Acne can affect individuals of all ages due to various factors, including hormonal changes, medications, diet, and genetics. Beyond the discomfort of breakouts, acne can also lead to scarring, particularly when pimples are picked or popped. While some scars may fade over time, others can be permanent. Fortunately, with the help of dermatologist-recommended products designed to treat acne scars, you can effectively minimize the damage caused by breakouts.
Understanding Acne Scars
There are several types of acne scars. According to Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD, a dermatologist in New York City, acne scarring typically presents in the following ways:
- Hyperpigmentation: This can manifest as brown or red discoloration of the skin.
- Depressed scars: Also known as atrophic scars, these include ice pick scars (narrow and deep), boxcar scars (shallow with sharp edges), and rolling scars (shallow with smooth edges).
- Raised scars: These are also referred to as hypertrophic or keloidal scars.
“Severe acne has a greater chance of leaving permanent scars while it heals,” Dr. Garshick notes. She also points out that topical treatments have their limitations, and modalities like chemical peels and microneedling can be beneficial in diminishing acne scarring.
Joshua Zeichner, MD, director of cosmetic and clinical research at Mount Sinai Hospital’s Department of Dermatology, adds, “Unfortunately, topical treatments have limited use in treating acne scars, and physical modalities, like lasers, are often needed.” Dr. Zeichner explains that depressed scars typically benefit more from lasers, thick and raised scars are treated with cortisone injections, and ice pick scars are usually removed with a minor surgical procedure.
The Causes of Acne Scars
Scarring occurs as a result of skin injury combined with factors such as excess oil production, bacteria, and inflammation. Dr. Zeichner elaborates, “Inflammation in the skin tells our pigment-producing cells to become overactive, explaining why pimples leave behind dark spots.” While the resulting hyperpigmentation isn’t permanent, it can be a source of concern for some individuals and can present differently depending on one’s complexion.
“[Hyperpigmentation] is more common in patients with darker skin tones,” he adds. “Whereas, [lighter-skinned] patients are often left with pink or red spots in areas where there used to be pimples. This post-inflammatory erythema heals on its own over several weeks.” Although most superficial breakouts heal without leaving a significant mark, some can result in more noticeable scars. “This is why it’s advised to avoid picking pimples. It can lead to more injury to the skin, which can lead to a greater chance of a scar,” Dr. Garshick advises.
How We Selected the Best Products for Acne Scars
To compile this list, we consulted dermatologists regarding their preferred products for various types of acne scarring. Their recommendations considered:
- Skin type
- Product efficacy
- Potential safety concerns for patients
It’s important to remember that while some scarring can be managed at home, seeking professional advice from a dermatologist is crucial for severe scarring. Beyond over-the-counter (OTC) products available at major retailers, various other methods can help fade acne scars. Discussing these alternatives with your dermatologist during an appointment is highly recommended.
Pricing Guide
Skincare products can range in price from as low as $10 to over $100. Our experts have suggested a selection of both cost-effective and premium options.
- $ = under $20
- $$ = $20-$50
- $$$ = over $50
Healthline’s Picks for the Best Products to Get Rid of Acne Scars
Best Over-the-Counter (OTC) Retinoid for Acne Scars
Differin Gel Adapalene Gel 0.1% Acne Treatment
Price: $
Best for: All types of acne scars
Skin type: Normal, acne-prone, oily, combination
Vegan: No
Fragrance-free: Yes
Key ingredients: Adapalene 0.1% (retinoid)
Product size: 0.5-ounce (oz) tube
Use: Once daily
Differin Gel is a long-standing OTC retinoid treatment. Its active ingredient, adapalene, helps reduce swelling and inflammation, prevent breakouts, and treat scarring. According to Dr. Garshick, “it can help discoloration and textural changes that go along with acne scars by evening out the skin tone and boosting collagen production.” She advises starting with a few applications per week and gradually increasing frequency as tolerated, noting it's safe for once-daily use. Reviewers report that the product gently cleared various types of acne, including cystic acne, with visible improvement in their skin within approximately 12 weeks.
Best Skin Toner for Acne Scars
Neutrogena Rapid Clear 2-in-1 Fight & Fade Toner
Price: $
Best for: All types of acne scars
Skin type: Acne-prone
Vegan: No
Fragrance-free: No
Key ingredients: 2% salicylic acid
Product size: 8-oz bottle
Use: 1-3 times daily
Toning is an essential step in any skincare routine, performed after cleansing. Among the many toners available, Neutrogena Rapid Clear 2-in-1 Fight & Fade Toner is a popular choice for combating acne. This toner contains salicylic acid, known for its ability to reduce breakouts and fade post-breakout discoloration. Dr. Garshick mentions that the glycolic acid in the toner aids in removing dead skin cells, while the Glyctone Enhance Brightening Complex combined with azelaic acid helps to brighten the skin. “Because both azelaic acid and glycolic acid may be considered pregnancy-safe, this may be an option for pregnant or nursing moms dealing with acne and hyperpigmentation,” Dr. Garshick suggests, though she emphasizes consulting a doctor first. Some users observed results overnight, while others reported improvements within weeks.
