Acne marks or scars? Look at color and texture

Hello, I’m Dr. Kim Yeon-jin, representative director of UHCELL Clinic Gangnam.

When a breakout settles but a mark stays on your cheek, a scar laser may seem like the next step. A change in color is not the same as a dent in the skin. I check color, surface height and new inflammation before choosing a device. Calling every mark a scar can overlook acne that still needs treatment.

Flat color or a change in skin height?

A red or brown area that is level with the surrounding skin may be a post-acne mark. A depression or firm raised area needs assessment for scarring. Both can occur together, and a photograph may not show the distinction.

Brown marks may involve post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation; redness needs its own assessment. Lighting and skin tone also change what you see. Don’t press or scrub the area to test it. I don’t set the same timeline for a fading mark and a change in an indented scar. They have different treatment goals.

If deep, painful breakouts are still appearing

Treating old marks alone is not enough when new acne keeps developing. Active inflammation and scarring need to be considered together, often starting with control of active acne. Order matters.

Mention deep nodules, pus or repeated swelling. Picking, squeezing and removing scabs can add inflammation and marks. Note whether new spots affect your cheeks, chin or forehead. Bring the names of oral and topical treatments, including isotretinoin and retinoids, and when you used them. This is not a request to stop medication on your own.

What to discuss before choosing a laser

Narrow deep scars, wider depressions and rolling texture are different patterns. Raised scars need a different approach too. Turning up one device is not a plan for every scar.

• Whether color or uneven texture bothers you, and where
• Current breakouts and acne treatment
• Previous prolonged redness, pigment changes or raised scars
• Important events and time available for recovery

I put skin condition and recovery needs ahead of preset intensity or session counts. Methods and combinations depend on an examination, not on matching an online before-and-after photograph.

At home, avoid adding irritation

Coarse scrubs and strong peels can add irritation rather than remove marks quickly. Start with gentle cleansing, moisturizer and sun protection. Use prescription acne treatments as directed and ask about the routine if irritation is substantial.

Cosmetics cannot be expected to restore a depressed scar to identical unscarred skin. Treatment may make scars less noticeable, but complete removal cannot be promised. Redness, pigment changes and recovery vary. Decide which feature matters to you so the consultation has a clear goal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is every brown mark an indented scar?

No. Flat discoloration and changes in skin height are different, although they can occur together. An examination helps distinguish them.

Can I discuss scars while I still have acne?

Yes. We can assess new inflammation and old marks together and plan the order. It does not mean scar treatment should start immediately.

Should I stop acne medicine before my appointment?

Do not stop it yourself. Bring medication names, duration of use and the most recent dose; discuss any adjustment with your clinician.

※ Individual results and recovery periods may vary. We recommend consulting a specialist for an accurate medical diagnosis.