Scars come in types: rolling (wave-like), boxcar (defined edges) and icepick (narrow and deep). Flat red or brown marks left after a breakout aren't true scars; they are post-inflammatory marks, and they often fade with time and SPF.
Skin concern
Acne Scars & Texture
Acne scars form when deep breakouts damage the skin's collagen, leaving pitted (atrophic) marks or uneven texture. At Flourish TCM Clinic in Yaletown, Vancouver, Microneedling + LED is the main option, designed to prompt new collagen over a series, often combined with OxyGeneo facials.
TCM relates skin that is slow to recover to stagnation of Qi and blood in the area. Treatment encourages circulation and renewal.
Treatments that may help
What to expect
Scar improvement is gradual and partial. Most people need a series over several months. After microneedling, redness usually settles within 3 days. Active breakouts are calmed before microneedling begins.
Terms to know
Full glossaryGlossary
Collagen induction
TechnologyCollagen induction is the skin's repair response to controlled micro-injury, which prompts new collagen and elastin to form over weeks.
Glossary
Bohr effect
TechnologyThe Bohr effect is the body's natural process of releasing more oxygen to tissue where carbon dioxide is higher. OxyGeneo facials make use of it.
Related articles
Clinic Guides3 min read
By Flourish TCM ClinicAftercare After Microneedling: The First 72 HoursWhat to do (and avoid) in the first 24 hours, days 2–3 and the weeks after microneedling, as Mina explains them after your session, and when to call us.
Reviewed byMina Gharnian, skin care practitioner
Skin Care & Facials3 min readBy Flourish TCM ClinicMicroneedling + LED: What to Expect, and Why People Choose It for Acne ScarsBefore, during and after microneedling with LED: numbing, sensation, redness, aftercare and how many sessions acne scars usually need.
Reviewed byTabasom (Tabi) Mirshahi, R.Ac., R.TCM.P.Frequently asked questions
Can acne scars be removed completely?
Usually not. Treatments aim to improve their appearance, and results vary by scar type.
How many microneedling sessions for acne scars?
Most people book a series of at least 3.
Is there downtime?
After microneedling, redness usually settles within 3 days.
Are dark marks after acne the same as scars?
No. Flat marks usually fade over time; daily SPF helps.