Best Exfoliating Peel Pads for Acne Scars
skinbetter science AlphaRet Exfoliating Peel Pads
Price: $$$
Best for: All types of acne scars
Skin type: All skin types
Vegan: No
Fragrance-free: Yes
Key ingredients: Glycolic, lactic, and salicylic acid
Product size: 30 peel pads
Use: Up to 3 times weekly
These pads are among the pricier options, costing around $100 per pack, but their usage is limited to one or two times per week. The pads are formulated with hydroxy acids, including lactic acid, salicylic acid, and glycolic acid, in conjunction with AlphaRet, a retinoid that promotes collagen production. “It’s easy to use and a great option for those looking for an exfoliant to help brighten the skin and improve the skin tone and texture associated with acne scars,” Dr. Garshick states. Glycolic and lactic acids help lighten discoloration, while salicylic acid works to unclog pores. Users appreciate how effectively these pads exfoliate their skin between dermatological visits and their convenience for travel.
Best Exfoliating Cleanser for Acne Scars
SkinMedica AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser
Price: $$
Best for: All types of acne scarring
Skin type: All skin types
Vegan: No
Fragrance-free: No
Key ingredients: Salicylic acid, licorice root extract, glycerin
Product size: 6-oz bottle
Use: Day and night routine, as tolerated by skin
This cleanser effectively exfoliates and cleanses simultaneously. It contains a blend of alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), including lactic acid, glycolic acid, citric acid, and malic acid, which help improve skin tone and texture and prevent breakouts. “This combination makes the cleanser a great option for those with acne scars and blemishes, as it helps to improve skin tone,” explains Dr. Garshick. Reviews indicate that despite being an exfoliant, it is gentle enough for regular use. Individuals with sensitive skin may experience temporary redness after exfoliating. It is crucial to use sunscreen after using this cleanser, as AHAs can increase sun sensitivity.
Best Exfoliating Body Cleanser for Sensitive Skin
Dove Gentle Exfoliating Body Wash
Price: $
Best for: All types of acne scars
Skin type: Normal, dry, combination, mature
Vegan: No
Fragrance-free: No
Key ingredients: Stearic acid, palmitic acid
Product size: 22-oz bottle
Use: Safe for daily use if needed
While acne is common on the face, it can also appear on the body, including the back and chest. Those dealing with scarring from body acne will find this budget-friendly cleanser beneficial. Designed with sensitive skin in mind, it gently exfoliates, leaving the skin smooth and moisturized. Dr. Garshick recommends this cleanser for individuals who cannot tolerate chemical exfoliants. “This gentle exfoliating wash helps to get rid of dead skin cells, improving the appearance of dark spots, blemishes, and acne scars,” she states. Users with skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema have reported positive results from using this Dove cleanser.
Best Retinol Serum for Acne Scars
CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum
Price: $$
Best for: All types of acne scars
Skin type: Oily, dry, combination, acne-prone, mature
Vegan: No
Fragrance-free: Yes
Key ingredients: Licorice root extract, ceramides, niacinamide, retinol
Product size: 1-oz bottle
Use: Daily
This CeraVe retinol serum is suitable for all types of acne scars and is an excellent starting point for those new to retinol. Retinol aids in resurfacing skin texture, while licorice root extract brightens the skin and enhances its overall appearance. “This serum contains ceramides and niacinamide, so it’s both gentle and soothing on the skin,” explains Dr. Garshick. Ceramides help restore and maintain the skin’s natural barrier, while niacinamide reduces inflammation and calms the skin. Customer reviews indicate that this retinol leaves skin smooth and is gentle enough for sensitive skin. Unlike some other retinol forms, users find this one to be moisturizing and non-drying.
Best Sunscreen for Acne Scars
EltaMD UV Daily Broad-Spectrum SPF 40
Price: $$
Best for: Discoloration
Skin type: Combination, normal, post-procedure
Vegan: Yes
Fragrance-free: Yes
Key ingredients: 9% zinc oxide, 7.5% octinoxate, hyaluronic acid, vitamin E
Product size: 1.7-oz bottle
Use: Daily (reapply every 2 hours)
Sunscreen is a non-negotiable element of any skincare routine. For acne scar management, sunscreen plays a crucial role in preventing scars from darkening. This popular EltaMD sunscreen contains niacinamide, which helps soothe the skin, calm redness, and improve discoloration. “I especially love this sunscreen for those with acne-prone skin or discoloration. It’s a lightweight, oil-free sunscreen that won’t leave the skin feeling greasy,” says Dr. Garshick. Reviewers praise this sunscreen for its suitability for sensitive skin and its performance under makeup. Despite its higher price point for some customers, its effectiveness makes it a worthwhile investment. The brand also offers a tinted version for those seeking a sheer coverage without foundation.
