Can Shallow Acne Scars Heal On Their Own? How Long Does It Take?

Everyone desires smooth and radiant skin, as it not only enhances self-confidence when smiling or interacting with others but also signifies healthy skin. However, if your face is covered with acne scars, it may negatively impact your confidence. If you are struggling with shallow acne scars, you might wonder whether they can heal on their own and how long it takes for them to improve. Dr.Vanda has the answers for you.

What Are Shallow Acne Scars?

Shallow acne scars are a type of scarring that occurs after acne has healed. They form due to the inflammation of acne, which damages the epidermis and parts of the dermis, leading to a partial depletion of collagen and elastin in the affected skin area. While the body naturally initiates a healing process to repair the damaged skin, insufficient levels of collagen and elastin prevent the skin from fully regenerating, resulting in scar tissue that pulls the skin downward, creating indentations known as acne scars. However, shallow acne scars only affect the upper skin layers, with depths ranging from 0.1 to 0.5 millimeters.

Causes of Shallow Acne Scars

When inflammatory acne occurs, the body triggers an inflammatory response that activates enzymes to break down collagen and elastin in the skin. This process creates gaps beneath the skin and damages the surrounding tissue. Since some collagen and elastin have already been destroyed, the body’s healing process is incomplete, leading to the formation of acne scars.
While applying acne treatment regularly can effectively reduce inflammation, many individuals find it difficult to resist the urge to pick or squeeze their acne to extract pus or clogged sebum. Although this may temporarily relieve discomfort, it is not a proper method of treatment. Excessive pressure from squeezing can cause skin tears and additional damage, further breaking down collagen and hindering the healing process. Additionally, if acne is squeezed with unclean hands or improperly sanitized tools, bacteria and dirt may enter the wound, increasing the likelihood of scarring.
Not everyone follows a proper skincare routine. Some individuals neglect their skin while experiencing active acne, believing it will resolve naturally without medical treatment. However, poor skincare habits—such as washing the face only once a day or using unsuitable skincare products—can exacerbate acne inflammation. If left untreated, inflammation can extend deeper into the dermis, causing more significant collagen and elastin loss. This, in turn, disrupts the healing process and increases the risk of scarring.
Although shallow acne scars often result from external factors, genetics can also play a role. If an individual has a genetic predisposition for low collagen production or slow skin regeneration, they may be more prone to developing acne scars after acne inflammation subsides. Other genetic factors, such as naturally thin skin, can make the skin more susceptible to inflammation and scarring. Additionally, genetic influences on hormone production—particularly excessive androgen levels—can lead to increased oil production, clogged pores, and a higher likelihood of acne formation.
Certain skin types are more prone to acne scarring. Oily skin, for instance, tends to have larger pores, which can trap excess oil, dead skin cells, and environmental pollutants, making it more susceptible to inflammatory acne. Meanwhile, individuals with sensitive or dry skin are also at risk, as their skin may overproduce oil to compensate for a lack of moisture. This increases the likelihood of clogged pores and deeper tissue damage when inflammation occurs, leading to scarring.

Are Shallow Acne Scars Dangerous?

Acne scars result from the body’s natural wound-healing process, which means they are not harmful to your health. However, acne scars can cause uneven skin texture, making makeup application more challenging and time-consuming. If a person has numerous acne scars, they may feel self-conscious about their appearance. More importantly, acne scars can serve as warning signs of other underlying health issues that may pose long-term risks, such as psoriasis, allergies, immune system disorders, hormonal imbalances, and chronic stress. Therefore, it is essential to monitor your overall health regularly.

Can Shallow Acne Scars Heal On Their Own?

Generally, shallow acne scars can heal naturally, but the process takes time. It typically requires at least six months for the body to generate new collagen and elastin. The recovery period depends on several factors, including age, skin condition, daily environmental exposure, and the type of acne scar treatment products used. With proper skincare, the healing time can be reduced to as little as one to three months.

What Is The Best Treatment For Acne Scars?

Currently, various acne scar treatments are available, but not all offer permanent results. For instance, dermal fillers require reinjection every 6–12 months, while laser treatments and thread-lifting procedures carry risks of infection. Some methods, such as chemical peels, may cause long-term skin health issues. Wouldn’t it be better if you could treat acne scars without discomfort, without the need for frequent treatments, and see immediate results? This is possible with EndoliftX Light Scan from Dr. Vanda Aesthetic Clinic.

EndoliftX Light Scan is an advanced laser technology that utilizes an “External Laser” to improve skin quality at a wavelength of 1470 nm. It can be precisely applied to the skin, stimulating collagen and elastin production while regulating sebaceous gland activity. The unique feature of this laser system is its specialized handpiece, designed to target both the skin and subcutaneous fat layers, effectively treating acne scars and fine lines based on individual skin conditions.

In addition to effectively addressing acne scars and wrinkles, EndoliftX Light Scan offers multiple benefits. It helps prevent acne scar formation by minimizing pore enlargement, tightening pores, reducing debris buildup, and balancing oil production—one of the primary causes of acne and scarring. Most importantly, patients will see noticeable improvements immediately after the treatment. Acne scars will gradually fade, and the skin will appear smoother. Since this treatment is non-surgical, there is no need for extensive recovery time, allowing patients to resume their daily activities immediately after the procedure.

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Why Choose EndoliftX Light Scan At Dr. Vanda Aesthetic Clinic?

At Dr. Vanda Aesthetic Clinic, we are committed to providing high-quality, safe, and effective treatments. Our clinic is equipped with cutting-edge technology to ensure optimal results for all our patients. Our team of expert doctors oversees every step of the treatment process, guaranteeing clear and safe outcomes for every individual under our care.

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