Best treatments for acne scars: what actually works
TL;DR
The best treatment for acne scars depends on the type of scar. For indented scars, microneedling is usually the most effective salon treatment because it rebuilds collagen. For the red or dark marks acne leaves behind, chemical peels often work better. Results build over a course, and acne should be under control before treatment starts.
Finding the best treatment for acne scars can feel overwhelming, because so many options promise smooth skin. The honest answer is that the right treatment depends on what kind of marks you have, and that most scarring improves gradually over a course rather than disappearing after one session.
This guide explains the different types of acne scarring, which salon treatments help each one, how many sessions to expect and what it costs. Gina has over 10 years' experience in the beauty industry and specialises in skincare, and she sees acne scarring concerns every week at our Sutton Coldfield salon.
Quick facts
- The concern
- indented scars, raised scars or flat red and dark marks left after acne
- What causes it
- inflammation from acne damaging collagen in the skin, often made worse by picking or squeezing
- Treatments that can help
- microneedling, Medik8 chemical peels and SKINSTORM facials
- Typical sessions
- a course of several treatments, as results build gradually
- Results timeline
- improvements build over weeks to months as new collagen forms
- Price
- microneedling from £100, peels from £40, SKINSTORM from £175
- First step
- a free skin consultation to assess your scar type
What types of acne scars are there?
Acne scars fall into two broad groups: indented scars, where collagen has been lost and the skin sits lower, and marks, which are flat areas of red, pink or brown discolouration. Indented scars include rolling scars, boxcar scars and deep, narrow ice pick scars. Marks are technically not scars at all and usually respond more easily to treatment.
- Rolling scars: wide, shallow dips that give the skin an uneven, wavy texture.
- Boxcar scars: broader depressions with sharper edges.
- Ice pick scars: narrow, deep pits that are the hardest to improve.
- Red or dark marks: flat discolouration left after spots heal, also called post-inflammatory marks.
Knowing which you have is the first step to choosing the best treatment for acne scars, which is why we always start with a look at your skin in person.
What is the best treatment for acne scars?
For indented acne scars, microneedling is usually the best salon treatment, because the tiny channels it creates trigger the skin to rebuild collagen and gradually soften the dips. For flat red or dark marks, chemical peels tend to work better, because they speed up the skin's renewal and fade discolouration. Many people have both types and benefit from combining treatments over time.
Microneedling for acne scars
Microneedling at Gina Rose Beauty uses a serum such as exosomes, Medik8 exoPDRN or FGF10, applied as the channels are created so it can work deeper in the skin. Exosomes and FGF10 are well suited to scarring and texture concerns. You can compare them in our guide to microneedling with exosomes, exoPDRN or FGF10.
Chemical peels for acne marks
Our Medik8 chemical peels help with uneven tone, texture and scarring, and are especially useful for the red and brown marks that often sit alongside indented scars. We usually start with a gentler peel and build up strength over time.
SKINSTORM for an all-round approach
A SKINSTORM facial combines resurfacing, an oxygen ice peel, oxygen ice needling and light therapy in one treatment, and acne scars are one of the concerns it targets. A course of six is recommended for a specific concern, and some clients move on to standalone microneedling once their results have settled.
Gina's tip: Take a photo of your skin in the same spot, in the same light, before your first session. Scar improvements are gradual, and comparing photos is the best way to see how far you've come.
Can acne scars be removed completely?
Most acne scars can't be removed completely, but they can often be softened and made much less noticeable. Shallow rolling scars and flat marks usually respond best. Deep ice pick scars are the hardest to treat, and some may need medical procedures from a dermatologist. We'll always be honest with you about what's realistic for your skin.
Should acne be under control before treating scars?
Yes. It's best to treat scarring once active breakouts are under control, because treating inflamed skin can spread bacteria and new spots can create new marks. If you have lots of spots, deep painful spots, or acne that isn't improving with over-the-counter treatments, the NHS advises seeing a GP, especially if it's causing scarring.
Microneedling and peels also aren't suitable during pregnancy, with cold sores or skin infections, or after recent isotretinoin (Roaccutane) use. If you have a bleeding disorder, take blood thinners or scar easily, tell us at your consultation.
How many sessions do acne scars need, and what does it cost?
Most people need a course of several sessions to see a real difference in acne scarring, because each treatment builds on the last as collagen slowly rebuilds. Improvements continue for weeks after each session. The exact number depends on how deep your scars are and how your skin responds.
At Gina Rose Beauty, microneedling starts from £100 per session, chemical peels from £40, and SKINSTORM from £175, or £950 for a course of six. We'll recommend the best treatment for acne scars on your skin, with a clear plan and price, at your free consultation. A 2024 clinical review of microneedling also supports its use for acne scarring.
Protecting your progress
Wear SPF 30 or higher every day throughout your course, because sun exposure can darken marks and undo progress. Avoid picking or squeezing spots, and keep your routine gentle between treatments.
About the author
Gina is the owner of Gina Rose Beauty in Sutton Coldfield and has over 10 years' experience in the beauty industry. She specialises in advanced skincare and runs a fully accredited training academy for aspiring beauty professionals. Meet Gina and the team. Last reviewed: October 2026.
Book a free skin consultation in Sutton Coldfield
Want to know the best treatment for acne scars on your skin? Book a free, no-obligation consultation and we'll assess your scar type and recommend a plan, with clear pricing. Book your free skin consultation on Fresha
You can also read more about what happens at a skin consultation, microneedling at Gina Rose Beauty, or explore all our skincare treatments.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best treatment for acne scars?
It depends on the scar type. For indented scars, microneedling is usually the best treatment for acne scars because it rebuilds collagen. For flat red or dark marks, chemical peels often work better.
Is microneedling good for acne scars?
Yes. Microneedling is often considered the best treatment for acne scars in a salon, because the tiny channels it creates trigger new collagen that gradually softens indented scarring.
Can acne scars be removed completely?
Usually not completely, but most can be softened and made much less noticeable. Deep ice pick scars are the hardest to treat and may need a dermatologist.
How many sessions do I need for acne scars?
Most people need a course of several sessions, because improvements build gradually as new collagen forms. We'll recommend a number based on your scars at your consultation.
How much does acne scar treatment cost?
Microneedling starts from £100 per session and chemical peels from £40 at our Sutton Coldfield salon. A course of six SKINSTORM facials is £950.
Can I treat acne scars while I still have spots?
It's best to wait until breakouts are under control. If your acne isn't improving or is causing scarring, see your GP first.
What's the difference between acne scars and acne marks?
Scars are indented or raised changes in the skin's texture. Marks are flat red, pink or brown patches left after spots heal, and they usually fade more easily with treatment and daily SPF.