Looking for Major Improvement in Acne Scars? Consider Ablative Lasers
If you’ve struggled with acne and finally made it to the other side, you know the relief that comes with clearer skin. But for many people, the end of breakouts doesn’t mean the end of the story. Acne scars—especially the deep, textured ones—can linger for years, acting as a reminder of a chapter you’d rather close. While skincare products and gentler treatments may help with discoloration or shallow texture, deep scars often need a more intensive approach. That’s where ablative laser resurfacing comes in.
Unlike topical products that treat the skin’s surface or non-ablative lasers that work beneath it without breaking the skin, ablative lasers actually remove damaged outer layers of skin to stimulate dramatic healing and collagen remodeling. The result? Smoother, firmer, more even skin over time. But while the outcomes can be impressive, this is a treatment that requires some serious recovery—and serious commitment.
Let’s break down how ablative lasers work, who they’re best for, and what to expect if you’re considering this route for acne scar treatment.
WHAT ARE ABLATIVE LASERS?
Ablative lasers use focused light energy to remove the top layers of the skin—essentially vaporizing the damaged tissue to make way for fresh, healthier skin to grow in its place. In the process, they also kick-start the production of collagen, the protein that gives skin its structure and firmness. Because they remove actual skin, these treatments are among the most aggressive options available for acne scars.
The two most commonly used ablative lasers are CO2 lasers and Erbium YAG lasers. CO2 lasers are the most intense, penetrating deep into the skin and often used for more severe scarring. Erbium YAG lasers offer a slightly gentler approach, with less heat damage and a shorter recovery time, making them more suitable for mild to moderate scars or sensitive skin types.
Both types can be highly effective, but the right one for you depends on your specific scars, your skin type, and your tolerance for downtime.
WHAT TYPES OF SCARS RESPOND BEST?
Not all acne scars are created equal, and not all of them respond the same way to laser resurfacing. Ablative lasers are best suited for scars that involve deeper indentations and textural irregularities. Boxcar scars—those wide, shallow depressions with defined edges—often respond beautifully to laser resurfacing, as the laser helps to soften and re-level the skin.
Ice pick scars, which are narrow and deep like small punctures, are more resistant to laser treatment. That said, some improvement is possible with repeated sessions or combination treatments that include chemical reconstruction or minor surgical techniques. Rolling scars, which give the skin a wavy, uneven look, also tend to improve with ablative lasers, especially when paired with techniques like subcision that address the deeper fibrous bands pulling the skin down.
WHAT HAPPENS DURING THE PROCEDURE?
If you’re considering ablative laser treatment, expect a process that’s more involved than a typical dermatology appointment. After a thorough consultation, your provider will prep your skin and discuss any pre-treatment guidelines, such as avoiding sun exposure or stopping certain medications.
During the treatment itself, a topical numbing agent—or in some cases, local anesthesia or sedation—is applied to keep you comfortable. The laser device is then passed over the treatment area, removing the damaged skin layer by layer. Depending on the extent of the treatment and whether the entire face is being resurfaced, the session can last anywhere from 30 minutes to over an hour.
Once it’s over, you’ll leave with very raw, red, and sensitive skin. Recovery begins immediately, but it’s not something you can rush.
RECOVERY: WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER TREATMENT
Recovery from an ablative laser treatment is not a quick or subtle process. For the first several days, your skin will be red, swollen, and tender—similar to a deep burn. Some oozing and crusting is completely normal, and you’ll need to be diligent about applying ointments and following aftercare instructions to keep the area clean and moist.
In the first week, you’ll likely want to stay home as your skin begins to peel and rebuild itself. Most people start seeing visible improvement in texture within 10 to 14 days, though the redness can take several weeks—or even months—to fully fade. During this healing period, strict sun protection is essential. New skin is more prone to damage, and UV exposure can lead to dark spots or discoloration.
Although it takes patience, the long-term results often make the downtime worth it. Over the following three to six months, your skin continues to remodel itself as collagen production increases beneath the surface. Many people report smoother, firmer skin that looks significantly more even and refreshed.
IS IT SAFE FOR ALL SKIN TONES?
This is an important question—and the answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. Ablative lasers can increase the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), particularly in individuals with medium to deep skin tones (Fitzpatrick types IV–VI). That doesn’t mean the treatment is off-limits, but it does mean that extra caution is needed.
Some providers opt for fractional versions of ablative lasers, which leave tiny bridges of intact skin between treated areas. This helps the skin heal faster and reduces the risk of pigment changes. Still, many dermatologists will recommend non-ablative or radiofrequency-based alternatives for clients with darker complexions to minimize complications while still improving texture.
If you’re unsure whether your skin is a good fit for ablative lasers, a consultation with a provider who has experience treating diverse skin tones is key.
HOW DOES IT COMPARE TO OTHER SCAR TREATMENTS?
Ablative lasers are among the most aggressive and effective options for acne scars, but they’re not the only path. Non-ablative lasers like Fraxel Dual offer a gentler alternative that stimulates collagen without removing skin, making them better suited for lighter scarring or clients who can’t accommodate downtime.
Microneedling is another option that creates tiny injuries in the skin to encourage healing and collagen growth. It’s a good choice for mild texture issues, though results are generally more subtle and require multiple sessions.
Chemical peels can help with discoloration and surface-level texture, but they’re typically not powerful enough to address deeper scars on their own.
If your scars are severe and you’re looking for significant results—and you’re prepared for the downtime—ablative laser resurfacing may be the most transformative option available.
WHY WE DON’T USE ABLATIVE LASERS AT CLEAR
At CLEAR Acne Treatment Centers, we focus on helping clients prevent acne scars by stopping breakouts at their source. That’s why we specialize in AviClear®, the first ever FDA-cleared laser that treats acne by targeting the oil glands directly. Rather than removing skin or requiring recovery time, AviClear® gently and effectively reduces the frequency and severity of breakouts over time.
It’s a forward-looking approach—because the best way to treat acne scars is to prevent them from forming in the first place.
That said, for clients who have already completed their AviClear® treatments and are interested in scar revision, we’re always happy to refer you to trusted partners who specialize in ablative laser resurfacing and other advanced scar treatments.
FINAL THOUGHTS: IS ABLATIVE LASER RIGHT FOR YOU?
If your acne is under control and you’re ready to address the scars left behind, ablative laser resurfacing might be a strong contender—especially if you have deeper scarring and are comfortable with the downtime involved. It’s not the right choice for everyone, but when performed by an experienced provider, it can deliver dramatic improvements in skin texture, firmness, and confidence.
On the other hand, if you’re still actively breaking out or are new to acne treatment altogether, it’s best to start with a solution that targets the root cause. AviClear® may be the perfect first step.
LET’S GET YOU CLOSER TO CLEAR SKIN—AND CONFIDENCE
Whether you’re just starting your acne journey or looking for a way to finally feel good in your skin again, we’re here to help. Book your free consultation at CLEAR Acne Treatment Centers and find out if AviClear® is the long-term solution you’ve been waiting for.
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