Best Oil-Free Serum for Acne Scars
SkinCeuticals Blemish + Age Defense
Price: $$$
Best for: Discoloration, anti-aging
Skin type: Acne-prone, oily, combination, mature
Vegan: No
Fragrance-free: Yes
Key ingredients: Salicylic acid, dioic acid, glycolic acid
Product size: 1-oz bottle
Use: Day and night routine
This dual-purpose, oil-free face serum is expensive but highly regarded. It combines 2% dioic acid with salicylic acid and glycolic acid. Dioic acid helps reduce sebum production, while salicylic and glycolic acids work to minimize breakouts and post-acne marks by brightening the skin and improving its texture. According to Dr. Garshick, “this can be used for all acne scars and can be especially helpful for someone who’s also looking to improve signs of aging.” Reviewers report that this product effectively keeps various types of acne at bay and has helped prevent maskne. Some users observed results within a week. Individuals with dry or sensitive skin should use a good moisturizer after applying this product, as some customers have experienced peeling and dryness.
Best Overnight Retinol for Acne Scars
RoC RETINOL CORREXION Line Smoothing Night Serum Capsules
Price: $$
Best for: Depressed or rolling scars
Skin type: Mature
Vegan: Plant-based product, not vegan certified
Fragrance-free: Yes
Key ingredients: Antioxidant dimethylmethoxy chromanol, retinol
Product size: 30 capsules per 0.35-oz jar
Use: Nightly
These retinol capsules are a favorite of Dr. Zeichner for his patients. “Retinol is known to enhance cell turnover, stimulate collagen, and improve the appearance of mild scars,” he states. RoC’s retinol is particularly effective due to its stabilized form within single-use capsules. It can benefit individuals with depressed or rolling scars and requires consistent use over several weeks to months for optimal results. Customers appreciate how smooth their skin feels after overnight use and the rapid reduction in the appearance of fine lines.
Best Glycolic Acid At-Home Treatment for Acne Scars
Alpha-H Liquid Gold with Glycolic Acid
Price: $$$
Best for: Discoloration
Skin type: All skin types, especially mature
Vegan: Not certified vegan
Fragrance-free: Yes
Key ingredients: Glycolic acid, licorice root extract
Certifications: Cruelty-free, paraben-free
Product size: 3.38-oz bottle
Use: Every other night
Glycolic acid is a key ingredient for addressing acne scarring. Dr. Zeichner explains that “exfoliating ingredients, like salicylic acid and glycolic acid, are useful by helping the skin to shed darkly pigmented cells.” He describes this particular glycolic acid as potent, effectively brightening, strengthening, and evening out skin tone. The product is suitable for normal, oily, combination, and dry skin types. Reviewers report that the glycolic acid keeps their skin soft while fading dark spots and improving skin texture. Those with sensitive skin may benefit from gradually introducing this product into their routine and limiting its frequency of use.
Reviewing Glycolic Acid Skincare Hacks | Doctorly Explains
Best Post-Breakout Treatment for Acne Scars
Naturium Tranexamic Acid Topical Acid 5%
Price: $$
Best for: Discoloration
Skin type: All skin types
Vegan: Yes
Fragrance-free: Yes
Key ingredients: Tranexamic acid 5%, niacinamide, vitamin C
Product size: 1-oz bottle
Use: Daily
Tranexamic acid is a powerful ingredient for targeting hyperpigmentation and stubborn dark spots left behind by acne. This serum combines 5% tranexamic acid with niacinamide and vitamin C, creating a potent formula to fade discoloration and even skin tone. Dr. Garshick notes that tranexamic acid works by inhibiting melanin production, which is responsible for dark spots. Reviewers often praise this serum for its effectiveness in reducing the appearance of post-acne marks and its gentle formulation.
Best Acne Scar Treatment with Vitamin C
Murad InvisiScar Resurfacing Treatment
Price: $$$
Best for: All types of acne scars
Skin type: All skin types
Vegan: No
Fragrance-free: No
Key ingredients: Salicylic acid, vitamin C, hydroxy acids
Product size: 1-oz bottle
Use: Daily
Murad InvisiScar Resurfacing Treatment is a comprehensive solution for improving the appearance of acne scars. It contains salicylic acid to exfoliate and promote cell turnover, vitamin C to brighten and even skin tone, and a blend of hydroxy acids to smooth skin texture. Dr. Garshick highlights that this treatment is designed to target multiple types of acne scars, including atrophic and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Users report noticeable improvements in scar texture and overall skin clarity after consistent use.
