Acne scars can be a persistent and frustrating reminder of past breakouts. At our aesthetic clinic in Singapore, we offer a range of clinically proven, doctor-recommended acne scar treatments designed to restore smoother, clearer skin.
From advanced laser therapies to injectables and subcision, each treatment plan is customised by Dr Edwin Lim to suit your unique skin type and scar severity. Whether you are dealing with rolling scars, boxcar scars, or post-inflammatory pigmentation, our goal is to provide safe, effective, and evidence-based solutions tailored to your needs.
What causes Acne Scars?
Acne scars form as a result of the skin’s natural healing response to deep or inflamed acne lesions. When the skin experiences significant inflammation—such as with cystic or nodular acne—the surrounding tissue and collagen can become damaged. This leads to an imbalance during the repair process, resulting in either a loss of tissue (atrophic scars) or excessive tissue formation (hypertrophic scars).
Contributing Factors That Increase the Risk of Scarring:
Severity and Duration of Acne
Chronic or severe forms of acne, such as cystic acne, are more likely to leave behind noticeable scarring.
Delayed or Improper Acne Treatment
Leaving active acne untreated or relying on unsuitable products can worsen inflammation and increase the risk of long-term scarring.
Picking or Squeezing Pimples
Manual trauma to inflamed acne lesions can damage deeper layers of the skin, leading to permanent textural changes.
Genetics
Individuals with a family history of acne scarring may be more predisposed to developing scars.
Skin Type and Tone
Certain skin types, especially those with higher melanin content, may be more prone to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation after acne.
Types of Acne Scars and How They Form
Acne scars develop when severe or inflamed acne lesions damage the deeper layers of the skin. As the skin heals, it may produce too much or too little collagen, resulting in textural changes and visible scarring. Understanding the type of acne scars you have is essential for selecting the most suitable treatment approach.
Common Types of Acne Scars:
1. Atrophic Scars
These are the most common type of acne scars and are caused by a loss of collagen during the healing process. They appear as depressions in the skin and are further categorised into:
- Rolling scars – broad depressions with sloping edges.
- Boxcar scars – wider, well-defined edges, often appearing on the cheeks and temples.
- Ice pick scars – narrow, deep scars that extend into the dermis.
2. Hypertrophic Scars
These scars are raised and firm, resulting from excess collagen production during wound healing. They are more common on the chest, back, and jawline.
3. Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)
Although not a true scar, PIH refers to darkened spots left behind after acne lesions heal. It is more common in individuals with medium to darker skin tones and can be addressed with targeted pigmentation treatments.
It's important to note that not all acne scars are created equal and different scars may require different treatment options. It is best to consult with a doctor who can help you determine the best course of treatment for your specific case.
Acne Scar Treatment Options in Singapore
At our clinic, we understand that acne scars are not just a cosmetic concern — they can affect your confidence and overall sense of well-being. That’s why every acne scar treatment plan we offer is carefully customised by Dr Edwin Lim, based on your scar type, skin condition, and how your skin is likely to respond to each modality.
Here’s a breakdown of the treatment options we commonly recommend:
Icepick Scars
Icepick scars are narrow and deep, often extending into the dermis. These scars tend to be more resistant to surface treatments alone.
Treatment options may include:
- Punch excision – Surgically removes the scar, allowing the skin to heal with a smoother appearance.
- Subcision – A technique that releases the fibrous bands pulling the scar down from below.
- CO2 laser resurfacing – Stimulates collagen remodelling to improve skin texture over time.
Boxcar Scars
Boxcar scars have well-defined edges and are often seen on the cheeks or temples.
Recommended options:
- Subcision – Especially useful when fibrous tissue is anchoring the scar.
- Injectables – Such as polynucleotide-based skin boosters, which help repair and rebuild collagen.
- CO2 laser – Smoothens uneven texture and supports dermal renewal.
Rolling Scars
Rolling scars appear as broad, shallow depressions with a wave-like appearance.
Our approach typically includes:
- Subcision – Helps lift the tethered skin.
- Injectables – Improve hydration, stimulate collagen, and support healing.
- CO2 laser resurfacing – Enhances overall skin smoothness and tone.
