Those acne scars have been there for years. Maybe decades. You’ve tried creams, oils, serums, vitamin E, everything the internet promised would work. Nothing made a real difference.
You’re tired of seeing those pitted marks, uneven texture, and shadows on your face every time you look in the mirror. You want smooth skin. You want to stop thinking about your scars every single day.
Acne scar treatment at Manhattan Laser Spa in Hollywood, FL actually works. We use medical-grade lasers, microneedling, and combination therapies that rebuild your skin from the inside out. Not cover-ups. Real improvement that people notice.
Here’s what most people don’t understand about acne scars. They’re not just surface marks. They’re structural damage in your skin’s deeper layers.
When severe acne damages the dermis (the skin layer below the surface), your body tries to repair it. Sometimes it makes too much collagen, creating raised scars. More often, it makes too little collagen, leaving depressed areas. That’s the pitted look most people hate.
Those depressions are permanent unless you actively stimulate new collagen growth in those specific areas. No cream can do that. Topical products only reach the surface. Your scars live deeper.
That’s why you need treatments that actually trigger collagen remodeling. Controlled injury to scar tissue forces your body to rebuild properly. This is the only way to fill in depressed scars and smooth texture.
Not all acne scars are the same. Treatment depends on what type you have.
Ice Pick Scars: Deep, narrow scars that look like tiny holes in your skin. These are the toughest to treat because they’re so deep and narrow. They need very focused treatments like TCA Cross or punch excision combined with laser resurfacing.
Rolling Scars: Wide, shallow depressions that create a wave-like texture. These respond well to subcision (releasing the tethered tissue underneath) combined with microneedling or laser treatments. You’ll see significant improvement with the right approach.
Boxcar Scars: Wide, U-shaped scars with defined edges. These vary in depth. Shallow ones respond great to laser resurfacing and microneedling. Deeper boxcar scars might need a combination approach with subcision or filler plus laser treatments.
Most people have a mix of all three types. That’s why customized treatment plans work better than one-size-fits-all approaches. During your consultation at our Hollywood location, we’ll map out exactly which scar types you have and create a plan that addresses each one.
Fractional lasers are the gold standard for acne scar improvement. They create thousands of microscopic treatment zones in your skin, triggering intensive collagen production exactly where you need it.
Fractional CO2 Laser is our most powerful option for significant scarring. The laser vaporizes tiny columns of skin tissue while leaving surrounding areas intact. Your body repairs these microscopic wounds by producing fresh collagen. Over months, this new collagen fills in depressed areas and smooths texture dramatically.
The downtime is real. You’ll be red and peeling for about a week. But results are impressive. Most people see 40-60% improvement in scar appearance after a series of treatments.
Fractional Erbium Laser is gentler with less downtime (3-5 days of redness). It works well for mild to moderate scarring or if you can’t handle a full week of recovery. Results are more subtle, so you might need more sessions.
We customize laser settings based on your scar depth, skin type, and how much downtime you can manage. Living in Hollywood means you probably want to look decent for work and social life. We balance results with realistic recovery planning.
Microneedling uses tiny needles to create controlled micro-injuries in your skin. Your body responds by producing new collagen and elastin. Over several sessions, this progressively improves texture and fills in shallow to moderate acne scars.
Traditional Microneedling with devices like Dermapen works well for general texture improvement and shallow scarring. We typically recommend 4-6 sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart. Downtime is minimal. You’re red for 24-48 hours, then back to normal.
RF Microneedling (Radiofrequency) combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy for deeper collagen stimulation. The heat from RF reaches further into your dermis, making it more effective for moderate to deep scars. You’ll see better results than standard microneedling, with only slightly more downtime.
PRP Microneedling adds platelet-rich plasma (from your own blood) to enhance healing and collagen production. The growth factors in PRP accelerate results. This combination is particularly good for stubborn scars that haven’t responded well to other treatments.
Microneedling doesn’t work overnight. You’ll see gradual improvement over 3-6 months as your skin builds new collagen. The changes are progressive but very real.
Chemical peels work better for surface texture issues and shallow scarring rather than deep pitted scars. We use medical-grade acid solutions to remove damaged skin layers and stimulate collagen production.
TCA Cross is a specialized technique for ice pick scars specifically. We apply concentrated TCA (trichloroacetic acid) directly into each deep scar using a toothpick or tiny applicator. The acid causes the scar to crust and eventually fill in from the bottom up. It’s tedious work treating each scar individually, but it’s one of the few methods that actually helps ice pick scars.
