Can Lasers Really Improve Acne Scars? Here’s What You Need to Know

Acne breakouts can be incredibly frustrating, and the scars left behind even more so. Fortunately, modern skin rejuvenation treatments can smooth out your complexion without any surgery or medications. Laser treatments offer a powerful, non-surgical way to improve the look and feel of acne scars.

Understanding Acne Scars

First, it’s important to recognize that not all acne scars are the same. Some are deep and narrow (ice pick scars), some are wider and boxy (boxcar scars), and others look like rolling waves beneath the skin (rolling scars). Some people have raised acne scars, called hypertrophic or keloid scars. The type of scarring you have plays a big role in choosing the right laser treatment.

How Laser Treatments Work

Laser resurfacing uses focused light energy to either remove damaged skin (ablative lasers) or stimulate collagen beneath the surface (non-ablative lasers). Both approaches can help smooth texture, fade discoloration, and promote healthy skin regeneration.

  • Ablative lasers (like CO₂ or Er:YAG) are ideal for deeper, more pronounced atrophic scars (especially boxcar and rolling scars). They work by removing the top layers of skin, allowing new, smoother skin to form in place of the previously damaged tissue.
  • Non-ablative lasers (like Fraxel, Nd:YAG, or MOXI®) are gentler and better suited for lighter scars. They create microscopic columns of heat that stimulate collagen growth without damaging the surrounding skin.

Your dermatologist can recommend which type of laser treatment is best for you based on your scar pattern, skin tone, and lifestyle.

What to Expect

Most people need a series of laser treatments, each spaced a few weeks apart. Treatments are administered in-office and can take anywhere from 15 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the treatment area. After treatment, ablative lasers can leave you with several days or more of redness, flaking, and other skin reactions, while non-ablative lasers typically leave only mild redness and have minimal downtime. With all laser treatments, sun avoidance is essential during recovery to prevent further damage and support healing.

Are Lasers Safe for All Skin Types?

Yes—with the right laser and a qualified provider. Even darker skin tones can be treated with certain lasers that minimize the risk of hyperpigmentation. It’s important to choose a board-certified dermatologist with experience in treating diverse skin types.

The Bottom Line

Laser skin resurfacing can significantly improve acne scars when done correctly by a board-certified dermatologist. If you’re ready for smooth skin again, a personalized laser treatment plan may be the answer you’ve been waiting for. 

Call Medovate Dermatology at (847) 499 – 5500 to book your appointment today.