Hypertrophic Scars & Keloids
These raised scars are the result of excess collagen during wound healing.
Treatment involves:
- Corticosteroid injections – Directly into the scar to reduce its size and prevent further growth.
Learn more here about our approach to treating hypertrophic scars
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)
PIH appears as brown or dark marks left behind after inflammation. While not technically scars, many patients find them equally distressing.
Treatment options include:
- Pigmentation lasers – Target melanin to gradually lighten the discolouration.
- Topical lightening agents – Such as tranexamic acid or hydroquinone-based creams.
Read more here about our pigmentation laser treatments.
Post-Inflammatory Erythema (PIE)
PIE presents as persistent red marks following acne and is especially common in fair skin types.
We usually recommend:
- Pro Yellow Laser – Targets small vessels to reduce persistent redness.
- Topical anti-inflammatory creams – Like azelaic acid to calm the skin and speed up recovery.
Learn more here about how we manage red acne marks.
What to Expect from Treatment
Most acne scar treatments work best when done over a series of sessions, and improvements are gradual as your skin regenerates. Results will vary depending on your skin type, the severity of your scars, and your skin’s ability to produce new collagen.
During your consultation, we will assess your skin in detail and advise on the most appropriate combination of treatments — always prioritising safety, comfort, and results.
To maintain your results and prevent further scarring, we also emphasise proper skincare, sun protection, and avoiding habits like squeezing active acne.
How Acne Scar Treatments Work – Stimulating Collagen for Smoother Skin
The goal of most professional acne scar treatments is to stimulate your skin’s natural collagen production. Acne scars, particularly atrophic types like rolling or boxcar scars, form due to collagen loss during the healing process. As a result, the skin appears uneven or sunken in certain areas.
At our clinic, we focus on targeted, evidence-based treatments that:
- Release fibrous tissue that pulls the skin downward
- Trigger new collagen formation to fill and smoothen depressed scars
- Improve overall skin texture, tone, and resilience
Depending on your skin condition and scar type, we may recommend a combination of:
- Subcision – to mechanically release the scar tissue tethering the skin down
- Injectable skin-repair solutions, such as Rejuran Scar (polynucleotides), to enhance dermal healing and collagen stimulation
- Fractional CO2 laser – to resurface and remodel damaged skin from within
By tailoring each plan to your skin’s response and healing ability, we aim for visible, long-term improvements with minimal downtime.
Subcision Acne Scar Treatment in Singapore
Subcision is a trusted and effective treatment option for depressed acne scars, particularly rolling scars and certain boxcar scars. At our clinic in Singapore, subcision is personally performed by Dr Edwin Lim using precise techniques to address the underlying cause of skin depressions — fibrous bands that pull the skin downward.
What Is Subcision?
Subcision is a minor in-clinic procedure that involves using a fine needle or cannula to gently break the fibrous tissue beneath the scar. These bands are what tether the skin down, creating a sunken or uneven appearance. Once released, the skin is free to rise, and the healing process naturally stimulates new collagen production, helping to gradually lift and smooth the scar.
Benefits of Subcision for Acne Scars:
- Targets the root structural cause of tethered scars
- Encourages natural collagen regeneration
- Improves the depth and texture of rolling and boxcar scars
- Can be combined with other treatments (Rejuran S or CO2 Fractional laser resurfacing) for enhanced results
What to Expect:
- Local anaesthesia or numbing cream is used to ensure comfort during the procedure
- Mild bruising or swelling may occur and typically resolves within a few days
- Gradual improvement is expected over several weeks as collagen continues to rebuild
Subcision is often the first step in a multi-modality acne scar treatment plan, laying the groundwork for improved outcomes when followed by injectables such as Rejuran S or laser treatments. During your consultation, Dr Edwin will assess your scar type and skin quality to determine whether subcision is suitable for you.
Learn more about Subcision here
Rejuran S (Scar) – Injectable Polynucleotides for Acne Scars
Rejuran Scar is a specialised injectable treatment made with polynucleotides (PN), naturally derived DNA fragments that support skin regeneration and repair. It is particularly effective for atrophic acne scars such as rolling and boxcar scars, especially when used in conjunction with subcision or other collagen-stimulating treatments.