Medium-Depth TCA Peels improve overall texture and help with shallow rolling scars. You’ll peel visibly for about a week. Results show up as texture smooths and skin tone evens out.
Jessner’s Peels and other combination peels help with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark marks left after acne). If you have both scarring and dark spots, peels address the discoloration while microneedling or laser handles the texture.
Here’s what we’ve learned from treating hundreds of acne scar cases in Hollywood: combining treatments works better than using just one method.
For example, subcision releases tethered tissue underneath rolling scars. Then microneedling stimulates collagen in those areas. Then fractional laser refines the overall texture. This layered approach tackles scarring from multiple angles.
Or we might do TCA Cross for your ice pick scars, then fractional CO2 laser for your boxcar and rolling scars, spacing treatments appropriately so your skin has time to heal and rebuild between sessions.
Your treatment plan depends entirely on your specific scar pattern. Most people need 3-6+ sessions over 6-12 months to see significant improvement. That sounds like a long time, but remember, you’ve probably had these scars for years. Real improvement takes patience.
Let’s set realistic expectations. Acne scar treatment significantly improves your skin, but it won’t make scars completely disappear like they never existed.
Shallow scars typically improve 60-80%. They become much less noticeable, and texture feels smoother.
Moderate scars improve 40-60%. The depth decreases, shadows are less pronounced, and overall appearance is much better.
Deep scars improve 30-50%. They’re still visible but noticeably less severe. Deep ice pick scars are the hardest to treat and might need multiple treatment types to see decent improvement.
These percentages represent realistic outcomes based on proper treatment protocols. Anyone promising complete removal is lying. But 40-60% improvement makes a huge visual difference. Your skin looks smoother, clearer, more even. Most importantly, you stop fixating on your scars constantly.
Progress is gradual. You won’t wake up after one treatment with perfect skin. But every session builds on the last. By month 6-12, when you compare before photos to current, the difference is striking.
You’re a good candidate if you have:
Realistic expectations about improvement vs. complete removal. If you understand that significant improvement is the goal, not perfection, you’ll be happy with results.
Patience for a treatment series over several months. This isn’t a quick fix. Results take time.
No active acne or minimal breakouts. We need to treat scars on relatively clear skin. If you’re still getting severe acne, we address that first, then tackle the scarring.
Willingness to follow pre and post-care instructions. Sun avoidance, proper skincare, no picking at healing skin. These things matter for results and safety.
Reasonable health and no major medical conditions that affect healing. We’ll discuss your medical history during consultation.
You should wait if:
You’re currently on Accutane. Wait at least 12 months after finishing before any scar treatments. Your skin is too fragile otherwise.
You’re pregnant or nursing. We’ll reschedule after.
You have active skin infections or open wounds. Let those heal first.
You’re very tan or sunburned. We need your skin at its natural tone.
Acne scar treatment works on all skin tones, but darker skin requires extra caution. Higher melanin content means higher risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation if treatments are too aggressive.
We adjust laser settings, use more conservative energy levels, and might space sessions further apart for darker skin tones (Fitzpatrick IV-VI). This protects against pigmentation changes while still achieving results.
Certain treatments work particularly well for darker skin. Microneedling with PRP is excellent because it doesn’t rely on light/heat that can affect melanin. Careful TCA Cross for ice pick scars works well. Erbium laser at lower settings is safer than aggressive CO2 for darker complexions.
If you have darker skin and you’ve been told acne scar treatment isn’t safe for you, that’s outdated information. With proper protocols and experienced providers, we can safely and effectively treat all skin tones throughout Hollywood, Hallandale Beach, Pembroke Pines, and Fort Lauderdale.
Downtime varies dramatically based on treatment type.
Microneedling: 24-48 hours of redness, like mild sunburn. Pinpoint bleeding during treatment that stops quickly. Most people go back to work the next day with mineral makeup.
RF Microneedling: 2-3 days of redness and slight swelling. Still manageable downtime.
Fractional Laser (CO2): 5-7 days of significant redness, swelling, and skin shedding. You’re not going out. Plan to work from home or take time off. By day 8-10, you can function with makeup.
Fractional Laser (Erbium): 3-5 days of moderate redness and peeling. Less intense than CO2 but still noticeable.
