Is Acne Scarring Permanent? Here’s What You Need to Know
Acne scarring, by its very name, suggests something lifelong. We tend to associate scars with poorly healed wounds, uneven skin texture, discolouration, and lasting reminders of past trauma. It’s frustrating to feel like you’ve finally gained control over your acne, only to be left with the visible aftermath. But here’s the good news: acne scars don’t have to be permanent.
With modern skin rejuvenation techniques available at Omniya Clinic in Knightsbridge, many types of scarring can be softened, improved, and in some cases, almost completely removed. Let’s explore what causes acne scarring and what treatments can help.
What Causes Acne Scarring?
Acne occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil, bacteria and dead skin cells. When the breakout causes inflammation, particularly with cystic acne - the skin tries to heal itself. If the healing response is overactive or uneven, it results in scar tissue. These scars can be:
- Atrophic scars: Depressions in the skin caused by a loss of tissue. This includes ice pick, boxcar, and rolling scars.
- Hypertrophic or keloid scars: Raised areas caused by excess collagen during the healing process.
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation: Dark marks left behind after inflammation.
Scarring can occur even if you don’t pick or squeeze your spots. But picking increases the risk significantly. When you pop a spot, you can damage surrounding tissue and introduce bacteria, forcing your skin into panic mode. The result is rushed healing, uneven collagen production, and ultimately, scarring.
Are Acne Scars Really Permanent?
Not always. While some deep scars can be more resistant to treatment, many can be dramatically improved, even completely smoothed, with the right approach. Thanks to advances in skin science, in-clinic treatments now allow us to remodel the skin from within rather than simply masking the problem.
The key lies in stimulating collagen and encouraging healthy skin turnover. At Omniya Clinic, we do this in a controlled, targeted way, without triggering further inflammation.
What Treatments Work for Acne Scars?
1. Microneedling
Microneedling is one of the most effective ways to treat acne scars. It uses fine needles to create micro-channels in the skin, prompting your body to produce fresh collagen and elastin. This natural regeneration helps fill in and smooth out depressed scars over time.
At Omniya, we offer advanced variations including:
- Dermapen with Uber Pro Peel - a dual treatment combining needling with a skin-resurfacing peel
- SkinPen Precision - the only FDA-cleared microneedling device in the UK
2. PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma)
PRP, sometimes called the “vampire facial,” uses your own blood plasma to stimulate repair and rejuvenation. It’s often combined with microneedling for deeper scar reduction. Learn more about the PRP treatment process.
3. Chemical Peels
In-clinic chemical peels help resurface the skin by removing dead and damaged cells. They’re great for post-inflammatory pigmentation and mild textural scarring. Our expert team will tailor the peel strength to suit your skin’s sensitivity and goals.
4. Polynucleotide Treatments
Polynucleotides are an emerging class of regenerative injectables that help repair damaged tissue, including scars. They boost fibroblast activity and encourage deep tissue renewal, making them ideal for acne scar repair when combined with other therapies.
How Long Does It Take to See Results?
This depends on the type and severity of your scars. Some people notice a visible improvement after just one session, particularly with microneedling and PRP. However, for deeper or older scars, a course of treatments is typically recommended, often spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart.
Your practitioner will create a bespoke plan based on your skin’s needs, health history, and downtime availability. Remember, collagen production takes time, so optimal results often appear 2 to 3 months after your final session.
Is There Any Downtime?
Most scar treatments are minimally invasive with little to no downtime. Microneedling and PRP may cause redness and sensitivity for 24 to 48 hours, but you can usually resume normal activities quickly. We’ll provide full pre- and post-care instructions to support healing.
Does Acne Need to Be Fully Gone First?
Yes. Active breakouts should be fully under control before you begin scar treatment. Treating scarring while acne is still active can irritate the skin and worsen inflammation. If you’re still struggling with breakouts, our acne specialists can help you manage the condition first with targeted skincare, prescription options, and hormone therapy if needed.
Real Results, Real Confidence
Acne scars can chip away at your self-esteem, especially when they linger long after the acne is gone. But they don’t have to define your skin story. At Omniya Clinic, we treat the individual, not just the condition. Our approach combines science-backed treatments with a compassionate, tailored plan designed around your lifestyle and goals.
Take the first step toward clearer, smoother skin today. Book a free consultation or call 020 7584 4777 to speak with one of our experts. Acne scarring doesn’t have to be permanent, and your next chapter can start now.