How Rejuran Scar Works
Polynucleotides work by:
- Activating fibroblasts to stimulate collagen and elastin production
- Enhancing skin healing at the dermal level
- Improving skin firmness, hydration, and texture over time
When injected directly into areas of scarring, Rejuran Scar helps rebuild the skin structure from within, making scars appear less deep and the skin more even and resilient.
Suitable for:
- Rolling and boxcar scars requiring deep dermal repair
- Areas where the skin has been previously tethered or thinned
- Patients seeking collagen-boosting solutions with regenerative benefits
What to Expect:
- The treatment is performed using fine needles to manually deliver Rejuran Scar into the targeted areas
- Small bumps may appear at the injection sites and typically take 3 to 5 days to subside
- Best results are seen after a series of sessions, with continued improvement as collagen gradually rebuilds
Dr Edwin Lim will evaluate your skin during consultation to determine whether Rejuran Scar is appropriate for your specific acne scar type and integrate it into a personalised treatment plan for optimal results.
Learn more about Rejuran Scar here
Why We Often Combine Subcision with Rejuran Scar
At our clinic, Subcision and Rejuran Scar are frequently performed together as part of a comprehensive acne scar treatment strategy. This combination is particularly effective for treating tethered atrophic scars, such as rolling and boxcar scars.
- Subcision mechanically releases the fibrous bands pulling the skin downward, creating space for the skin to lift and remodel.
- Rejuran Scar, injected immediately after, enhances the healing process by stimulating collagen production, improving skin structure, and accelerating recovery.
By addressing both the physical tethering of scars and the biological repair mechanisms, this combined approach delivers faster, longer-lasting improvements with better skin texture, elasticity, and overall scar reduction.
Dr Edwin will customise the depth, injection points, and treatment timing based on your skin condition to ensure optimal synergy between both treatments.
CO2 Fractional Laser Acne Scar Removal Treatment
Fractional CO2 laser is a widely used and well-established treatment for improving the appearance of acne scars. It works by delivering precise beams of laser energy into the skin, creating microscopic channels that stimulate collagen remodelling and promote gradual skin renewal.
At our clinic in Singapore, fractional CO2 laser is often recommended for atrophic acne scars such as rolling scars, boxcar scars, and superficial icepick scars. It is frequently used in combination with other treatments to enhance skin texture and overall results.
How Fractional CO2 Laser Works
The laser creates controlled thermal zones within the skin, triggering a healing response that:
- Breaks down scar tissue and encourages skin regeneration
- Stimulates the production of new collagen and elastin
- Improves skin texture, tone, and firmness over time
Benefits of Fractional CO2 Laser for Acne Scars:
- Smoothens uneven skin caused by shallow scars and surface irregularities
- Helps reduce discolouration and pigmentation associated with previous acne
- Adjustable depth and intensity to match your specific skin needs
What to Expect:
- A layer of numbing cream is applied to keep the treatment comfortable
- Redness and peeling are common for a few days post-treatment
- Most patients resume normal activities within 3 to 7 days, depending on the intensity of the session
- Improvements appear gradually over the following weeks as collagen continues to rebuild
Fractional CO2 laser can be a valuable part of your acne scar treatment plan, particularly when combined with subcision and collagen-stimulating injectables. Dr Edwin Lim will assess your skin and determine whether laser resurfacing is a suitable step based on your individual scar pattern and skin recovery profile.
Learn more about CO2 Fractional Laser for Acne Scar Removal here
Combination Acne Scar Treatments – A Personalised Approach
No single treatment works for all types of acne scars. That’s why at our clinic, we focus on combination treatment strategies tailored to your specific scar type, skin condition, and healing response. By combining techniques that work at different skin depths, we can achieve more visible, longer-lasting results.
Why Combine Acne Scar Treatments?
Acne scars often vary in depth and structure — some are tethered by fibrous bands, while others are more superficial or associated with discolouration. Combination therapy allows us to:
- Target multiple layers of the skin simultaneously
- Address both structural and surface-level issues
- Maximise collagen stimulation and skin remodelling
- Minimise the need for overly aggressive single treatments
Common Treatment Combinations:
- Subcision + Rejuran Scar: A highly effective pairing where subcision releases deep scar bands, and Rejuran Scar boosts dermal repair and collagen formation at the injection sites.
