Do all acne scars need microneedling? First, identify which type
Acne scars are not all one type. At Gangnam Choice Clinic, we first distinguish between active acne, red marks, brown marks, enlarged pores with rough texture, and true indented scars before deciding on a direction. What is called an acne scar can call for very different approaches.
Not every acne scar should be treated with microneedling. When Gangnam Choice Clinic looks at pitted, uneven skin on the cheeks, we first determine which type it actually is, because what is called an acne scar can call for very different treatment directions.
What types of acne scars should be distinguished first?
We first check which of the following categories it falls into, then discuss the treatment direction.
- Still getting red, swollen acne: treat the active inflammation first. Otherwise, before the existing scars are dealt with, new ones keep coming.
- Red acne marks: this is not the same thing as a true indented acne scar.
- Brown acne marks: this leans more toward pigmentation left after inflammation.
- Enlarged pores plus rough surface: microneedling may be one direction to consider.
- True indented acne scars: here we look further at the shape and depth of the indentation and whether there is tethering.
Why can't we go straight to microneedling?
Because the most important step in between is missing: first confirming which type it is.
Going straight to microneedling whenever there are acne scars skips this judgment. The same pitted, uneven appearance can have different underlying conditions, and the treatment direction differs accordingly. At our consultations in Gangnam, Seoul, we explain the classification clearly first, then discuss what comes next.
Information on this site is for reference only and is neither medical advice nor a guarantee of results. Outcomes vary; your plan is determined at consultation.