There are many sub-categories of acne scars, but they generally fall into three main types: rolling, boxcar, and icepick. Each type of scarring has specific best practices for treatment. Rolling-type scars may respond best to fillers like Bellafill and lasers, while icepick-type scarring may need specialized therapy like the TCA cross method first before proceeding on to other treatments. Boxcar-type scarring will also usually need a combination approach. We are fortunate to have multiple treatments to offer patients with acne scarring, as many people suffer from all three types of scarring.
Not all acne scars are the same. We offer several different procedures and will help you select the best one for the specific type of scars being treated.
Radiofrequency and laser skin resurfacing work by selectively injuring the skin to jump-start the skin’s healing process and collagen production to improve the damaged tissue. Lasers also remove some of the affected surface skin to immediately trigger your skin’s remodeling functions and reveal a new layer of skin for fast-acting results. Laser skin resurfacing can be effective for many skin conditions, but it is one of the preferred methods to improve acne scars with long-term results.
Laser resurfacing is one of the top acne scar treatments because it can improve the appearance of many types of scars, including boxcar, rolling, and ice pick scars.
Morpheus8 combines radiofrequency energy with microneedling, sometimes referred to as collagen induction therapy. Tiny needles trigger the body’s natural wound-healing process and stimulate collagen production in the deep underlying tissues to resurface healthy skin and break up scar tissue. Like laser resurfacing, Morpheus8 can be used to treat many types of acne lesions and scars.
Chemical peels work best for active acne and mild to moderate acne scars as well as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Chemical peels use various solutions with salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or TCA to strip away the outer layer of dead or damaged skin cells, revealing a new layer of healthier skin with a smoother texture and even complexion. Chemical peels can also address clogged pores to help prevent future acne breakouts.
Microneedling works best for mild acne scarring and may be a great option for patients with darker skin who are not able to tolerate more aggressive lasers. It works to stimulate collagen and is usually done in a package of treatments for the best outcomes.
The TCA Cross Method is usually implemented for icepick scarring. A high concentration of TCA is applied on a narrow device and placed directly into the icepick scar, causing collagen stimulation and contraction of the scar. This is usually performed multiple times on the same icepick scar to improve it.
Subcision is implemented when any type of acne scarring on the face is “tacked down” to the underlying structures. The area is usually injected with lidocaine to numb the area, and then a sharp needle or other instrument is inserted beneath the skin to cut the fibers that are tethering the acne scarring down to the structures beneath. This “pops” the tissue in that area up and allows for the skin to be smoother and more even.
Many suffer from acne, especially as they’re going through adolescence. Even taking the best possible care of your skin can still result in scarring from the presence of acne. Candidates for acne scar treatments at JanigaMDs are those who have visible scarring on their face or neck. Ideally, you would also not have a current acne breakout, as we would prefer your acne to be under good control before starting treatments for the scarring. Your specific treatment will depend on how deep and extensive the scarring is, along with other factors like your skin type and skin tone. Deeper acne scars are often treatable with acne scar surgery (TCA cross method and subcision), laser skin resurfacing, or a deep chemical peel, while more superficial scars can be addressed with microneedling and chemical peels.
Before your procedure, your face will be cleaned thoroughly by our specialists, and if indicated, the area of treatment will be numbed by using a topical or local anesthetic. Treatments for acne scarring typically take between 30 minutes (chemical peel) and 90 minutes (CO2 laser resurfacing), depending on the size of the targeted region and the level of intensity that you and Dr. Jennifer Janiga or her associates agree upon.
Acne scarring treatments can be done at various settings to target specific types of scar tissue in different parts of the skin. Lower settings allow for one to two days of recovery, while higher settings mean you’ll need about five to seven days to recover. Your provider can recommend the right setting for your intended results, which can depend on how severe your acne scarring is, as well as whether you have icepick, rolling, or boxcar type scars, or a combination of all.
Treatments like microneedling and chemical peels usually result in healing for 3-5 days, while deeper TCA peels or CO2 resurfacing cause more intensive skin peeling with a full week of recovery. Avoidance of strenuous activities may also be recommended for a few days, especially after more aggressive lasers like CO2 resurfacing.
Dr. Janiga or her associates will instruct you on how to best care for your skin during the healing process, which includes avoiding sun exposure for a few weeks after each treatment session. Most patients with acne scarring require a package of multiple treatments for the best results, and they can recommend a treatment plan for you that may include other skin treatments.
Dr. Jennifer Janiga is a board-certified dermatologist with comprehensive training that includes dermatology residency at the Henry Ford Health System and a fellowship focused on light therapy and lasers. Her expertise in laser therapy and cosmetic procedures allows her to treat facial acne scars with precision and confidence, helping acne patients improve skin texture while minimizing downtime. Dr. Janiga also authored Clearing Up Skin Care, a guide that reflects her commitment to helping patients understand their skin and the science behind each treatment option.
Dr. Janiga’s technical skill and dedication to patient care are evident in her professional memberships and numerous awards. She is a Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology, a member of the American Society of Dermatologic Surgery, and an elected member of the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society. Awards include recognition as Best of Reno Dermatologist, Castle Connolly Top Doctor in Dermatology, and honors from the American Registry’s America’s Most Honored Professionals. JanigaMDs has also been awarded Best of Reno Medical Spa, reflecting the expertise of our trained medical aestheticians.
JanigaMDs itself is uniquely positioned as the only practice in Northern Nevada where a board-certified dermatologist and a board-certified plastic surgeon work closely together to create cohesive plans for skin rejuvenation and overall aesthetic improvement. We are a trusted provider for acne scarring treatment because we combine deep dermatologic knowledge, advanced laser therapy options, and a compassionate approach to care. Patients can expect tailored treatment plans that integrate the latest technologies and a focus on natural-looking results, making JanigaMDs a top choice for men and women seeking effective skin rejuvenation after acne.
Ultimately, the best way to determine your ideal acne scar treatment package is through a consultation with Dr. Janiga or her associates, who can evaluate you and your skin’s needs. To set up a consultation in our Reno dermatology and cosmetic office, schedule a consultation online or call 775-364-0224.
As a patient of both Dr. Jennifer and Tim Janiga, I have the utmost praise for the care I have received. They are fantastic at what they do. The attention to detail and going ‘above and beyond’ is very much appreciated.
Amazing office, staff and doctors. During my consultation I felt very comfortable and could tell how extremely knowledgeable the providers were. All of my questions were answered and acknowledged. The treatment I received exceeded my expectations. 10/10 recommend!
As a patient of both Dr. Jennifer and Tim Janiga, I have the utmost praise for the care I have received. They are fantastic at what they do. The attention to detail and going “above and beyond” is very much appreciated.
Discover Clearing Up Skin Care by Dr. Jennifer Janiga—a no-nonsense guide to understanding your skin, choosing the right products and treatments, and building a routine that truly works for you. Pick up a copy in our office or purchase online to start building a routine that works.
JanigaMDs is the only practice in Reno where patients can consult with both a board-certified dermatologist and a board-certified plastic surgeon in one visit.
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Founded in 2010, the team at JanigaMDs has been proven to provide the utmost care for all patients. With a 4.7 rating over almost 700 reviews, JanigaMDs is the premier aesthetic practice in Northern Nevada.
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