How we treat ice pick scars in Gangnam

What are ice pick scars?

Acne scars come in several shapes. Ice pick scars are the narrowest and deepest: usually under 2 mm wide at the surface, with steep walls that can extend into the deeper dermis. They form when inflammation from a deep pimple or cyst destroys tissue in a column, and the skin heals with a tunnel-like pit.

They are often mixed with other types:

• Boxcar scars — wider, with sharp edges and a flatter base
• Rolling scars — broad, soft depressions caused by fibrous bands tethering the skin
• Red or brown marks — flat discolouration that is not a true scar and often fades with time or toning

Because ice pick scars are narrow and deep, treatments that only work on the surface tend to make little difference to them. That is why the doctor first maps which scar types you have, then plans a combination. If you are still breaking out, the first step is controlling active acne — see our acne options — since new inflammation creates new scars.

Treatment options for ice pick scars

Each option works at a different depth. The doctor usually combines two or more and spaces them over months:

Pure ice pick scars respond mainly to laser and microneedling that reach the scar walls; filler and subcision help most where ice pick scars sit inside rolling or boxcar areas. A SIGNATURE scar programme (₩1,200,000) is also available for extensive scarring. Read more about combined approaches on our acne scar treatment page.

Prices in KRW, 10% VAT not included, updated September 2026. See the acne scar treatment price list.

What changes with treatment

Improvement is gradual: collagen remodelling continues for months after each session, so the clearest change is often seen 3–6 months into a plan. Scars typically become shallower and cast less shadow rather than disappearing. Some people also benefit from laser resurfacing for overall texture.

How an ice pick scar plan works

1. Scar mapping The doctor examines scars under angled light and notes ice pick, boxcar and rolling areas.
2. Numbing Numbing cream for about 30–40 minutes before laser, microneedling or subcision.
3. Layered treatment One or more options are performed, targeting each scar type at its depth.
4. Recovery & review Calming care, then a review 4+ weeks later before the next session.

Scar plans need time, so they suit people who can return every month or so. If you are visiting Seoul once, the doctor can perform a first session and explain what to continue at home or with a local clinic. Avoid tanning before and after treatment, because sun exposure raises the risk of darker marks.

Downtime, side effects and who should wait

Scar treatments are more intensive than facials, and recovery reflects that:

• Common: redness, swelling and a sunburn-like feeling for 2–5 days; tiny grid marks or scabs after laser or microneedling; bruising after subcision.
• Less common: temporary darker patches (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation), especially in darker skin, acne flares, or lumps at filler sites that settle over weeks.
• Rare: infection, cold sore reactivation, new scarring, or a filler-related vascular complication — one reason scar filler is only done by a doctor.

Who should wait or tell the doctor

• People taking or recently stopping isotretinoin — a waiting period is usually advised
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Active acne, infection, cold sores or eczema in the area
• A history of keloids, bleeding disorders, blood thinners, or recent tanning

Afterwards, use only gentle skincare and SPF, avoid makeup for about 24–48 hours, and skip saunas and intense exercise for a few days.

Ice pick scar FAQ