Acne Scar Dermatologist in Apgujeong,
Gangnam, Seoul
Board-Certified Dermatologist Top 2% in Korea 13+ Years
Acne Scar Dermatologist · quick answer
How a dermatologist treats acne scars, in one paragraph
Acne scars come in different types, ice-pick, boxcar, rolling and raised, and each responds to different treatments. An acne scar dermatologist first identifies the types, depth and location of your scars and checks that active acne is controlled, then combines methods such as fractional laser, RF microneedling, subcision, TCA CROSS and collagen-stimulating injections. At Ever Skin Clinic in Apgujeong, Gangnam, board-certified dermatologists build this program in stages for gradual, realistic improvement.
Medically reviewed by
Dr. Jieun Kim, M.D.
Founder & Director, Ever Skin Clinic · Board-certified dermatologist
- Adjunct Professor, Hanyang University College of Medicine
- Dermatology residency, Hanyang University Hospital
- Master’s degree in Dermatology, Hanyang University
- Regular Member, Korean Dermatological Association
- Regular Member, Korean Laser Medicine Association
- Member, World Congress of Dermatology
- Published in JAAD and Annals of Dermatology
- English-speaking consultations
Meet our dermatologists → Last reviewed October 2026
- Scar types
- Ice-pick, boxcar, rolling, hypertrophic; plus red or brown marks
- Methods
- Fractional laser, RF microneedling, subcision, TCA CROSS, injections
- Course
- Usually several sessions over months
- Downtime
- A few days to about a week, depending on method
- Results
- Gradual improvement; scars are softened, rarely erased
Scar types
Why scar type determines treatment
Narrow, deep ice-pick scars may not respond to surface treatments alone; boxcar scars have defined edges; rolling scars are broad depressions often tethered by fibrous bands; raised scars need a different approach entirely. Most people have a mix, which is why combination treatment is common.
Red or brown marks after acne are often not true scars. Post-inflammatory redness and pigmentation can respond to vascular or pigment lasers, and active acne should be treated first with acne treatments.
Acne scar types
- Ice-pick : narrow and deep; often TCA CROSS
- Boxcar : sharp edges; fractional laser or RF microneedling
- Rolling : broad and tethered; often subcision
- Hypertrophic : raised; injections and laser
- Post-acne marks : redness or pigment; vascular or toning lasers
Treatment options
Methods we combine
The plan depends on your scar types, skin type and how much downtime you can accept. For darker skin, energy settings are chosen carefully to reduce the risk of post-inflammatory pigmentation.
Treatments include subcision to release tethered scars, TCA CROSS for ice-pick scars, and microneedling for texture.
Options a plan may include
- Fractional laser to remodel collagen and smooth texture
- RF microneedling for scars and enlarged pores
- Subcision for rolling scars
- TCA CROSS for narrow, deep scars
- Boosters and collagen stimulators such as Rejuran S or Juvelook
Your visit
How an acne scar program works
Acne scar treatment is usually a series of sessions several weeks apart.
- Scar mapping The dermatologist examines scars under good lighting and identifies types, depth and active acne.
- Plan A staged combination is agreed, with expected sessions and downtime.
- Treatment Each session combines methods suited to the scars being treated, under numbing.
- Review Progress is reviewed and the plan adjusted between sessions.
Real patient · before & after
An example of our non-surgical results
This case shows a combined lifting, contouring and skin program, shown as an example of our non-surgical results; it is not an acne scar treatment result.
Ask us for acne scar-specific cases at consultation, where your dermatologist can also explain how much improvement is realistic for your scar types.
Photos are shared with the patient's consent and are not retouched apart from privacy blurring. Results differ from person to person and are not guaranteed.
See more before & after photosRecovery & safety
Recovery, side effects and aftercare
Depending on the method, redness, swelling, pinpoint marks, dryness, peeling, bruising or temporary darkening can occur, typically lasting a few days to about a week. Results are gradual and scars are usually improved rather than removed completely.
Tell your dermatologist if you have taken isotretinoin recently, tend to form keloids, have cold sores, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Aftercare tips
- Use gentle cleansing and moisturiser while the skin heals
- Apply sunscreen daily to reduce pigment changes
- Avoid picking at crusts or peeling skin
- Pause strong actives such as retinoids for the advised time
- Keep treating active acne to prevent new scars
Questions we hear every day
Acne Scar Dermatologist FAQ
Can acne scars be removed completely?
Usually not completely. Most patients see gradual softening of scars and smoother texture over several sessions. How much improvement is possible depends on scar type, depth and skin type, which your dermatologist will discuss.
How many sessions will I need?
Most people need several sessions, often three or more, spaced weeks apart. Deep or mixed scars may need a longer program. Progress is reviewed and the plan adjusted along the way.
Should I treat active acne first?
Yes, generally. Active acne can cause new scars and complicate procedures, so it is usually controlled before intensive scar treatment. Some gentle scar treatments may be started alongside acne care.
Is acne scar treatment painful?
Numbing cream or local anaesthetic is used. Lasers and microneedling feel hot or prickly, and subcision may feel like pressure. Discomfort is usually manageable and settles quickly.
Can I have acne scar treatment during a short trip?
You can start, but most scar programs need several sessions over months. Downtime of a few days to a week is common, so schedule treatment early in your stay and discuss continuing care at home.
Talk to a board-certified dermatologist in Apgujeong
Send us your skin concern and photos on WhatsApp.
An English-speaking team member will reply and arrange your consultation.
Mon & Thu 10:00–19:00 · Tue & Fri 10:00–20:00 · Sat 10:00–16:00 · Closed Wed, Sun & holidays
