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Z(it) Happens / Post-Acne

Laser Therapy for Acne Scars: When It’s Time and What to Know

2 June, 2025

by Jenna Curcio

You’ve finally made progress calming your acne — but the scars? Still hanging out. If you’re dealing with the aftermath of breakouts and thinking about laser therapy, you’re not alone. Acne laser treatment has become a go-to option for smoothing skin and supporting visible progress, but timing is everything.

Let’s talk through what laser therapy can (and can’t) do for acne scars, and how to know when you’re ready.

First Things First: Is Laser Therapy the Right Move Right Now?

If you’re still breaking out regularly, pause. Acne laser treatment is most effective after your skin has chilled out and new breakouts aren’t popping up constantly. Otherwise, you’ll treat old scars just to make room for new ones.

Laser therapy isn’t a magic eraser — but it can be a breakthrough when used strategically. Step one: build a consistent skincare routine that keeps active acne in check.

The Breakout Defense Routine is an easy place to start. It includes the Chamomile Jelly Cleanser, Blemish Control & Exfoliating Serum, and Sulfur Spot Treatment — three solid staples to support clearer skin, barrier health, and gentle exfoliation.

Once breakouts are occasional instead of all the time, laser therapy starts to make a lot more sense.


How Acne Laser Treatment Works

Laser therapy uses concentrated light energy to:

  • Stimulate collagen

  • Smooth uneven texture

  • Fade dark marks or redness

  • Visibly soften indents from deep breakouts

Translation: It can help skin feel more balanced and boost confidence, especially for deeper acne scars. But depending on your skin and scar type, it might take a few sessions to see real results.


Types of Laser Treatments for Acne Scars 

Each type of acne laser treatment works a little differently. Here’s a quick rundown:

  • Fractional Laser (Fraxel):
    Best for: textured scars like boxcar or rolling scars
    Downtime: 3–7 days of redness or peeling
    Skin tones: Generally safe across most tones

  • CO2 Laser:
    Best for: deep scars and full resurfacing
    Downtime: Up to 2 weeks
    Skin tones: Best for lighter skin due to higher pigmentation risks

  • Erbium YAG Laser:
    Best for: moderate texture and fine lines
    Downtime: 3–7 days
    Skin tones: Safer for medium tones

  • Pulsed Dye Laser (PDL/Vbeam):
    Best for: redness/post-inflammatory erythema
    Downtime: 1–3 days
    Skin tones: Generally safe for all

  • Nd:YAG Laser:
    Best for: dark spots, subtle texture, and deeper skin tones
    Downtime: Low
    Skin tones: Preferred option for melanin-rich skin


When to Book It

Laser therapy can deliver visible progress, but timing is everything. Consider this your short checklist:

  • Acne is under control? Good. That’s key. Lasers don’t treat active breakouts.

  • Your post-acne marks are older than 3–6 months? Great. Some hyperpigmentation and redness fades naturally.

  • You’re off strong topicals like tretinoin? You will more than likely need to pause them before and potentially after treatment. Your provider will guide you.

This is where community matters. Find a provider you trust or that your BFF recommended. A board-certified dermatologist or experienced laser specialist can recommend the best acne laser treatment for your skin tone, needs, and healing window.


What to Expect After Treatment

Laser therapy has a rep for being intense — but it’s usually manageable. Here’s what’s typical:

  • Redness and swelling for a few days

  • Flaking or dryness as your skin heals

  • Sensitivity to sun — SPF is an absolute must

  • Gradual results (many see improvement in 7–10 days, but full results take longer or even multiple treatments)


When It Comes Down To It: Lasers Can Support Your Skin, But Timing Is Everything

Acne laser treatment can be a powerful next step in your skincare journey. But if you're still in the middle of breakouts, the most effective move is to get those under control first. Build a routine that supports clarity and balance. Give your skin space to heal.

Then, when you're ready, laser therapy can help you take that next step — with support, confidence, and results that align with the progress you've already made.

 

Author

Jenna Curcio

Ciao, I’m Jenna :) I’m a writer and brand strategist with 6+ years of experience telling stories in the beauty world — both professionally and personally. After years of dealing with acne, I know how overwhelming and emotional the skincare journey can be. I’m here to make it feel a little less confusing and a lot more human.

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