Acne Scarring Treatment in Brisbane

Specialist Assessment and Evidence-Based Management

Acne scarring can persist long after active acne has settled. Scars may affect confidence and quality of life, and they often require specialist assessment to determine the most appropriate treatment approach.

At Your Dermatologist, acne scarring management is individualised, evidence-based and realistic, focusing on improving skin texture and appearance while prioritising safety and long-term skin health.

What causes acne scarring?

Acne scarring occurs when inflammation from acne damages the deeper layers of the skin during the healing process. The risk of scarring increases with:

  • Severe or persistent inflammatory acne

  • Nodules or cysts

  • Delayed or inadequate treatment

  • Repeated picking or squeezing

Early control of active acne is the most effective way to reduce the risk of permanent scarring.

Types of acne scars

Not all acne scars are the same. Accurate classification is essential because different scar types respond to different treatments.

Common acne scar types include:

  • Ice-pick scars - narrow, deep scars

  • Boxcar scars - wider scars with sharp edges

  • Rolling scars - broad depressions caused by tethering of the skin

  • Post-acne marks - red or brown marks (not true scars) that may fade over time

  • Keloid or hypertrophic scars – raised, thickened scars

A thorough in-person assessment is required to determine which type (or combination) is present.

Why specialist assessment matters

Acne scarring treatment is rarely “one treatment fits all”. Results depend on:

  • Scar type and depth

  • Skin type and pigmentation risk

  • Ongoing or previous acne activity

  • Individual healing response 

At Your Dermatologist, the priority is to:

  1. Ensure active acne is well controlled

  2. Accurately identify scar type/s

  3. Select treatments with a favourable risk–benefit profile

  4. Set realistic expectations regarding improvement, not perfection

Treatment of post-acne marks

Redness or pigmentation following acne (which is not true scarring) may be managed with:

  • Time and skin-care optimisation

  • Targeted treatments once active acne is controlled

Acne scarring treatment options

Treatment plans are individualised and may involve a combination of approaches over time. Options may include:

Procedural treatments

Depending on scar type and skin characteristics, treatment may include:

  • Techniques to release tethered scars

  • Treatments to stimulate collagen remodelling

  • Targeted resurfacing approaches

Multiple sessions are often required, with gradual improvement over months.

Treatment of post-acne marks

Redness or pigmentation following acne (which is not true scarring) may be managed with:

  • Time and skin-care optimisation

  • Targeted treatments once active acne is controlled

What results can be expected?

Acne scarring treatment aims to improve skin texture and appearance, not to completely erase scars. Improvement is typically:

  • Gradual

  • Incremental

  • Achieved over a series of treatments

A clear discussion of expected outcomes, downtime and risks is an important part of the consultation process.

What to expect at your consultation

Your acne scarring consultation will include:

  • Assessment of acne history and current skin activity

  • Identification of scar types and distribution

  • Discussion of suitable treatment options

  • A personalised, stepwise treatment plan

  • Honest discussion of expected improvement and timeframes

Your Dermatologist Your derm Dr Zachary Boyce East Brisbane Dermatology

Acne scarring dermatologist in Brisbane

If acne scarring is affecting your confidence or wellbeing, specialist assessment can help clarify which treatments are most appropriate for your skin.

At Your Dermatologist, acne scarring care is evidence-based, measured and focused on long-term outcomes - not quick fixes.