Acne Scar Treatments That Actually Work: Subcision, Microneedling & More

Acne can leave more than breakouts — it can leave scars that affect your confidence long after pimples have healed. Fortunately, modern dermatologic treatments at MDCS Dermatology offer real solutions for acne scars of all types. Gregory S. Phillips, MD helps patients select the best therapies — from subcision and microneedling to advanced laser and filler combinations — to smooth texture and improve skin tone.

Why Acne Scars Form

Acne scars arise when deeper lesions disrupt the skin’s normal healing process. Scar types include:

• Atrophic (depressed) scars — such as ice‑pick, boxcar, or rolling scars
  

• Hypertrophic scars — raised scar tissue
  

• Post‑inflammatory pigment changes — dark or red marks that linger after acne heals
  

Because each scar type responds differently to treatment, individualized plans are key.

Subcision: Releasing Depressed Scars

Subcision is a minimally invasive technique where a dermatologist uses a small needle to break the fibrous bands tethering depressed scars to deeper tissue.

How it helps:

• Releases scar “anchors” to allow the skin to rise
  

• Stimulates natural healing and new collagen
  

• Often paired with fillers or microneedling for enhanced results
  

This is ideal for rolling scars or deep, tethered indentations where traditional resurfacing alone won’t reach.

Microneedling: Collagen Stimulation From Within

Microneedling uses tiny controlled punctures to trigger the skin’s own collagen production.

Benefits include:

• Improved texture and firmness
  

• Smoother appearance of shallow scars
  

• Boosted results when combined with PRP (platelet‑rich plasma) or serums
  

Microneedling is versatile and can be tailored in strength and depth for each patient’s needs.

Laser & Energy‑Based Treatments

For broader resurfacing or pigmentation concerns, advanced energy devices can make dramatic improvements:

• Fractional lasers target micro‑zones to remodel collagen
  

• Non‑ablative lasers improve tone while minimizing downtime
  

• Intense pulsed light (IPL) addresses pigmentation and redness
  

Dr. Phillips selects the best energy modality based on your scar depth, skin type, and desired healing time.

Fillers & Combined Approaches

Certain acne scars respond well to soft tissue fillers that elevate depressed areas. When combined with subcision, microneedling, or laser therapy, fillers can provide immediate contour improvement while deeper remodeling occurs.

Creating a Customized Plan

Because acne scarring varies widely from person to person, treatment is rarely “one size fits all.” In consultation at MDCS Dermatology, Gregory S. Phillips, MD evaluates scar type, skin tone, texture, and lifestyle to recommend the most effective regimen — often combining multiple modalities for optimal results.

What to Expect

Most acne scar treatments involve a series of sessions spaced weeks apart. Mild redness, swelling, or dryness may occur after procedures, but downtime is typically manageable — and improvements continue over time as collagen builds.

Whether your scars are mild or deep, there’s a pathway to smoother, more even skin.