Acne & Acne Scars
Active breakouts, post-inflammatory marks, and atrophic scarring are treated as distinct clinical problems at IVI. Our doctors address active inflammation first, then remodel scarred skin with a combination protocol selected for your specific scar pattern.
Acne and acne scars are two different problems.
Acne is active inflammation in the oil glands and follicles — sebum, clogged pores, bacteria and redness. Acne scars are what is left behind once that settles: depressed or raised texture, and lingering marks.
They need different treatments, in a deliberate order. We calm active acne first — with medication and in-clinic care — then resurface the scarring. Treating scars too early can flare inflammation and undo the results.
Scars are not all alike either. Rolling, boxcar, ice-pick and raised scars each respond to different tools, so your doctor maps your pattern at consultation and combines treatments to match.
Treatments we use most.
- Picosecond Laser — fades post-acne marks and pigmentation with ultra-short pulses that limit heat to surrounding skin.
- RF Microneedling (Sylfirm X®) — calms inflammatory acne and post-acne redness while refining skin texture.
- Fractional RF Microneedling (Morpheus 8®) — remodels rolling and boxcar acne scars by rebuilding dermal collagen at depth.
- Polynucleotide Skin Booster (Rejuran®) — supports skin repair after active acne, improving texture and resilience.
- Acne Scar Polynucleotide (PN) Booster — for atrophic scarring: polynucleotides prompt fibroblast activity and collagen synthesis in pitted, rolling and boxcar scars.
Acne & Acne Scars FAQ
What's the difference between active acne and acne scars?
Active acne is current inflammation — papules, pustules, comedones and cysts. Acne scars are the lasting changes left afterwards: atrophic (depressed) scars, hypertrophic (raised) scars, or post-inflammatory pigmentation. Each needs different treatment, and they're usually handled in sequence — clearing active acne first, then remodelling the scars.
How many sessions will I need?
It depends on scar type and depth. Mild post-acne marks often improve over 2–4 picosecond laser sessions; deeper atrophic scars typically take 4–8 sessions of fractional RF microneedling, 4–6 weeks apart. Your doctor sets realistic expectations after assessing your skin in person.
Is there downtime?
Picosecond laser has minimal downtime — mild redness for a few hours. Fractional RF microneedling involves 2–5 days of social downtime: pinpoint redness, micro-channels and some tightness. Your doctor will explain aftercare for your specific plan.
Can I treat scars while I still have active acne?
Active acne should be controlled first — treating scars over live inflammation can worsen it and give uneven results. We typically clear active acne with medication and in-clinic care before starting scar remodelling.
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