Chemical Peels (medium depth): 5-7 days of visible peeling. Your skin comes off in sheets. Not subtle.
TCA Cross: The treated scars form tiny crusts that fall off over 5-10 days. You can usually cover them with makeup after a few days.
We schedule treatments around your life. Need to look good for an event? We plan timing so you’re healed and glowing by then. Have a flexible schedule? We can do more aggressive treatments with better results but longer recovery.
Pre-treatment prep matters more than most people realize. Properly conditioned skin responds better and heals faster.
4-6 weeks before:
We might start you on a skincare regimen with tretinoin (prescription retinoid) and hydroquinone (if you have pigmentation concerns). This primes your skin for better results.
Stay out of the sun. Use SPF 50 every day. Tanned skin can’t be treated safely.
2 weeks before:
Stop any potentially irritating products. No harsh scrubs, strong acids, or new treatments.
If you’re prone to cold sores, we’ll prescribe antiviral medication.
1 week before:
Stop retinoids and prescription actives. Your skin needs to calm down before treatment.
Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water.
Day of treatment:
Come with clean skin, no makeup or products. We’ll cleanse thoroughly anyway.
Aftercare directly impacts your results. Follow instructions exactly.
First 24-48 hours:
Keep skin clean and moisturized constantly. Don’t let it dry out.
Sleep propped up to minimize swelling.
Avoid all sun exposure. Stay inside if possible.
No exercise, hot showers, or anything that makes you sweat and raises your body temperature.
First week:
Gentle cleansing only. Pat dry, never rub.
Apply healing ointments or prescribed products as directed.
Absolutely no sun exposure. Wear SPF 50 if you must go outside briefly, plus a hat.
Don’t pick, scratch, or peel any flaking skin. Let it come off naturally.
Weeks 2-4:
Continue sun protection religiously. Your new skin is vulnerable.
Gradually reintroduce gentle skincare products. No actives until we clear you.
Keep skin well-moisturized.
Come back for follow-up so we can assess healing.
Long-term:
Daily SPF is non-negotiable. Sun exposure can undo your results.
Use quality skincare to maintain improvement.
Come back for maintenance treatments as recommended.
Broward County has plenty of places offering acne scar treatments. Dermatology offices, medical spas, even some regular spas have bought equipment.
Here’s what makes us different.
We’re a licensed medical spa with a board-certified medical director. Acne scar treatment is medical care, not a spa service. We approach it with appropriate caution and expertise.
We have multiple treatment modalities available. Lasers, microneedling systems, chemical peels, subcision capability. This lets us customize your plan instead of forcing everyone into the same treatment because that’s all we have.
Our providers are specifically trained in scar treatment protocols. They understand scar tissue biology, collagen remodeling, and how different treatments work together. Experience matters when you’re treating difficult cases.
We’re realistic about what’s possible. If your scars are very deep and we think you’ll only see 30-40% improvement, we tell you that upfront. We’d rather be honest than overpromise and disappoint you.
We’re located in Hollywood, easily accessible from Hallandale Beach, Pembroke Pines, Fort Lauderdale, Aventura, Dania Beach, and throughout Broward County. Close to Hollywood Beach Broadwalk and Downtown Hollywood.
Pricing varies significantly based on treatment type and how many sessions you need.
Single microneedling treatments cost less than fractional laser sessions. Small treatment areas cost less than full face. Combination protocols cost more because you’re getting multiple treatments.
Most people need 3-6+ sessions for significant improvement. We offer package pricing that reduces per-session cost when you commit to a series.
Here’s how to think about cost. You’ve probably spent years buying products that didn’t work. Hundreds or thousands of dollars on creams, serums, and treatments that made zero difference. Professional acne scar treatment actually fixes the problem instead of temporarily covering it.
We work with CareCredit for financing if you want monthly payments instead of paying upfront.
During your free consultation, we’ll examine your scars, discuss the best treatment approach, and give you exact pricing for your specific plan. No surprises.
Let’s talk about something people don’t discuss enough. Acne scars affect more than your appearance. They affect how you feel about yourself every single day.
You avoid certain lighting. You angle your face in photos. You think about your skin constantly during conversations, wondering if people are staring at your scars instead of listening to what you’re saying.
You’ve probably been dealing with this for years. Maybe since your teens or twenties, and you’re still carrying that self-consciousness.