Best Budget Product for Acne Scars
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
Price: $
Best for: Discoloration, oil control
Skin type: Oily, acne-prone, combination
Vegan: Yes
Fragrance-free: Yes
Key ingredients: Niacinamide 10%, zinc PCA 1%
Product size: 1-oz bottle
Use: Daily
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is a highly effective and affordable serum for addressing acne scars, particularly discoloration and oiliness. Niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3, is known for its ability to reduce inflammation, improve skin barrier function, and fade hyperpigmentation. Zinc PCA helps regulate sebum production, which can contribute to breakouts. Dr. Garshick notes that this serum is a fantastic option for those seeking a budget-friendly yet potent treatment for post-acne marks. Reviewers rave about its ability to calm redness and significantly reduce the appearance of dark spots.
Best Peel Pads with Retinol for Acne Scars
Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel
Price: $$$
Best for: All types of acne scars
Skin type: All skin types
Vegan: No
Fragrance-free: Yes
Key ingredients: Glycolic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, retinol
Product size: 30 pairs of pads
Use: Daily
Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel pads offer a convenient and effective way to exfoliate and treat acne scars. Each pad contains a blend of alpha and beta hydroxy acids, including glycolic acid, lactic acid, and salicylic acid, along with retinol. This combination works to remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and stimulate collagen production, leading to smoother, clearer skin. Dr. Garshick recommends these pads for their ability to address multiple concerns, including texture, tone, and discoloration associated with acne scars. Users appreciate the immediate radiance and smoother skin texture after use.
Best Acne Scar Product for Dark Spots
Dermalogica Age Bright Spot Fader
Price: $$$
Best for: Dark spots, hyperpigmentation
Skin type: All skin types
Vegan: No
Fragrance-free: Yes
Key ingredients: Niacinamide, salicylic acid, tranexamic acid, vitamin C
Product size: 0.5-oz bottle
Use: Daily
Dermalogica Age Bright Spot Fader is specifically formulated to target and fade dark spots caused by acne. It combines powerful ingredients like niacinamide, salicylic acid, tranexamic acid, and vitamin C to effectively reduce hyperpigmentation and prevent new dark spots from forming. Dr. Garshick notes that this targeted treatment is excellent for those struggling with persistent post-acne discoloration. Reviewers often mention seeing a visible reduction in the intensity of dark spots with regular use.
General Skincare Advice for Acne Scars
Before delving into specific skincare products, it's crucial to remember that consistency is key. Finding the right cleansers, moisturizers, and other skincare products for your skin type is imperative, but so is making sure you follow your skincare routine daily.
When dealing with dark spots, the last thing you want to do is irritate your skin with harsh cleansing. Be sure to reach for a gentle formula that won’t strip your skin, and avoid rubbing too vigorously. Consider a cleanser like the CeraVe Acne Control Cleanser, formulated specifically for acne-prone skin. It contains 2% salicylic acid to clear acne and reduce blackheads, while kaolin clay helps absorb excess oil.
In some cases, blemishes can be caused by overly dry skin, prompting your body to produce more oil to compensate. This excess oil can clog pores, leading to more breakouts and, consequently, more dark spots. Opt for a lightweight moisturizer that hydrates and nourishes without being harsh on the skin. Look for products labeled non-comedogenic or that state they “won’t clog pores.” If your skin continues to struggle with clogged pores or occasional breakouts beneath surface marks, the CeraVe Oil Control Moisturizing Gel-Cream is a great option, featuring oil-absorbing technology and hydrating ingredients for all-day moisture and shine control.
As a reminder, always wear sunscreen. Try a sunscreen like the CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 50, which has a blendable formula with broad-spectrum SPF 50, providing all-day hydration and protection from UV rays. Don't forget your body, either: use the CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 Body Lotion, a 100% mineral sunscreen with titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. Beyond sunscreen, taking other protective measures is also important.
Incorporating topical retinoids into your skincare routine is one way to improve the appearance of post-acne marks. Consider introducing retinol to your skin with a serum like the CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum. It helps smooth skin texture by reducing the appearance of post-acne marks, minimizing pore size, and improving the skin’s surface. Keep in mind that retinoids (like retinol) can increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun.
As essential as including the right types of products in your skincare routine is, it’s also important to pay attention to specific ingredients.
It’s true that stress can lead to pimples and breakouts, which in turn can lead to post-acne marks. While achieving a completely stress-free life may not be possible, you can take steps to reduce stress as much as possible. Focus on self-care each day, which can be as simple as dedicating time to your evening skincare routine.
Change takes time. While this might not be exactly what you want to hear when seeking to improve the appearance of post-acne marks, it remains true. It’s important to set realistic expectations for your skincare routine and avoid becoming discouraged.