Conditions◇Scars

Acne Scarring

Acne scars contribute to uneven skin texture. With a careful assessment of the types of scars, combined with the wide range of devices available in our clinic, we can create smooth, glowing skin.

10Treatment options
3Scar types assessed
ReducedDowntime
Portrait of a man with atrophic acne scarring across the cheeks
As featured in
Vogue Elle Women's Health Cosmopolitan The Telegraph Evening Standard Country & Town House Sheerluxe

What acne scarring is

Damage below the surface.

Acne scarring refers to the permanent changes in skin texture and appearance caused by severe or prolonged acne. These scars form when inflamed blemishes damage the skin's underlying tissue, resulting in depressions, raised areas or discolouration.

We offer tailored treatments designed to target different types of acne scarring, including ice pick scars, boxcar scars and rolling scars. Our programme combines medical and laser treatments, and the treatment process is designed to minimise downtime thanks to our dedicated post-care programme.

Ice pick scarsBoxcar scarsRolling scarsHypertrophic scarsAtrophic scarsPost-inflammatory pigmentation

How we treat acne scarring

Ten options, chosen by scar type.

Needle-free

MiraJet

An innovative, needle-free skin rejuvenation technology from Korea designed to refine pores and improve the appearance of scars. Using powerful yet gentle supersonic jet technology, it delivers customised serums and bioactive substances deep into the skin, promoting collagen regeneration and enhancing texture.

Resurfacing

Sciton Erbium laser

A state-of-the-art resurfacing treatment, fully ablative or fractional. By precisely removing damaged skin layers, the laser stimulates natural collagen production and promotes new skin cell turnover. Effective for acne scars, surgical scars and textural irregularities, with adjustable intensity and minimal downtime.

RF microneedling

Potenza / Sylfirm X

Potenza combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy to stimulate collagen deep within the skin. Sylfirm X, with dual-wave RF technology, delivers targeted energy to improve scars, minimise pores and address laxity and pigmentation. Both are highly effective for acne scars, uneven texture and fine lines.

Skinbooster

JuveLook

An advanced injectable combining polylactic acid (PLA) with hyaluronic acid to revitalise the skin from within. It stimulates collagen production, improves elasticity and smooths imperfections over time: natural, gradual results with minimal downtime.

Regenerative

Salmon polynucleotide injections (Rejuran)

Formulated with salmon-derived polynucleotide, known for its skin-healing properties. By boosting cellular repair and regeneration it reduces the appearance of scars, minimises pores and enhances tone and texture, promoting deep hydration.

Surgical

Punch excision

A precise surgical technique used to remove deep, isolated acne scars such as ice-pick scars. By excising the scar tissue with a specialised tool and suturing the area, it creates a smooth, more even skin surface as the site heals, particularly effective for stubborn scars that do not respond to other treatments.

Release

Subcision

A minimally invasive procedure for rolling and tethered scars caused by underlying fibrous bands. Using a fine needle, the bands are carefully released, allowing the skin to lift and smooth naturally while stimulating collagen. Often combined with dermal fillers or microneedling for optimal reduction.

Chemical

TCA Cross

Chemical Reconstruction of Skin Scars: a specialised technique for deep scars, particularly ice-pick and boxcar. High-concentration trichloroacetic acid targets the scar's base, stimulating collagen production and filling in the depressed area over a series of treatments.

Volume

Dermal filler

A non-surgical option for atrophic scars such as rolling or boxcar scars. Injecting hyaluronic acid or other biocompatible substances adds volume and smooths the skin's surface, offering immediate results with added collagen stimulation over time.

Hybrid laser

Halo

An advanced hybrid fractional laser that improves overall skin quality by targeting both surface and deeper layers. It enhances tone and texture, reduces irregularities and addresses pigmentation, scars and sun damage, while promoting tissue tightening.

Results

Before and after.

