Acne scars: why do acne marks develop?

Acne scars develop when the sebaceous gland becomes inflamed and the surrounding collagen fibres are damaged and replaced by scar tissue containing lower-quality collagen.

There are technologies and treatments that can successfully reduce and improve the appearance of these marks.
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cicatrices acne

Acne scars: why do acne marks develop?

Acne scars develop when the sebaceous gland becomes inflamed and the surrounding collagen fibres are damaged and replaced by scar tissue containing lower-quality collagen.

There are technologies and treatments that can successfully reduce and improve the appearance of these marks.
–
Request an appointment

cicatrices acne

How can red acne marks be removed?

After acne, red marks may remain as a residual effect of the inflammatory process. They can persist for weeks or months, meaning that even after the spot has disappeared, a red or brown mark may remain.

These red acne marks can be effectively reduced or removed with laser or IPL treatment and, in some cases, with specific topical creams.

Types of acne scars and how to treat them

  • Boxcar scars have a wide diameter (more than 2 mm) and clearly defined edges.
  • Ice-pick scars: small, deep punctiform scars less than 2 mm in diameter.
  • Rolling scars: shallower depressions that affect larger areas and give the skin an uneven, textured appearance.

Treatment differs for each type, although many patients have all three types of acne scar, so we combine treatments.

How can red acne marks be removed?

After acne, red marks may remain as a residual effect of the inflammatory process. They can persist for weeks or months, meaning that even after the spot has disappeared, a red or brown mark may remain.

These red acne marks can be effectively reduced or removed with laser or IPL treatment and, in some cases, with specific topical creams.

Types of acne scars and how to treat them

  • Boxcar scars have a wide diameter (more than 2 mm) and clearly defined edges.
  • Ice-pick scars: small, deep punctiform scars less than 2 mm in diameter.
  • Rolling scars: shallower depressions that affect larger areas and give the skin an uneven, textured appearance.

Treatment differs for each type, although many patients have all three types of acne scar, so we combine treatments.

Before and after acne scars

cicatrices acné antes después
acne cicatrices antes despuesantes después acné
acne scars

The best technology to reduce or remove acne marks

  • Medical consultation to assess the type and severity of acne scarring.
  • Personalisation of treatment, which may combine several techniques.
  • We treat mild, moderate and deep acne scars.
  • We use Fraxel laser, picosecond laser or CO2 laser, depending on the type of acne scar.

Price
Depends on the type and severity of the scars

Sessions
3–5 sessions (1 per month)

Results
Visible from the first session

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    indications

    Acne scar treatment in Barcelona at Ribe Clinic

    Depending on the severity of the acne scar or mark, we use the most appropriate type of laser.

    • Mild or moderate acne scars
      The best option is the non-ablative fractional Fraxel re-store or Frax laser, which remodels scar collagen and stimulates the formation of new collagen.
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      In addition, the heat from the laser helps to destroy the Propionebacterium Acnes bacteria, thereby reducing the appearance of further acne.
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      Another option is the fractional picosecond laser, indicated for Asian patients and those with higher skin phototypes (darker skin).
    • Severe and/or deep acne scars
      The ablative fractional CO2 laser heats the tissue to 100°C, breaking down scar collagen, stimulating new collagen formation and causing skin contraction.
    sessions

    How many sessions do I need to reduce acne marks?

    The number of sessions needed to remove or improve acne scars and marks depends on the severity of the scarring, the skin type and the results achieved as treatment progresses.

    Mild or moderate:

    • Fractional Fraxel Re-Store or Frax laser: 3 to 5 sessions, one session every 15–30 days.
    • Fractional picosecond laser: 4–6 sessions, one every 2 weeks.

    Severe and/or deep:

    • Fractional CO2 laser: 2 sessions, one every 3–6 months.
    sessions

    Aftercare

    Simply apply a repairing or moisturising cream to the treated area for a few days (7–10 days), together with sun protection (SPF 50+). For deep acne scars and marks, an antibiotic cream and herpes simplex prophylaxis are recommended.

    Frequently asked questions

    Laser treatment stimulates the formation of new collagen in the dermis and remodels existing collagen, gradually “filling” the scar. It also regenerates the epidermis where it was atrophic and depressed. As a result, acne marks gradually become smoother and can be reduced by up to 80%.

    As laser treatment for acne scars and marks works by stimulating collagen, the results depend not only on the laser and the practitioner’s technique but also on the patient’s ability to produce collagen. Results therefore depend on several factors: the type of laser, the number of sessions, the type of scar and the patient’s capacity to produce collagen.

    • With the fractional Fraxel re-store or Frax laser for mild or moderate acne marks, the skin may be red, warm and slightly swollen after the session. Normal social activities can be resumed immediately.
    • With the fractional CO2 laser for deep acne scars, the skin will be red and warm after the session, with swelling and tiny scabs of less than one millimetre that usually disappear after around one week, depending on the treatment intensity. Staying at home for one week is recommended (social downtime).
    • With the fractional picosecond laser, the skin may be red, warm and slightly swollen after the session. Normal social activities can be resumed immediately.

    Both risks and side effects are very unlikely and generally minor. It is important to follow the doctor’s instructions and use high-factor sun protection (SPF 50+). These treatments for acne scars and marks can be carried out throughout the year provided the doctor’s guidance is followed.

    Why Choose Ribe Clinic

    TREATMENTS PERFORMED BY DOCTORS

    Experience and Exclusivity

    Dr Adriana Ribé personally conducts consultations and performs the medical treatments.

    safe treatments at Ribe Clinic

    Medical Safety

    Materials and devices with QR codes and CE certification. Scientifically supported protocols.

    Follow-up throughout treatment

    Patient Follow-up

    Follow-up appointments and direct consultations with the doctor regarding the treatments performed.

    sustainable clinic Ribe Clinic

    Sustainable Clinic

    The first aesthetic medicine clinic committed to sustainability.

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