Acne is one of the most common skin conditions, and while breakouts can be frustrating, it’s often the lasting damage, acne scars, that causes the most concern for patients. At Gilpin Facial Plastics in Nashville, we specialize in treating acne scars with advanced solutions tailored to your unique skin type and scar pattern, including atrophic acne scars and hypertrophic acne scars.
What Are Acne Scars?
Acne scars are permanent textural changes or indentations that occur on the skin following severe acne lesions. They form when inflammation causes damage to collagen fibers and disrupts normal wound healing. Scars can be raised, depressed, or discolored and may affect the skin’s appearance and texture long after active acne clears.
Causes of Acne Scars
Scarring typically results from inflamed blemishes such as cysts, nodules, or pustules that damage the skin and underlying subcutaneous tissue. Picking at or squeezing blemishes increases the risk of developing scar tissue, especially in deeper infections or when the skin is slow to heal. Skin type, genetics, and the type of acne all play roles in the likelihood of developing scars.
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Signs of Acne
The signs of acne scarring vary depending on the type of acne scar, with some more likely to result in scarring than others:
- Ice pick acne scars: Deep, narrow indentations that resemble pinpricks
- Boxcar acne scars: Broad depressions with defined edges
- Rolling scars: Shallow, wave-like indentations caused by damage beneath the skin
- Hypertrophic scars and keloid scars: Raised scars from too much collagen during healing
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH): Dark spots left behind after acne lesions, more common in darker skin
Treatment for Acne Scars
At Gilpin Facial Plastics, we provide comprehensive acne scar removal options that focus on collagen induction therapy, resurfacing, and skin regeneration to treat acne scars effectively:
Laser Treatments To Prevent Acne Scars
Laser resurfacing is one of the most effective ways to reduce the appearance of acne scars by stimulating collagen production and improving skin texture. Advanced Sciton® laser treatments can address both surface-level and deep atrophic scars, including ice pick scars, boxcar scars, and rolling scars. These laser therapies work as acne treatment by helping break down skin scars tissue, promote new collagen growth, and enhance overall skin tone:
- Sciton HALO®
- Sciton ProFractional®
- Sciton MicroLaser Peel
- Sciton NanoLaser Peel
- Sciton MOXI®
Injectables & Fillers For Depressed Scars
Dermal fillers can be a highly effective option for treating acne scars that are depressed or indented, such as rolling scars and boxcar scars. These fillers work by lifting the scarred area to match the surrounding skin, instantly improving texture while also promoting collagen production in some cases. Injectable treatments can be tailored for different skin types and levels of scarring to help restore a smoother, more even complexion:
- Juvederm® Dermal Fillers
- Restylane®
- RHA® Collection
- Radiesse®
- Sculptra®
- SkinVive
Aesthetic Treatments To Correct Skin Damage
Non-invasive aesthetic treatments are ideal for improving skin tone, texture, and mild to moderate acne scarring. These techniques utilize potent ingredients and advanced technologies, such as salicylic acid and skin needling, to exfoliate dead skin, unclog sebaceous glands, and encourage the skin to heal and regenerate. Many of these treatments are suitable for all skin types, including darker skin, and can be combined for enhanced results in a comprehensive acne scar treatment plan:
- Microneedling
- Chemical Peels
- Facials
- Dermaplaning
PATIENT REVIEWS
Benefits of Professional Treatment
Professional acne scar treatment at Gilpin Facial Plastics offers long-lasting results that over-the-counter products simply can’t match. Our board-certified facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Gilpin, understands the complexities of skin healing, scar management, and skin types, ensuring your treatment is both safe and offers a host of benefits, including:
- Improved skin texture and tone
- Reduced appearance of depressed scarring
- Fewer skin lesions
- Smoother wound healing
- Boosted psychological confidence
What to Expect During Treatment
Results in
1-2 weeks
Recovery
1-2 days
Lasts
6-12 months
During your acne scar consultation, we’ll assess your skin type, the types of acne scars present, and your treatment goals. Depending on your needs, we may recommend laser therapy, dermal fillers, chemical peels, or microneedling. Some treatments, like laser resurfacing or punch excision, may require local anesthesia and minor downtime. However, most options for acnes scar are noninvasive with minimal pain, with fast acting results and limited downtime.
read moreDavid Gilpin, MD
Dr. David Gilpin is a native of Nashville, TN. After graduating from Vanderbilt University with a degree in Biomedical Engineering, Dr. Gilpin pursued his M.D. from The University of Tennessee…
Meet The DoctorBook a Consultation
If acne scarring is affecting your confidence or quality of life, now is the time to explore the most advanced options for treating acne scars. Gilpin Facial Plastics in Nashville offers the skill and precision needed for optimal results; contact us to schedule your acne scar consultation and take the first step toward smooth, radiant skin.
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Are you looking to enhance your appearance and boost your confidence? Complete this form to learn more or schedule a consultation with one of our experts at our Nashville, TN office. From facial plastic surgery to lasers & aesthetics, we offer a variety of services that help you put your best face forward.
Ask a QuestionDr. David Gilpin is Nashville’s most accomplished dual board-certified facial plastic surgeon and founder of Gilpin Facial Plastics, the city’s largest facial plastic surgery and medspa practice. With advanced fellowship training under one of the world’s leading experts in facial plastic surgery, Dr. Gilpin is renowned for delivering natural, personalized results through both surgical and non-surgical facial procedures. Featured in Nashville Lifestyles, recognized as a RealSelf Top Doctor, and a national speaker, Dr. Gilpin is trusted by A-list clients and peers alike for his unparalleled expertise and compassionate care. His leadership and reputation firmly establish him as the most qualified and sought-after facial plastic surgeon in Nashville, TN







