Acne Scar Treatment in Washington, DC

What Are Acne Scars?

Acne scars are textural changes that remain on the skin after acne has healed. They occur when the skin's natural healing process is disrupted, leading to either a loss of tissue (creating depressions) or an overproduction of collagen (creating raised scars).

Acne Scars vs. Dark Spots: What's the Difference?

Not every mark left behind by acne is an acne scar.

Dark spots that remain after a breakout are often a form of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). Unlike a true acne scar, PIH changes the color of the skin without creating a change in its texture.

Acne scars, on the other hand, can cause changes in the skin's texture, including depressed or raised scars.

Because the appropriate treatment depends on whether you're dealing with pigmentation, textural scarring, or both, a dermatologic evaluation can help determine the best approach.

Learn more about our approach to Hyperpigmentation and Skin of Color →

What Causes Acne Scars?

Acne scars develop when the skin's healing process is disrupted. Several factors can increase the risk of scarring:

• Severe Inflammation: Inflammatory acne, such as cysts or nodules, is more likely to cause scarring.
• Picking or Squeezing: Manipulating pimples can damage the skin and increase the risk of scarring.
• Delayed Treatment: Acne that isn't treated promptly may lead to more significant scarring.
• Genetics: A family history of scarring can increase your likelihood of developing scars.
• Skin of Color: Patients with darker skin tones are more prone to both hyperpigmentation and keloid scarring.

Early intervention and proper acne management are the best ways to minimize the risk of scarring. If you already have scars, Dr. Holmes can help you understand your treatment options.

Types of Acne Scars

Acne scars fall into several categories. Dr. Holmes evaluates your scars to determine the most effective treatment plan:

• Ice Pick Scars: Deep, narrow, pitted scars that resemble small punctures in the skin. These are typically the most difficult to treat.
• Boxcar Scars: Wide, depressed scars with sharp, defined edges. They are often similar in appearance to chickenpox scars.
• Rolling Scars: Shallow, wavy depressions that create an uneven skin surface. These scars are caused by fibrous bands pulling the skin downward.
• Hypertrophic Scars: Raised scars that stay within the boundaries of the original wound. These are caused by excess collagen production.
• Keloid Scars: Raised scars that extend beyond the original injury site. Keloids are more common in patients with skin of color and can be itchy or painful.

Acne Scar Treatment Options

Depending on your scar type and individual needs, treatment may involve a combination of approaches, such as:

• Microneedling: Creates controlled microchannels in the skin to support collagen production and improve the appearance of texture.
• Subcision: May be considered for certain depressed acne scars. Treatment is individualized based on the type and characteristics of the scar.
• Chemical Peels: May help address acne, acne-related pigmentation, and uneven skin tone and texture.
• Laser Therapy: Depending on the patient's skin and the type of scarring, laser-based treatments may be considered as part of an individualized treatment plan.
• Corticosteroid Injections: May be used to flatten raised scars and keloids.
• Silicone Sheets or Gels: May help flatten and reduce the appearance of raised scars.
• Topical Treatments: Prescription-strength retinoids and hydroquinone may help fade hyperpigmentation.

In many cases, a combination of treatments yields the best results. Dr. Holmes will work with you to develop a plan that addresses your specific concerns and goals.

Acne Scars and Skin of Color

Patients with darker skin tones face unique considerations when treating acne scars. The risk of both keloid scarring and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is higher in skin of color. Treatment must be carefully selected to avoid worsening discoloration or causing further scarring.

Dr. Holmes considers skin tone, pigmentation risk, scar type, and individual skin characteristics when developing an acne scar treatment plan. This includes:

• Careful Treatment Selection: Choosing approaches based on your individual scar type and skin characteristics.
• Pigmentation Considerations: Taking steps to minimize the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and other pigment changes.
• Individualized Treatment: Adjusting the treatment approach based on your skin's response, goals, and overall condition.

Learn more about our approach to Dermatology for Skin of Color in Washington, DC →

When Should You See a Dermatologist for Acne Scars?

You should consider scheduling a consultation with Dr. Holmes if:

• Scars are affecting your self-confidence or quality of life.
• Your scars are not improving with over-the-counter products.
• You have raised or keloid scars that are itchy, painful, or growing.
• You have dark or red spots that persist long after acne has healed.
• You want to understand your treatment options and develop a personalized plan.

Many acne scar treatments are most effective when started early. Dr. Holmes can help you understand what's possible and develop a plan tailored to your unique skin concerns.

Acne vs. Acne Scars

It's important to distinguish between active acne and acne scars. Active acne refers to current breakouts—pimples, cysts, and blackheads that are present on the skin. Acne scars are the permanent textural changes that remain after acne has healed.

At Yolanda C. Holmes, M.D., P.C., we treat both conditions. If you have active breakouts, we will address them first to prevent additional scarring. Once active acne is controlled, we can focus on improving the appearance of existing scars.

Learn more about our approach to Acne Treatment in Washington, DC →

Frequently Asked Questions About Acne Scars

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Why Choose Dr. Holmes for Acne Scar Treatment

Meet Dr. Yolanda C. Holmes

Dr. Holmes is a board-certified dermatologist with over 34 years of experience serving patients in Washington, DC. She specializes in medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology with a focus on treating patients with skin of color.

Dr. Holmes is recognized as the 2025 Best Dermatologist in Dupont Circle and has been featured in Essence Magazine. Her expertise in treating acne scars, hyperpigmentation, and other skin conditions has earned the trust of patients throughout the Washington, DC area.

Learn more about Dr. Holmes' credentials and approach to patient care: View Dr. Holmes' Full Profile →