- Subcision + CO2 Laser: Subcision prepares the skin by lifting tethered scars, while CO2 laser smoothens the surface and encourages tissue regeneration.
- Rejuran Scar + CO2 Laser: For patients with thinner skin or residual textural irregularities, this pairing supports both collagen stimulation and surface refinement.
Each combination is carefully selected by Dr Edwin Lim after a detailed skin consultation, taking into account your scar pattern, skin thickness, downtime tolerance, and aesthetic goals.
By layering treatments in the right sequence and spacing them for optimal healing, we aim to deliver results that are both natural-looking and evidence based.
Frequently Asked Questions About Acne Scar Treatment in Singapore
Q1: What is the best treatment for acne scars?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer. The most suitable treatment depends on your scar type, skin condition, and individual response. At our clinic, we commonly use a combination of subcision, Rejuran Scar, and fractional CO2 laser to target different layers of the skin for optimal results.
Q2: How many sessions will I need to see improvement?
Most patients require a series of treatments spaced a few weeks apart. The exact number depends on the severity of the scars and your skin’s ability to regenerate collagen. Dr Edwin will assess your skin and recommend a customised plan during consultation.
Q3: Is there downtime after treatment?
Yes, some downtime is expected depending on the procedure. Subcision may result in mild swelling or bruising for a few days. Rejuran Scar can cause small injection bumps that typically subside in 3 to 5 days. CO2 laser may involve 3 to 7 days of redness and skin peeling. You’ll receive detailed aftercare instructions to support healing.
Q4: Can acne scars be permanently removed?
While complete scar removal is not always possible, significant long-term improvement is achievable with a well-planned treatment strategy. The goal is to improve skin texture, reduce visible depressions, and restore overall skin smoothness.
Q5: Are acne scar treatments painful?
Discomfort is generally minimal. Numbing cream or local anaesthesia is applied before procedures like subcision and CO2 laser. Most patients tolerate treatments well with only mild, temporary discomfort during recovery.
Q6: When will I see results?
Results develop gradually as collagen remodels over time. Some patients begin to see improvement within a few weeks, with continued progress over 2 to 6 months. Multiple sessions may be needed for best results.
Q7: Can I combine acne scar treatments with other aesthetic procedures?
Yes. Many patients choose to combine acne scar treatments with skinboosters, medical facials or pigmentation lasers for more comprehensive skin rejuvenation. We will advise you on safe and effective combinations based on your goals.
How to Find the Best Acne Scar Treatment Clinic in Singapore
Choosing the right clinic for acne scar treatment is essential to achieving safe, effective, and natural-looking results. With so many options available in Singapore, it’s important to consider a few key factors when selecting a provider.
What to Look for in a Trusted Acne Scar Clinic:
- Doctor-Led Treatments
Ensure that your treatments are performed or supervised by a qualified aesthetic doctor. Acne scar procedures such as subcision and injectable polynucleotides require precision, medical expertise, and an understanding of facial anatomy.
- Personalised Treatment Plans
No two scars are the same. The best results come from a tailored approach that addresses your specific scar type, skin condition, and treatment goals.
- Range of Treatment Options
A good clinic should offer a comprehensive menu of evidence-based treatments such as subcision, Rejuran Scar, and fractional CO2 laser — allowing for multi-layered, combination strategies.
- Before-and-After Photos & Transparent Advice
Look for clinics that provide clear explanations, realistic expectations, and showcase genuine patient results to help you make an informed decision.
At our clinic, every acne scar treatment is designed and performed with a focus on safety, collagen stimulation, and long-term skin improvement. Our doctors will personally oversees each treatment plan to ensure optimal outcomes backed by medical science and clinical experience.
Ready to Treat Your Acne Scars?
Book a consultation with Dr Edwin Lim to get a personalised acne scar treatment plan tailored to your skin type and scar concerns. Whether you’re dealing with rolling scars, boxcar scars, or post-acne pigmentation, we offer evidence-based, doctor-led solutions for smoother, clearer skin.
