How to Treat Acne Scars for Men: Fading Scars and Restoring Skin

Acne scars are the aftermath of breakouts — visible reminders long after the acne itself has cleared. For many men, acne scars are more distressing than the acne was, because while acne is temporary, scars feel permanent. The good news is that they are not. Modern skincare and dermatological treatments can significantly improve and in some cases nearly eliminate acne scars. The key is understanding what type of scars you have and matching the right treatment to each type.

This guide covers the different types of acne scars, home treatments that work, professional procedures that produce dramatic results, and a complete routine for fading scars over time. If you are still dealing with active acne, start with our acne treatment guide — clearing active acne is the first priority before treating scars.

Understanding Acne Scars: The Three Types

Not all "acne scars" are the same. The term is used loosely, but there are distinct categories that require different treatments. Identifying your scar type is the first step to treating it effectively.

Type 1: Atrophic Scars (Depressed)

These are the most common type of acne scars. They appear as depressions or indentations in the skin, caused by tissue loss during the inflammatory acne process. There are three subtypes:

• Ice pick scars: Deep, narrow, v-shaped indentations that look like large open pores or tiny holes. They are the hardest to treat because they extend deep into the dermis. They require professional treatments like TCA cross or punch excision.
• Boxcar scars: Broad, rectangular depressions with sharply defined edges. They look like chicken pox scars. They respond well to microneedling, chemical peels, and laser resurfacing.
• Rolling scars: Wide depressions with sloped edges that create a wave-like appearance. They are caused by fibrous tethering bands pulling the skin down. They respond best to microneedling and subcision (breaking the tethering bands).

Type 2: Hypertrophic Scars (Raised)

These are raised, firm scars that develop when the skin produces too much collagen during healing. They are more common on the chest, back, and shoulders than on the face. Treatment involves corticosteroid injections to flatten them, silicone sheets, and pressure therapy.

Type 3: Hyperpigmentation (Color Changes)

These are not true scars — they are color changes in the skin with no textural change. They are the easiest to treat:

• Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH): Dark brown or black marks caused by excess melanin production during healing. More common in darker skin types. Fades with exfoliants, tyrosinase inhibitors, and sunscreen.
• Post-inflammatory erythema (PIE): Red or pink marks caused by dilated blood vessels near the surface. More common in lighter skin types. Fades with time, niacinamide, and vascular lasers.

Before starting scar treatment, examine your skin in good lighting. If the marks are flat (no indentation or raised texture), you are dealing with hyperpigmentation, which is much easier to treat. If there is textural change, you are dealing with atrophic or hypertrophic scars, which require collagen-stimulating or collagen-reducing treatments.

Home Treatments for Acne Scars

Home treatments are most effective for hyperpigmentation and mild atrophic scars. They require consistency — daily application for 3 to 12 months — but they produce real results without the cost and downtime of professional procedures.

1. Chemical Exfoliants

Chemical exfoliants are the foundation of any home scar treatment routine. They work by dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells, accelerating cell turnover, and fading hyperpigmentation. Over time, they also stimulate mild collagen production that can improve shallow atrophic scars.

• Glycolic acid (AHA): The most researched chemical exfoliant. It fades dark marks, improves texture, and stimulates collagen. Start with a 5 to 7% glycolic acid toner or serum used 2 to 3 times per week, then increase to nightly as tolerated. See our glycolic acid guide.
• Salicylic acid (BHA): Oil-soluble, so it penetrates pores. Best for hyperpigmentation from acne and for preventing new breakouts. Use a 2% salicylic acid serum or toner 2 to 3 times per week. See our salicylic acid guide.
• Lactic acid (AHA): Gentler than glycolic acid. Good for sensitive skin. Also a humectant, so it hydrates while exfoliating. Use 5 to 10% lactic acid 2 to 3 times per week.
• Mandelic acid (AHA): The gentlest AHA. Ideal for darker skin types where stronger acids may cause PIH. Use 5 to 10% mandelic acid 2 to 3 times per week.

Do not use multiple acids in the same application. Rotate them on different nights, or choose one acid and use it consistently. Over-exfoliation damages the skin barrier and worsens hyperpigmentation.

2. Niacinamide

Niacinamide (vitamin B3) is one of the most versatile ingredients for acne scar treatment. It reduces hyperpigmentation by inhibiting melanin transfer, reduces redness by strengthening the skin barrier, and regulates sebum production to prevent new breakouts. Use a 5 to 10% niacinamide serum morning and night. It is gentle enough to use daily and combines well with all other treatments. See our niacinamide guide.

3. Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a tyrosinase inhibitor — it blocks the enzyme that produces melanin, fading dark marks over time. It also stimulates collagen production, which can improve shallow atrophic scars. Use a 10 to 20% L-ascorbic acid serum in the morning under sunscreen. Vitamin C and sunscreen together are the most effective combination for fading hyperpigmentation. See our vitamin C guide.

