scars develop when inflammation damages skin tissue and collagen fibres, especially after more severe or cystic breakouts. The resulting scar tissue may take different forms depending on how your skin heals.
The most common types of acne scars include:
- Rolling scars which create a wave-like texture
- Boxcar scars with sharply defined edges
- Ice pick scars narrow and deep
- Atrophic scars which appear as wider indentations
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or redness, especially in fairer or sensitive skin types
Treating acne scars effectively means addressing both the visible texture and the underlying changes in collagen structure.
What Is Laser Resurfacing?
Laser resurfacing uses focused light energy to remove damaged skin cells from the outer layers and stimulate deeper collagen production below. This controlled skin injury triggers the body’s natural healing process, helping to replace scarred tissue with new, healthier skin.
At PHI Clinic in London, we use advanced fractionated laser treatment (UltraClear) methods, including non-ablative laser and fractionated CO2 laser technologies. These approaches minimise downtime while offering significant improvements in tone, texture, and skin pigmentation.
How Laser Resurfacing Helps with Acne Scarring
Laser resurfacing supports clearer, smoother skin in several key ways:
- Resurfacing the top layer to soften roughness and irregularities
- Rebuilding the lower dermis by stimulating collagen and elastin
- Reducing discolouration such as post-inflammatory redness or dark marks
- Minimising pore size and refining overall skin texture
This treatment can be used on the face, chest, back, and other treatment areas affected by acne. Many patients begin to notice visible improvements after one session, with further results developing over time.
Combining Laser Resurfacing with Other Treatments
In many cases, we combine laser resurfacing with complementary options to enhance results and promote skin health. This may include:
- Polynucleotides or skin boosters to encourage hydration and tissue regeneration
- Microneedling or radiofrequency treatments for deeper collagen stimulation
- Chemical peels for refining pigment and surface texture
- Pulsed-dye lasers such as ExcelV+ to target persistent redness
- Medical-grade skincare to support the healing process and prepare skin pre-treatment
Every acne scar treatment plan at PHI Clinic is tailored to your skin type, scarring pattern, and personal goals.
What to Expect from Your Session
A laser resurfacing appointment begins with a full skin consultation. On the day of treatment, a numbing cream is applied for comfort. The laser session typically lasts 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the treatment area and the technique used.
Following your treatment, you may experience mild swelling, redness, or tightness, similar to sunburn. These effects are part of the normal skin healing process. We will provide full post-care instructions, including how to support recovery at home and when to resume skincare or makeup use.
When Will I See Results?
Most patients see smoother texture and better tone within a few weeks. However, the long-term benefits of laser resurfacing develop gradually, with continued improvement over three to six months as collagen rebuilds.
Depending on the type and severity of your acne scars, your practitioner may recommend a single session or a series of treatment sessions spaced several weeks apart.
Is It Safe for All Skin Types?
Laser resurfacing is suitable for many skin types, but careful customisation is key. During your consultation, we will assess the type of acne scars, any underlying skin conditions, and your skin tone to recommend the safest and most effective treatment approach.
It is important that active acne is managed before resurfacing. We may suggest AviClear or another acne treatment before proceeding to address scarring.
Ready to take the next step?
If acne scars are affecting how you feel about your skin, PHI Clinic is here to help. With precision laser therapy, expert medical oversight, and a personalised approach, we offer safe, effective cosmetic procedures designed to improve the look and feel of your skin.
Book a consultation to begin your tailored Acne Scar Laser Treatment and explore how laser resurfacing can restore clarity, confidence, and smoother skin.
