Pitted acne scars can be one of the most frustrating reminders of past breakouts. Even after acne has cleared, the uneven texture left behind can make skin appear rough, affect how makeup sits, and feel difficult to improve with skincare alone.
Unlike dark acne marks that gradually fade, pitted acne scars are caused by a loss of collagen beneath the skin. That's why improving them isn't just about treating the surface. It's about helping your skin rebuild from within.
Why Do Pitted Acne Scars Happen?
Pitted, or atrophic, acne scars develop when inflamed breakouts damage the skin's deeper layers. As the skin heals, it doesn't produce enough collagen to fully replace the lost tissue, leaving behind small depressions in the skin.
Not all acne leads to scarring, but deeper or inflamed blemishes—especially when they're picked or squeezed—are much more likely to leave lasting marks.
The three most common types of pitted acne scars are:
Ice pick scars – Deep, narrow scars that extend into the skin.
Boxcar scars – Wider depressions with more defined edges.
Rolling scars – Broad, shallow depressions that create an uneven or wavy appearance.
Most people have a combination of these scar types, which is why treatment plans are often personalized.
How to Get Rid of Pitted Acne Scars
Pitted acne scars can't simply be "filled in" overnight. Because they're caused by a loss of collagen beneath the skin, improving them means encouraging the skin to repair and rebuild itself over time.
One of the most effective ways to do this is through fractional laser resurfacing. By creating tiny, controlled micro-channels in the skin, the laser stimulates the body's natural healing process, triggering new collagen production and faster cell turnover. As the skin heals, acne scars gradually become softer, smoother, and less noticeable while overall texture becomes more refined.
The Pore-Refining Ritual uses fractional Erbium:YAG Pixel Laser technology to target acne scars, rough texture, and enlarged pores. Available in both standard and Intense options, the treatment can be personalized based on your skin's needs and the depth of your scars.
How Long Does It Take to See Improvements?
Like any collagen-stimulating treatment, results take time. Most people notice gradual improvement over multiple sessions, with the exact number depending on the type and severity of their scars, as well as their skin's natural healing response. Consistency and commitment to the recommended treatment plan is key to achieving the best possible results.
Is There Downtime?
Yes, but it's a normal part of the healing process.
Because the Pore-Refining Ritual uses an ablative fractional laser, it's expected to experience some downtime while your skin repairs itself. Immediately after treatment, your skin may appear red with tiny pixel-like dots. Over the next few days, it may feel similar to a mild sunburn before flaking or begins as new skin emerges. The recovery period is about 5 days for the Pore-Refining Ritual, while the Intense Pore-Refining Ritual may require up to 7 days.
Prevention Is Always Easier Than Correction
While treatments can significantly improve existing acne scars, preventing new ones from forming is always the better strategy.
The biggest factors that increase your risk of scarring include:
Picking or popping pimples
Leaving inflamed acne untreated
Waiting too long before seeking professional care
Repeated breakouts in the same areas
Keeping acne under control reduces ongoing inflammation, giving your skin a better chance to heal without leaving permanent marks.
For those who experience frequent breakouts, monthly no-pricking facials can help keep pores clear, reduce congestion, and support healthier skin before blemishes become severe enough to cause scarring. Combined with a consistent home skincare routine, preventive care can make a significant difference in your skin's long-term health.