4. At-Home Microneedling (Dermarolling)

Dermarolling is the most effective home treatment for atrophic scars. It creates micro-injuries in the skin that trigger collagen production, gradually filling in depressed scars. For home use, use a 0.5mm to 1.0mm dermaroller once every 2 to 4 weeks on the affected areas.

Protocol:

1. Disinfect the dermaroller with 70% isopropyl alcohol for 5 to 10 minutes before and after each use.
2. Cleanse your face thoroughly.
3. Roll in one direction (horizontally) 4 to 5 times over each scarred area, then switch to vertical rolls, then diagonal rolls.
4. Apply pressure enough to cause mild redness but not bleeding. At 0.5mm, you should feel slight discomfort but not pain.
5. Apply a soothing serum (hyaluronic acid or niacinamide) immediately after.
6. Do not apply active ingredients (acids, retinoids, vitamin C) for 48 hours after dermarolling.
7. Use sunscreen daily — the skin is more sensitive to UV damage after microneedling.

Safety: Do not use dermarollers deeper than 1.0mm at home. Deeper treatments should be performed by a professional. Do not dermaroll over active acne — it spreads bacteria and worsens scarring. See our dermarolling guide for a complete protocol.

5. Sunscreen: The Non-Negotiable

Sunscreen is the most important treatment for acne scars — and the most overlooked. UV exposure darkens hyperpigmentation, slows collagen production, and extends the time it takes scars to heal. Without daily sunscreen, every other treatment on this list works slower or not at all.

Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every morning, rain or shine, indoors or outdoors. Reapply every 2 hours during direct sun exposure. See our sunscreen guide for product recommendations.

Professional Treatments for Acne Scars

Professional treatments produce faster and more dramatic results than home treatments. They are necessary for deep atrophic scars (ice pick, deep boxcar) that do not respond to home care. Most require multiple sessions spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart.

1. Professional Microneedling

Professional microneedling uses medical-grade devices (Dermapen, SkinPen) that penetrate 1.5mm to 2.5mm deep — significantly deeper than home dermarollers. This depth reaches the dermis where collagen production needs to be stimulated for atrophic scars.

• Best for: Rolling scars, boxcar scars, overall texture improvement
• Protocol: 4 to 6 sessions, 4 to 6 weeks apart
• Results: 40 to 60% improvement after a full course
• Downtime: 1 to 3 days of redness per session
• Cost: $200 to $700 per session (varies by location)

Many clinics combine microneedling with radiofrequency (RF microneedling) for enhanced collagen stimulation. RF microneedling delivers heat energy into the dermis through the needles, producing tighter, more consistent results.

2. Chemical Peels

Professional chemical peels use higher concentrations of acids than home products. They remove the top layers of skin, revealing smoother skin underneath and stimulating collagen production.

• Medium peels (TCA 15 to 35%): Improve moderate atrophic scars and hyperpigmentation. 2 to 4 sessions, 4 to 6 weeks apart. 5 to 7 days downtime.
• Deep peels (TCA cross): Used specifically for ice pick scars. A high-concentration TCA is applied to each individual scar with a toothpick, causing a controlled chemical burn that stimulates collagen to fill the scar. Multiple sessions needed.
• Glycolic acid peels (20 to 70%): Good for hyperpigmentation and surface texture. 4 to 6 sessions, 2 to 4 weeks apart. Minimal downtime.

Caution for darker skin types: Chemical peels carry a risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in melanin-rich skin. Always choose a dermatologist experienced with your skin type and request test spots before full treatment.

3. Laser Resurfacing

Laser resurfacing is the most effective professional treatment for acne scars. It removes the top layers of skin and heats the dermis, stimulating significant collagen production.

• Fractional CO2 laser: The gold standard for atrophic scars. Ablative (removes skin) and deeply stimulating. 1 to 3 sessions, 6 to 8 weeks apart. 7 to 14 days downtime. 50 to 80% improvement. Cost: $1,500 to $3,000 per session.
• Erbium YAG laser: Less aggressive than CO2, shorter downtime (3 to 7 days), good for moderate scars. 2 to 4 sessions. Cost: $800 to $2,000 per session.
• Non-ablative fractional lasers (Fraxel, Halo): Minimal downtime (1 to 2 days), less dramatic results per session. 4 to 6 sessions needed. Good for maintenance and mild to moderate scars. Cost: $500 to $1,500 per session.
• Pico lasers: Use picosecond pulses to create acoustic waves (LIOB effect) that stimulate collagen without breaking the skin surface. Minimal downtime. Good for darker skin types. 4 to 6 sessions.

4. Subcision

Subcision is specifically for rolling scars. A needle is inserted under the scar to sever the fibrous bands pulling the skin downward, allowing the skin to rise. Often combined with a filler injection to keep the skin elevated. 1 to 3 sessions, 4 to 6 weeks apart.

5. Dermal Fillers

Hyaluronic acid fillers (Juvederm, Restylane) can be injected directly into atrophic scars to lift them to skin level. Results are immediate but temporary (6 to 18 months). Best used in combination with subcision or microneedling for long-term collagen building.