1 / 7
Acne scarring before and after treatment at Dr Jinah Yoo Dermatology
Acne scarring before and after treatment at Dr Jinah Yoo Dermatology
Acne scarring before and after treatment at Dr Jinah Yoo Dermatology
Acne scarring before and after treatment at Dr Jinah Yoo Dermatology
Acne scarring before and after treatment at Dr Jinah Yoo Dermatology
Acne scarring before and after treatment at Dr Jinah Yoo Dermatology
Acne scarring before and after treatment at Dr Jinah Yoo Dermatology

Why our scar treatment is special

Three things we insist on.

Significant improvement with combination treatment

Careful assessment of the type of acne scars by our dermatologist guides the most appropriate plan. Combining radiofrequency microneedling, injectables and laser treatments delivers visible improvements, with treatment selected carefully for each individual including sensitive skin.

Wide range of devices

We use a wide range of devices through to the most advanced resurfacing lasers. This diversity allows us to address different types of acne scars, such as hypertrophic and atrophic scars, effectively.

Reduced downtime

Our post-care programme, carried out by professional therapists, is designed to reduce downtime and discomfort. After each treatment we provide instructions that support healing so you can return to your routine with minimal disruption.

“Careful assessment of the type of acne scars guides the most appropriate treatment plan. It is the assessment, not the device, that decides the outcome.”
◆ Dr Jinah Yoo · Consultant Dermatologist

Aftercare

Five instructions to follow.

After each treatment
  • Avoid washing your face immediately after the procedure if possible
  • Do not use scrub products during face washing or showering, to avoid irritating the skin
  • Apply sunscreen with SPF 30+++ or higher outside, to protect against UV rays and reduce the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
  • Avoid saunas, excessive sweating and strenuous exercise for 3–5 days
  • Refrain from consuming alcohol for 3–5 days to support the skin's healing process
Ideal for individuals who
  • Want to treat acne scars for smoother skin texture
  • Have had severe acne with rolling or ice pick scars and want optimal results through a personalised plan

Your consultant

Assessed by Dr Jinah Yoo.

Dr Jinah Yoo, consultant dermatologist

Dr Jinah Yoo

MBChB FRCP · Consultant Dermatologist · Founder

Dr Yoo is a Korean, UK-trained consultant dermatologist and the founder and medical director of Dr Jinah Yoo Dermatology, with a special interest in cosmetic dermatology.

Each patient's skin type and scar tissue is assessed to develop the most appropriate treatment plan, which may combine surgical techniques, resurfacing and injectables across a course.

  • GMC-registered consultant dermatologist
  • Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians (FRCP)
  • Ten treatment options across surgery, laser and injectables
  • Dedicated post-care programme

The clinic

45 Albemarle Street, Mayfair.

Treatment room with terracotta wall and daylight ceiling
Treatment rooms
The patient lounge at the clinic
The lounge
Dr Yoo's framed qualifications on the clinic wall
Dr Yoo's credentials

Questions

Asked before booking.

Yes, our treatment for acne scars is customised to suit different skin types, including oily skin. We use specialised laser treatments and skincare solutions to target both acne scars and excess oil, ensuring effective results while maintaining skin balance.

The number of sessions varies depending on the severity of the scarring. We assess each patient individually to create a customised treatment plan, which may involve multiple sessions for optimal results.

The best approach is through advanced methods such as laser treatments, microneedling and skin boosters. We assess the type and severity of the scars and create a personalised plan tailored to each patient. Our comprehensive approach stimulates collagen production and resurfaces the skin, ensuring smoother texture and long-lasting results.

You may experience mild discomfort, redness or swelling, which is normal and subsides within a few days. We provide detailed aftercare instructions to ensure your skin heals properly and to help minimise downtime.

Yes, our acne scarring treatments are tailored to suit various skin types, including sensitive skin. Our dermatologist assesses each patient's skin type and scar tissue to develop the most appropriate treatment plan, ensuring safe and effective results for everyone.

Next step

Smooth, glowing skin.

Careful assessment of your scar type guides the treatment plan. Suitability is discussed during the consultation depending on severity and any contraindication.

The Dr Jinah Yoo sign outside the clinic on Albemarle Street