Acne Scar Guide
Skincare for Acne Scars what helps at home, and what doesn't
Skincare can't lift indented scars, but it can fade marks, keep acne under control and prepare your skin for treatment.
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A dermatologist-led clinic, founded by Dr Mitch Robinson, FACD, who teaches laser to dermatologists and registrars and has fellowship training in complex scarring.
Meet Dr MitchWhat Skincare Can Help With
Skincare supports acne scar treatment but doesn't replace it. It can help with:
- Brown marks and uneven tone
- Preventing new breakouts, and so new scars
- Skin quality before and after procedures
Useful Basics
A simple routine, used every day, does more than a long list of products.
- Daily broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen
- A gentle cleanser and moisturiser
- Vitamin A (retinol) products for texture and tone
- Niacinamide or azelaic acid for marks and redness
What to Avoid
Some popular approaches can make scarring or pigment worse.
- Picking or squeezing spots
- Harsh scrubs
- At-home needling devices
- Creams that promise to remove indented scars
Before and After Treatment
We may pause some products before procedures and recommend specific aftercare for each treatment. If you have darker skin, preparation skincare is especially important. See acne scars in darker skin.
Common Questions
Skincare for Acne Scars: Common Questions
Can skincare get rid of acne scars?
Not indented scars, because creams can't rebuild collagen deep in the skin or release tethered scars. Skincare does help marks fade.
Do acne scar creams work?
Not for true scars. Some ingredients help red and brown marks fade.
Is sunscreen important for acne scars?
Yes. Sun makes marks darker and slower to fade, and protects healing skin after treatment.
Should I use retinol for acne scars?
Retinol can improve texture and tone over time, but won't lift indented scars.
Are at-home microneedling devices safe?
We don't recommend them, as they can cause infection, scarring and pigment changes.
What should I use after a laser treatment?
We give you specific aftercare for each treatment, usually gentle products and strict sun protection.
Find Out What Will Work for Your Scars
Book a consultation with Dr Mitch. He'll name your scar types, explain what treatment can and can't do, and give you a written plan with the total cost before you decide.
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Clinical content overseen by Dr Mitch Robinson, FACD (AHPRA MED0001946771). Updated October 2026. General information only, not medical advice. All procedures carry risks; suitability, recovery and results vary between individuals.