Minimize Scars, Restore Your Skin’s Texture
Acne can be hard enough to deal with in the moment. When it leaves behind scarring, the reminder can last long after the breakouts clear. At Synergy Face + Body, our RN and physician injectors start with a VISIA skin analysis to map your scarring pattern and skin tone before recommending a treatment plan, so the approach matches your specific scars rather than a one-size-fits-all protocol. We treat acne scarring at our North Raleigh, Cary, Midtown Raleigh, and Wake Forest locations.
If you’re still experiencing active breakouts, we typically recommend getting acne under control first. Starting scar treatment during an active flare can be less effective and may worsen inflammation. Our acne treatment providers can help you get there, then transition you into a scar treatment plan once your skin has calmed down.
Types of Acne Scars We Treat
Not all acne scars are the same, and treating them the same way is why a lot of scar treatment doesn’t work as well as it should. During your VISIA consultation, we identify which of these patterns you have (most people have more than one):
Ice-pick scars — Narrow, deep, pitted scars that look like small punctures in the skin. These tend to respond best to skin resurfacing that reaches deeper into the dermis.
Boxcar scars — Wider scars with sharp, defined edges, similar to chickenpox scarring. These respond well to a combination of resurfacing and collagen remodeling.
Rolling scars — Broad, shallow depressions with a wave-like texture, caused by fibrous bands tethering the skin to the tissue underneath. These typically need treatments that target the deeper structural tissue, not just the surface.
Hypertrophic or keloid scars — Raised, thickened scar tissue, more common along the jawline, chest, and back. These need a provider evaluation before treatment, since they respond differently than pitted scarring.
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) — Flat dark spots or persistent redness left behind after a breakout heals. Technically not a scar, but the most common complaint we hear alongside real scarring, and it needs a different approach than texture-based scars.
Acne Scar Treatment Options
Sciton Laser
Synergy offers a combination of Sciton’s MicroLaserPeel® and ProFractional treatment for acne scarring. ProFractional works on the collagen-producing layers of skin to improve texture, tone, and coloring, while MicroLaserPeel refines the surface for a smoother finish. This combination is generally best suited for boxcar scarring and shallower rolling scars. Most people need multiple sessions to see full results, and your provider will map out a schedule that works for you.
Genius™ RF Microneedling
Genius RF Microneedling combines traditional microneedling with radiofrequency energy to trigger a deeper remodel of the dermis than microneedling alone. This makes it a strong option for rolling and boxcar scars, and for tightening the tethered tissue that causes rolling scars to look indented. It’s also considered safe across a wide range of skin tones, which matters for anyone also dealing with post-acne hyperpigmentation.
Corrective & Chemical Peels
For scarring that’s left behind discoloration rather than texture change, a corrective peel can even out skin tone and fade post-inflammatory dark spots without the downtime of resurfacing. This is often paired with microneedling or laser resurfacing rather than used on its own for deeper scarring.
Schedule Your Appointment
Schedule your appointment for Acne Scar Treatments in Raleigh request a VISIA skin analysis to see how we can help you achieve your goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are acne scars permanent? Some acne scars soften naturally over time, but deeper pitted scars like ice-pick, boxcar, and rolling scars typically don’t resolve without treatment. The good news is most respond well to a combination of resurfacing and collagen-stimulating treatments.
Should I treat active acne before treating my scars? Yes, in most cases. Treating scars while acne is still active can be less effective and may cause additional inflammation. We recommend getting breakouts under control first, then starting a scar treatment plan.
What’s the difference between microneedling and laser resurfacing for acne scars? Genius RF Microneedling uses radiofrequency energy to remodel deeper tissue, which works well for rolling and boxcar scars. Sciton laser resurfacing works more on the skin’s surface layers and is often a better fit for boxcar scars and overall texture and tone. Many patients benefit from a combination of both, which we’ll map out during your VISIA consultation.
How many acne scar treatment sessions will I need? This depends on your scar type, depth, and skin, which is why we start with a VISIA analysis rather than a generic package. Most patients need a series of sessions spaced several weeks apart to see full results.
Does insurance cover acne scar treatment? Acne scar treatments are considered cosmetic and typically aren’t covered by insurance. We offer patient financing options to help make treatment more manageable.