Quick answer: Acne scars are treated by matching the method to the scar type. Subcision releases tethered rolling scars, fractional lasers resurface boxcar scars and uneven texture, and RF microneedling remodels collagen with less surface damage, which suits many Asian and darker skin tones. Most people need a combined plan over three to five sessions. Expect clear improvement, rarely complete removal.
Know your scar type first
- Rolling scars: wide, soft depressions with sloping edges, caused by bands pulling the skin down
- Boxcar scars: round or oval depressions with sharp edges
- Icepick scars: narrow, deep pits
- Raised (hypertrophic) scars: firm bumps, more common on the jaw, chest and back
- Red or brown marks: post-inflammatory colour, not true scars, which fade with different treatment
Most faces have a mix, which is why combination treatment works best.
Subcision
A needle or cannula is passed under the scar to cut the fibrous bands tethering it. The skin lifts, and the small bleed underneath stimulates new collagen. It is the key treatment for rolling scars. Expect bruising and swelling for about one week. Some clinics add a filler or skin booster afterwards to stop the bands reforming.
Fractional lasers
Ablative fractional lasers, such as fractional CO2, create tiny columns of controlled injury that resurface the skin and stimulate collagen. They work well for boxcar scars and overall texture. Downtime is about five to seven days of redness, crusting and peeling. Non-ablative fractional lasers have shorter downtime but need more sessions.
RF microneedling
Insulated microneedles deliver radiofrequency heat below the surface (for example Potenza, Secret RF or Infini). This remodels collagen while sparing most of the top layer, so downtime is usually two to four days and the risk of pigmentation is lower. It is popular in Korea for patients with darker or pigment-prone skin.
Other options
- TCA CROSS: concentrated acid placed precisely into icepick scars
- Punch techniques: small excisions for deep, isolated scars
- Skin boosters: such as Rejuran S or Juvelook to support healing
- Steroid injections: for raised scars
How a typical plan looks
A doctor might start with subcision and RF microneedling, then add fractional laser sessions four to six weeks apart. Three to five sessions is common. Improvement continues for several months after the last session as collagen matures.
Before you start
- Active acne should be controlled first
- If you have taken isotretinoin, tell the doctor; many wait several months before resurfacing
- Avoid tanning before and after treatment
- Plan downtime around your travel: fractional CO2 is not ideal right before a flight home or an event
Risks
Common effects are redness, swelling and bruising. The main risk for Asian skin is post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, which usually fades with care. Infection and worsened scarring are uncommon with proper technique and aftercare.
Price
Acne scar treatment is priced per session and per technique, and combination plans are often sold as packages. See our
price guide for current KRW ranges.
Frequently asked questions
How much improvement can I expect?
Many patients see a meaningful improvement after a full course. Deep scars rarely disappear completely.
Can I do one session on a short trip?
Yes, but plan downtime carefully. RF microneedling or subcision fit short trips better than aggressive CO2.
Does it hurt?
Numbing cream is used. RF microneedling and subcision are uncomfortable but tolerable for most people.
This article is general information and does not replace a consultation with a doctor. Last reviewed: October 2026.
