Effectively reduce acne scars: Which high-tech treatments really help

Pimples can heal – but they often leave their mark. Millions of people worldwide struggle with acne, especially women. Even after the inflammation subsides, flawless skin doesn't always remain: Deep scars, reddish patches, or brownish discoloration remain long-lasting reminders of the skin problems. What many don't realize: With the right treatment, these marks can be significantly reduced – often by up to 75%.

Dr. Katharina Merker , a specialist in surgery, combines medical expertise with aesthetic sensitivity for natural and individually harmonious results in her private practice in Aschaffenburg. She is part of our Experts Circle . The content represents her personal perspective based on her individual expertise.

Acne is an inflammation of the sebaceous glands. If the healing process is disrupted—for example, by prolonged inflammation or suppuration—the skin produces too little or too much collagen.

1. Atrophic scars contract inward because too little collagen has been produced.
2. Hypertrophic scars are raised and are caused by excessive collagen production.

The goal of modern therapies is to stimulate the skin's self-healing process – and this is where high-tech lasers and innovative needling techniques come into play.

Erbium-YAG laser (Er:YAG)

With its wavelength of 2940 nm, it is highly absorbed by the water in the skin. This allows for precise, gentle ablation of tiny areas of skin without causing significant stress to the surrounding tissue. The fine micro-injuries stimulate collagen production – thus gradually smoothing the scars.

A clinical study shows that the fractional Er:YAG laser was significantly effective in treating atrophic acne scars, with patient satisfaction rates up to 75%

It works more intensively: Its energy vaporizes targeted skin layers and heats deeper areas of the dermis. This stimulates fibroblasts to produce new collagen—a reboot for the skin's structure.

The results are impressive: visibly smoother skin and significantly reduced scar depth. However, this method requires longer downtime and carries a higher risk of side effects.

Microneedling uses tiny needles that create microchannels in the skin. These trigger a natural repair mechanism: The skin produces new collagen and elastin, scars become flatter, and the skin's appearance becomes more even.

RF needling (MNRF) combines needles with radiofrequency energy. The heat is directed directly into the deeper layers of the skin without causing significant damage to the surface. This enhances the tightening effect and minimizes the risk of pigmentation disorders—a particular advantage for darker skin types.

The study situation is clear:

1. 80% of patients improved by 2 scar severity grades, side effects were mild ( 3 ).
2. In a prospective study, 70% rated the result as “very good to good” ( 4 ).
3. In a large analysis, the scar score was halved, and over 89% of patients were satisfied ( 5 ).
4. A direct comparison showed that MNRF is similarly effective as the CO₂ laser, but has shorter downtimes and fewer side effects ( 7 ).

After laser or needling treatments, the skin is particularly receptive—and sensitive. High sun protection (SPF 50+) is essential to prevent dark spots. Gentle, moisturizing products containing ceramides, panthenol, or hyaluronic acid soothe and strengthen the skin barrier.

Whether fractional laser or radiofrequency needling, modern dermatology offers effective tools for acne scarring. Er:YAG scores with precision and gentleness, CO₂ delivers intensive results, and MNRF combines effectiveness with short downtime. Those who combine the right procedures and consistently follow up with care can significantly improve their skin's appearance – and enjoy a new, smoother look in the mirror.