6. Punch Excision and Elevation

For deep ice pick scars that do not respond to other treatments, a dermatologist can surgically remove the scar with a small punch tool and either close the wound or elevate the base to skin level. This is a minor surgical procedure with a 5 to 7 day recovery. The resulting scar is typically much less visible than the original ice pick scar.

LED Light Therapy for Acne Scars

LED light therapy is a gentle, non-invasive treatment that complements other scar treatments. It uses specific wavelengths of light to stimulate cellular processes in the skin.

• Red light (630 to 660nm): Penetrates to the dermis, stimulating fibroblasts to produce collagen. Improves atrophic scars over time with consistent use. Also reduces inflammation and redness.
• Near-infrared light (810 to 830nm): Penetrates deeper than red light. Enhances collagen production and accelerates healing after professional treatments.
• Blue light (415nm): Kills Cutibacterium acnes, the bacteria that causes acne. Prevents new breakouts that would create new scars.

LED therapy is available as in-office treatments, at-home LED masks, and handheld devices. It is most effective as a complementary treatment — use it alongside chemical exfoliants, microneedling, or after professional procedures to accelerate healing. For a complete guide, see our red light therapy guide and our LED face mask guide.

Building a Complete Acne Scar Routine

For Hyperpigmentation (Dark/Red Marks)

Morning:

1. Cleanse with a gentle cleanser
2. Vitamin C serum (10 to 20%)
3. Niacinamide serum (5 to 10%)
4. Moisturizer
5. Sunscreen SPF 30+

Evening:

1. Cleanse
2. Glycolic acid or salicylic acid (2 to 3 nights per week)
3. Niacinamide serum (on non-acid nights)
4. Retinol or tretinoin (on non-acid nights — see our retinol guide or tretinoin guide)
5. Moisturizer

With this routine, hyperpigmentation typically fades by 50 to 80% in 3 to 6 months.

For Atrophic Scars (Depressed Scars)

Daily:

1. Morning: Cleanser, vitamin C, moisturizer, sunscreen
2. Evening: Cleanser, retinol/tretinoin, moisturizer

Weekly:

• 2 to 3 nights per week: Glycolic acid or salicylic acid (replace retinoid on these nights)
• Once every 2 to 4 weeks: At-home dermarolling (0.5mm to 1.0mm)
• Daily or every other day: LED light therapy (if available)

Professional:

• 4 to 6 sessions of professional microneedling or laser resurfacing
• Subcision for rolling scars
• TCA cross for ice pick scars

With this combination, atrophic scars typically improve by 40 to 70% over 6 to 12 months.

What to Avoid

• Scratching or picking at scabs and healing skin: This is the primary cause of scarring in the first place. Let acne heal naturally without intervention.
• Over-exfoliating: Using acids daily, combining multiple acids, or using physical scrubs damages the skin barrier and worsens hyperpigmentation. Give your skin time to recover between treatments.
• Skipping sunscreen: UV exposure darkens hyperpigmentation and slows collagen production. Without sunscreen, your scar treatments are fighting an uphill battle.
• Expecting instant results: Scar treatment takes months, not days. Be patient and consistent. Evaluating results before 3 months is premature.
• Treating scars while acne is active: Active acne creates new scars faster than you can treat old ones. Clear active acne first, then focus on scars.
• DIY treatments: Lemon juice, baking soda, and other home remedies found online are too harsh and can cause chemical burns and worse hyperpigmentation. Stick to evidence-based ingredients.

Quick Reference Checklist

1. Identify your scar type: Hyperpigmentation (flat dark/red marks), atrophic (depressed), or hypertrophic (raised).
2. Clear active acne first: No point treating scars while new ones form.
3. Sunscreen daily: SPF 30+, every morning, non-negotiable.
4. Chemical exfoliants: Glycolic or salicylic acid 2 to 3 nights per week.
5. Niacinamide: 5 to 10% serum, morning and night.
6. Vitamin C: 10 to 20% serum, mornings.
7. Retinol/tretinoin: On non-acid nights, to stimulate collagen.
8. Dermarolling: 0.5mm to 1.0mm, every 2 to 4 weeks for atrophic scars.
9. Professional treatments: Microneedling, laser, or TCA cross for deep scars.
10. Patience: 3 to 12 months for visible results. Consistency beats intensity.

The Bottom Line

Acne scars are treatable. Hyperpigmentation fades with consistent use of exfoliants, niacinamide, vitamin C, and sunscreen over 3 to 6 months. Atrophic scars improve significantly with microneedling, retinoids, and professional treatments over 6 to 12 months. The key is patience, consistency, and matching the right treatment to your specific scar type. Start with the home routine, give it 3 months, and consider professional treatments if results are insufficient.

Track your skincare progress and monitor your scar improvement over time with LuxMax — Last ned LuxMax gratis to get started.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Professional scar treatments should be performed by a licensed dermatologist. Individual results vary depending on scar type, skin type, and treatment consistency.

Last updated: June 2026

Last ned LuxMax gratis