What are the different types of acne scars?

Acne scars are categorized based on their appearance and the skin damage they cause. Here’s a breakdown of the main types:

Atrophic Scars (Depressed Scars)

• Ice Pick Scars:
• Small, narrow, and deep indentations resembling punctures in the skin.
• Difficult to treat due to their depth; often require advanced procedures like laser therapy or TCA cross.
• Boxcar Scars:
• Wider depressions with well-defined edges, often oval or rectangular.
• Typically caused by inflammatory acne and respond to microneedling, fillers, or laser treatments.
• Rolling Scars:
• Broad, shallow depressions with sloping edges, giving the skin a wavy appearance.
• Caused by damage to collagen; subcision and dermal fillers are effective for treatment.

Hypertrophic Scars (Raised Scars)

• Description:
• Thick, raised scars that remain within the boundaries of the original acne lesion.
• Often found on the back, shoulders, or chest.
• Cause:
• Excess collagen production during healing.
• Treatment: Steroid injections, silicone sheets, or laser treatments can flatten these scars.

Keloid Scars

• Description:
• Raised scars that grow beyond the original acne lesion’s boundaries.
• Typically larger and more pronounced than hypertrophic scars.
• Cause:
• Overproduction of collagen; more common in individuals with darker skin tones.
• Treatment: Treated with steroid injections, cryotherapy, or surgical excision combined with other therapies.

Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)

• Description:
• Not a true scar but discoloration (red, pink, or brown marks) left after acne heals.
• Caused by increased melanin production due to inflammation.
• Treatment: Topical creams (e.g., retinoids, vitamin C), chemical peels, or laser therapy can help fade marks over time.