Improving your scars isn’t vanity. It’s about feeling comfortable in your own skin. It’s about not thinking about your face every time you meet someone new.
We get it. Most of our acne scar patients tell us the same thing: they just want to stop thinking about their scars all the time. They want to feel normal.
That’s what we’re here to help with. Real improvement that makes a real difference in how you feel.
Acne scars can be significantly improved but rarely completely removed. Realistic expectations are 30-70% improvement depending on scar depth and type. Shallow rolling scars might improve 60-80% and become barely noticeable. Deep ice pick scars might improve 30-40% but will still be somewhat visible. The goal is making scars much less noticeable so you stop fixating on them, not achieving perfect skin like scars never existed. During consultation, we’ll be honest about what’s realistic for your specific scarring. Significant improvement makes a huge difference in how your skin looks and how you feel about it.
Most people need 3-6+ treatment sessions for significant improvement, spaced 4-8 weeks apart depending on the treatment type. You’ll see some improvement after your first session, but results build cumulatively. Each treatment stimulates more collagen production and progressive improvement. Mild scarring might respond well to 3-4 sessions. Moderate to severe scarring often needs 6-8+ sessions. We don’t know the exact number until we see how your skin responds to initial treatments. Some people heal faster and respond better than others. We’ll give you realistic estimates during consultation based on your scar severity.
Discomfort varies by treatment. Microneedling involves topical numbing cream and feels like rough sandpaper scratching your face. Tolerable but not comfortable. Fractional laser stings intensely during treatment despite numbing cream, like hot pinpricks all over. Most people handle it fine for the 20-30 minutes it takes. The worst pain is usually the first 24 hours after treatment when your skin feels like severe sunburn. We give you pain management instructions and most people do okay with over-the-counter options. Chemical peels burn during application but the sensation is temporary. Recovery discomfort is manageable with proper aftercare.
Yes. Scar age doesn’t matter as much as scar type and depth. We’ve successfully treated scars that are 10, 20, even 30+ years old. Old scars might take slightly longer to respond because the collagen is very established, but they absolutely can improve significantly. The main difference is that very old scars have been there so long that slight improvement feels dramatic to you. Recent scars (less than 12-18 months old) sometimes improve faster because your body’s healing response is more active. But don’t think your scars are “too old” to treat. We regularly see excellent improvement in scars from decades ago.
Absolutely, but it requires careful protocols and experienced providers. Darker skin (Fitzpatrick IV-VI) has higher risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation if treatments are too aggressive. We use more conservative settings, gentler approaches, and specific treatments that work well on darker skin. Microneedling with PRP is excellent for all skin tones. Erbium laser at appropriate settings is safer than aggressive CO2. We also prep your skin longer before treatment and monitor healing closely. The key is going to someone experienced treating diverse skin tones, not someone who mainly works with fair skin. We’ve safely and effectively treated many patients with dark skin throughout Hollywood and Broward County.
Occasional breakouts are fine. We can treat your scars even if you get a pimple here and there. But if you have active, severe acne with multiple cystic breakouts, we need to control that first. Treating scars while you’re still creating new scars doesn’t make sense. We might recommend acne treatment first, then wait 2-3 months after your skin clears to start scar treatments. If you’re on acne medication that’s controlling breakouts well, we can proceed with scar treatment. We’ll assess during consultation and create the right timeline for your situation.
Results are long-term. Once new collagen fills in your scars and texture improves, those changes are permanent. Your scars won’t go back to how they looked before treatment. However, normal aging continues. You might eventually want maintenance treatments years later to keep your skin looking its best, but you won’t lose the improvement you gained. The new collagen structure remains. Think of it like building muscle. Once you build it, you don’t lose all that progress overnight, but you need some maintenance to keep things optimal. Most people are happy with their results for many years without needing additional scar treatments.
You’ve lived with those scars long enough. Modern treatments can significantly improve them, giving you smoother, clearer skin and the confidence that comes with it.
Your next step is a free consultation at Manhattan Laser Spa in Hollywood. We’ll examine your scars, identify which types you have, discuss the best treatment approach for your specific situation, and create a realistic plan with accurate pricing and timeline.
Call us or book your consultation online. People throughout Hollywood, Pembroke Pines, Fort Lauderdale, and Broward County trust us with their acne scar treatment.
Let’s get you the smooth, clear skin you deserve. You don’t have to live with those scars forever.
