Acne Scars and Laser Therapy: What You Need to Know

Acne may heal, but the scars often stay for a long time, which affects both confidence and self-image. Traditional creams and home remedies often fail because they only target the skin’s surface, while scars form in the deeper layers. 

Laser acne scar treatment works best because it penetrates beneath the surface, stimulates new collagen production, and remodels damaged tissue. This allows the skin to gradually repair itself, reducing scar depth and improving texture in ways topical products simply cannot.

In this guide, you’ll explore how laser scar removal works, what results you can look forward to, the costs involved, and expert advice to guide your decision.

What Causes Acne Scars and Why Lasers Work Best

Acne scars develop when inflammation from breakouts penetrates deep into the skin, damaging both tissue and collagen fibres. As the skin attempts to repair itself, the healing process can be uneven, leading to permanent marks. The way your body produces collagen during this repair largely determines the type of scar that forms:

• Boxcar scars: Shallow with defined edges, giving a pitted look.
• Rolling scars: Broad depressions with sloping edges, often creating uneven texture.
• Ice-pick scars: Narrow and deep, appearing as small pin-like holes that are difficult to treat.

Laser therapy for acne scars is a dermatologist-approved treatment. Different laser techniques are designed for different scar types and skin tones, which makes the treatment highly personalised. 

How Laser Therapy for Acne Scars Works

Laser therapy uses concentrated light energy to target scar tissue. It works in two main ways:

• Ablative lasers remove the outer layer of damaged skin and trigger new skin to form.
• Non-ablative lasers heat the deeper layers without damaging the surface, encouraging collagen growth over time.

By either resurfacing or stimulating healing beneath the skin, lasers help smooth out scars and improve texture. The treatment is typically done over multiple sessions spaced weeks apart, so the skin has time to heal and rebuild.

Types of Lasers Used for Acne Scar Removal

The right laser depends on your scar type, skin tone, and overall skin health.

• Fractional CO2 Laser: Highly effective for deeper scars, especially rolling and boxcar scars.
• Erbium YAG Laser: Works well for surface-level scars with less downtime.
• Pico Laser: Targets pigmentation and mild scarring using ultra-short pulses.
• Non-ablative lasers: Gentle option for patients with darker skin tones or those seeking minimal downtime.
• Pulsed Dye Lasers: Reduce redness and discolouration around scars.

A dermatologist decides which option is best after examining your skin.

Quick Comparison

How to Prepare for Laser Acne Scar Treatment?

To ensure safe and effective results, dermatologists usually recommend:

• Avoiding sun exposure and tanning for 2–4 weeks.
• Stopping retinoids, glycolic acids, and harsh skincare.
• Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, vitamin E, and other blood-thinners.
• Quitting smoking 2 weeks before and after treatment.
• Taking antiviral medication if prone to cold sores

A consultation with a board-certified dermatologist is crucial to customise your plan.

Cost of Laser Acne Scar Removal in Mississauga

One of the most common questions is about cost. On average:

• Per session: CAD $100-$200. Cost may be based on the condition.
• Full treatment Cost: Depends on the number of sessions.

Factors affecting cost:

• Size and depth of the scars.
• Type of laser used.
• Experience of the dermatologist.
• Location of the clinic (metro vs. suburban).

Most insurance providers do not cover cosmetic laser treatments. However, patients often see it as an investment in both appearance and confidence.

Laser Acne Scar Treatment Results: What to Expect

When people consider laser treatment for acne scars, one of the first questions is, “Will it work for me?” The answer is yes, but results vary from person to person.

Clinical studies from the AAD show that laser therapy can reduce acne scars by 50 to 80% on average. Most patients experience after first session:

• Smoother skin texture with fewer pits and uneven areas.
• Shallower, less visible scars over time.
• More even skin tone as redness and discoloration fade.
• Smaller pores thanks to new collagen growth.

Timeline of results:

• First improvements often appear within 7 to 10 days.
• Skin continues to renew for 3 to 6 months as collagen builds.
• Results last long-term, especially with consistent skincare and sun protection.

Before-and-after photos from real patients are essential to set realistic expectations.

Before and After: What Real Results Look Like

Before-and-after photos often tell the story better than words. Most patients notice:

• Softer and smoother skin texture.
• Reduced scar depth and visibility.
• Even skin tone and smaller-looking pores.
• A visible boost in confidence.

Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery varies depending on the type of laser used.

• Redness and swelling: usually 3–10 days.
• Peeling or flaking: common as old skin sheds.
• Sun protection: mandatory to prevent pigmentation issues.
• Skincare: gentle cleansers, prescribed ointments, and rich moisturisers.
• Makeup: usually safe after 1–2 weeks, once the skin has healed.

Following your provider’s aftercare instructions is key to avoiding side effects and maximising results.