Are lasers or fillers better for “rolling” and “ice pick” acne scars?

Dr. Irwin
October 7, 2014
What are your thoughts for fillers vs laser on Fitzpatrick III-IV skin type with "rolling" and "ice pick" acne scars on the face? Thanks

Good questions!   Each person is an individual but here are some thoughts to discuss with your dermatologist:

  • Ice pick scars are more difficult to improve. They do NOT do well with fillers.   Lasers or actual surgical excision of the scars with tiny stitches or punch grafting is better.
  • Rolling scars do well with lasers, fillers and….. BOTH lasers and filler generally are even better.   Don’t overlook the value of subscision on these as well.
  • “Box car” and chicken pox scars are very difficult to improve but fortunately are less common.  Subscision and laser together tend to be common strategies.

More on treating acne scars here.

Hope this helps,   Dr. I

 

Dr. Brandith Irwin, MD

Ask me your skincare question!

Hi, I’m Dr. Irwin. I believe that consumers deserve a medically trained and unbiased skin care advocate.

  • All our content is written and researched by myself.
  • My medical office in Seattle has treated thousands of patients for 15+ years.
  • This site is not affiliated or financially tied to any product, treatment or device.
Ask Me Something
SkinTour Skincare
One of the best investments in your skin is your daily skincare. Why? Because you can prevent many problems with blotchy skin color, lack of glow, texture, some types of acne, and fine lines with good skincare products. You can also correct some of these problems with effective skincare products. Great skincare is often more expensive because quality ingredients are expensive. Some companies spend on research/development which benefits all of us and adds to the cost. Are they worth it? In general - yes! I have handpicked some of what I consider to be the best skin care products, and offer them for sale on SkinTour's shop. This is based on my team and I's testing and research at our clinic. Many of the products are in my own regimen. What could be better than using skin care products a dermatologist uses?!
Browse Shop