Acne Scars

Not every scar is the same

Effective treatment depends on classifying the type of scar correctly. Broadly, we treat two types: atrophic acne scars – depressed scars, and the most common type – and erythematous scars, which are flat but permanently reddened by an increase in blood vessels.

Our approach

Fractional CO2 laser for atrophic scars: hundreds of microchannels create a stimulus for new collagen formation, which lifts the base of the scar over several months and makes the edges appear softer.

KTP laser for reddened scars: the light is absorbed by the blood pigment and closes off the excess vessels; the redness fades noticeably.

We often combine the two in a single session. One requirement is that the acne has settled – while inflammation is still active we treat the underlying condition first, otherwise new scars keep forming.

Realistic expectations

Acne scars can be improved considerably, but they cannot be removed entirely. A realistic outcome is a 50 to 70 per cent improvement in the scar relief over three sessions. Anyone expecting scar-free skin will be disappointed – anyone aiming for a visibly calmer, more even complexion will as a rule achieve it. The result develops slowly: six months after the last session the collagen remodelling is complete.

Procedure and healing

After anaesthetic cream and, where needed, a local anaesthetic, the treatment takes 30 to 60 minutes. With the CO2 laser you should expect around seven days of redness, swelling and flaking; with the KTP laser, three to four days of mild redness. Four weeks of sun protection are essential. Sessions are six to eight weeks apart so that collagen build-up can take effect between appointments.

Complementary care at SKIN.

Between laser sessions and during follow-up care, medical peels and microdermabrasion from our skincare department SKIN. support skin renewal. We agree the interval to your laser treatments together – used too soon, they would interfere with healing.

Fees

Treatment	Fee
Partial area (e.g. cheeks), per session	from €450
Full face, per session	from €1,290
KTP treatment of reddened scars, per session	from €350
Back or décolletage, per session	from €590

For patients with statutory health insurance, the treatment of acne scars is a self-pay service (IGeL); it is billed under the GOÄ private fee schedule. Private health insurers usually reimburse it. Treatment of active acne is covered by statutory health insurance. Where there is a medical indication the service is exempt from VAT; where the indication is aesthetic, the amounts are final prices including 19 % VAT.

Frequently asked questions

What does treatment for acne scars cost?

A partial area from €450 per session, the full face from €1,290. Since three sessions are usually needed, we will give you the likely total in the consultation.

How many sessions will I need?

As a rule three, six to eight weeks apart. With very pronounced scarring more may be worthwhile – we assess that together after the second session.

Will the scars disappear completely?

No. A realistic outcome is an improvement of 50 to 70 per cent. The complexion becomes noticeably calmer, but scar-free skin cannot be created.

Can I be treated while my acne is still active?

No. The acne has to settle first, otherwise new scars keep forming. Acne treatment itself is covered by statutory health insurance.

How long does it take to see the result?

First improvements after four to six weeks, the final result about six months after the last session.

Does health insurance pay for it?

Private health insurers usually reimburse scar treatment; for patients with statutory health insurance it is a self-pay service. Treatment of active acne is covered by insurance in both cases.

Source: S2k-Leitlinie "Lasertherapie der Haut" (German S2k guideline on laser therapy of the skin; DDG); S2k-Leitlinie "Therapie der Akne" (German S2k guideline on acne treatment; DDG)