What type of acne scars do you have?
Acne scars form when deep inflammation damages collagen as a breakout heals. Most scars on the face are depressed (atrophic), and they come in three main shapes that respond differently to treatment:
- Ice pick scars — narrow, deep openings that look like large pores; see our ice pick scars page
- Boxcar scars — wider depressions with sharp edges, often on the cheeks and temples
- Rolling scars — soft, wave-like dips caused by fibrous bands pulling the skin down from below
Red or brown marks left after a spot are usually not true scars but post-inflammatory redness or pigment, which fade with toning lasers and time. Raised scars on the jaw or chest are handled differently again. Active acne should be controlled first, ideally with CAPRI laser or medical care, because new breakouts create new scars.
How we treat acne scars at Bailor
Most good results come from combining two or three methods over several sessions. These are the options and packages the doctor works with:
| Option | What it includes | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| AVVIO Fractional + Cryo Calming | Fractional laser with cooling | Shallow boxcar scars, texture | ₩150,000 |
| Acne Scar Filler BASIC | AVVIO + Juvelook 3cc subcision | Rolling scars | ₩400,000 |
| Acne Scar Filler STANDARD | BASIC + Potenza N-25 | Mixed scars with pores | ₩500,000 |
| Acne Scar Filler PREMIUM | AVVIO + Potenza + Re2O 50mg | Deeper, widespread scars | ₩700,000 |
| Acne Scar Filler SIGNATURE | Most comprehensive single session | Severe, mixed scarring | ₩1,200,000 |
| Acne Scar Filler 4-session package | Course of scar filler sessions | Planned full course | ₩1,150,000 |
| Juvelook Acne Scar Filler 5 sessions | Juvelook-based scar course | Rolling and boxcar scars | ₩1,850,000 |
Prices in KRW, 10% VAT not included, updated September 2026. See the acne scar treatment price page.
Subcision with scar filler is particularly useful for rolling scars, because it releases the bands pulling the skin down before collagen-stimulating material supports the area.
What changes in acne scars
Filler and subcision can lift rolling scars soon after swelling settles, while laser and RF collagen remodelling continues for 3–6 months after each session. Scars usually become shallower and catch less light, but complete removal is not a realistic goal. For deeper, narrow scars, see our approach on the ice pick scars page.
How an acne scar session works
- Scar mapping The doctor examines scars under angled light, classifies each type and checks for active acne.
- Numbing Numbing cream for about 40 minutes; local anaesthetic at points used for subcision.
- Combined treatment 30–60 minutes: subcision and filler, then fractional laser or Potenza, depending on the plan.
- Cooling & recovery Cryo calming or a soothing mask, then aftercare instructions and SPF.
Because acne scar sessions cause several days of redness and possible bruising, visitors usually book them at the start of a Seoul trip. A full course takes 3–5 months, so many patients plan sessions across repeated visits about 4 weeks apart.
Downtime, side effects and aftercare
Acne scar treatment is more intensive than most skin treatments, so it is worth knowing what to expect:
- Common: redness, swelling and a sandpaper feel for 2–5 days; pinpoint scabs after fractional laser; bruising after subcision lasting up to a week.
- Less common: post-inflammatory pigmentation, especially in darker skin types or with sun exposure; a temporary breakout; small lumps after scar filler.
- Rare: infection, worsened scarring, prolonged redness or a cold sore flare.
Who should wait, or tell the doctor first
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Isotretinoin now or within the past 6 months
- Active acne, infection or cold sores in the area
- A tendency to keloid scars, a recent tan, or blood thinners
Skip makeup for 24 hours, avoid saunas, alcohol and swimming for 3 days, do not pick at scabs, and use SPF daily for several weeks. Send a photo on WhatsApp if redness or pain is increasing.
Dr. Jimin Kang, Medical Director
Every acne scar plan at Bailor starts with a face-to-face skin assessment by a doctor — not a sales counsellor. Dr. Kang's approach is "tailored, not templated": she chooses the product, dose and depth for your skin, and treats you herself or works alongside the other doctors on our in-house medical team.
Acne scar FAQ
How much does acne scar treatment cost in Gangnam?
At Bailor Clinic in Sinsa, AVVIO fractional with cryo calming starts from ₩150,000, Acne Scar Filler BASIC is ₩400,000 and a Juvelook scar filler 5-session package is ₩1,850,000, VAT excluded. See the acne scar price list.
Can acne scars be removed completely?
Usually not. A realistic goal is noticeably shallower, smoother scars — often around a 30–60% improvement over a full course.
How many sessions do I need?
Most people need 3–5 sessions about 4 weeks apart. Deep or widespread scarring can need more.
What is the downtime?
Expect redness and swelling for 2–5 days, and possible bruising for up to a week after subcision.
Can I treat scars while I still have acne?
Active acne should be controlled first, because inflammation can affect healing and new breakouts create new scars.
Is acne scar treatment suitable for darker skin?
Yes, with care. The doctor adjusts settings and aftercare to lower the risk of post-inflammatory pigmentation.
