Acne Scar Fillers: Everything You Need to Know About Minimally Invasive Treatments
Acne scars are like the guest you never invited to a party but show up anyway. After a pimple heals, your skin doesn’t always look the same as before, but can be left with red, raised, scarred, and even discolored spots. “This happens when your skin tries to repair itself but doesn’t do a perfect job,” says double-board certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon Sami Khalifian, MD. If you’re wondering if there’s anything you can do about it, we have good news: More and more people are turning to dermal fillers for acne scars, which use an injectable solution to fill in pits and wrinkles after acne has healed.
Do you want to say goodbye to stubborn stains? Below, learn everything you need to know about acne scar fillers, including insights from dermatologists and plastic surgeons.
Meet the Experts
Ruth McTighe, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at Waccamaw Dermatology in Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina.
Saami Khalifian, MD, is a double board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Som Aesthetics.
Steven Dayan, MD, is a double board-certified plastic surgeon at Impressions: Face + Body Center in Chicago.
Why Choose Fillers for Acne Scars?
Dermal fillers are an effective way to correct scars that occur after a breakout. With some dermal fillers, like hyaluronic acid, you can even see results immediately. “Using fillers is one of several ways to restore the morphology and function of the skin in acne scars,” Khalifian says. “However, it is important to note that using fillers to treat acne scars is an advanced treatment technique and is considered an off-label use of these products.”
If you are frustrated or self-conscious about your acne scars, fillers are a treatment option to consider. However, you should keep in mind that fillers are only suitable for certain types of acne scars: “Fillers can be used for acne scars that leave depressions or holes in the skin,” Khalifian says.
What fillers can treat acne scars?
Bellafill
Bellafill is an FDA-approved dermal filler for the long-term treatment of moderate or severe atrophic acne scars, which are indented scars.1 Bellafill fillers are only for people over the age of 21. They are made of bovine collagen obtained from cows and polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) beads.2 This type of filler works by supporting and adding volume to the skin.
Hyaluronic acid
Hyaluronic acid dermal fillers such as Juvederm and Restylane are fast-acting acne scar treatments. Board-certified dermatologist Ruth McTighe says these medications can temporarily increase volume and stimulate collagen production to improve depressed acne scars. “Combined with local anesthesia, the treatment is relatively painless, and you can leave the clinic and get results the same day,” says Khalifian.
Poly-L-lactic acid (Sculptra)
McTighe explains that poly-L-lactic acid (Sculptra) works gradually (meaning you won’t see results right away) to improve the appearance of acne scars by stimulating collagen production.
Radiesse
McTighe tells us that Radiesse is a calcium hydroxyapatite-based filler that adds volume to the skin immediately and boosts collagen production over time. Studies have shown it to be effective in treating depressed acne scars. “When diluted in a specific ratio, Radiesse can provide results faster than Sculptra because it provides an immediate lift and stimulates collagen and elastin over the long term,” Khalifian says.
Cost
Acne fillers vary in price, but typically cost between $600 and $1,200 per injection. “The number of injections and treatments required depends on the individual and the number of scars,” McTighe says. “Most fillers are temporary and can last anywhere from six months to two years, depending on the type of filler, the area being treated, and how quickly the body breaks down the filler.”
The Procedure
Before injecting a filler into your skin, consult with a physician who has experience injecting dermal fillers, such as a dermatologist. “Because this isn’t an ‘approved’ use filler, it may be harder to find a physician familiar with this treatment,” says Khalifian. “Also, the techniques used to treat acne scars are more complex than standard injection techniques, so they should be performed by a physician who has experience specifically treating acne scars with these products.” During your consultation, your physician will assess your acne scars, and you can ask questions about the cost of dermal fillers, expected risks, possible outcomes, and alternative treatment options.
Next, it’s time for the filler. “The treatment area is cleaned and a topical anesthetic cream is usually applied,” explains McTee. “The filler is then injected into the acne scar using a small needle or cannula. The appointment typically lasts 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the provider.”
Side Effects and Risks
Redness, bruising, or swelling may occur after the procedure, but these side effects are generally minor. It’s important to follow all of your doctor’s follow-up care instructions. “Filler injections are generally well tolerated, but as with any procedure, there are potential risks,” McTighe says. “These include injection site reactions such as redness, swelling, bruising, pain, bumps, skin discoloration, infection, and allergies.”
It’s also important to see an experienced doctor who can evaluate your skin and determine the best course of treatment for you. “While fillers are generally safe and carry minimal risks, it’s critical to choose an experienced physician,” says double-board certified plastic surgeon Steven Dayan. Be sure to tell your doctor about any allergies or sensitivities, and contact your doctor if you experience any signs of an adverse reaction.
Alternatives
While fillers can be an effective treatment for acne scars, they’re not the only option. Here are some alternatives your doctor may consider based on your budget, concerns, and scar severity.
Microneedling
Microdermabrasion
Chemical peels
Laser resurfacing
Fat grafting
Surgical options, such as subcision surgery
Sometimes your doctor will take a comprehensive approach, using two or more treatments to improve results, depending on your individual needs. “For those seeking more dramatic results, a combination of treatments is often recommended,” Dayan says. “Laser resurfacing and microdermabrasion combined with fat grafting are considered effective ways to achieve more substantial improvements in skin texture.”
Final Verdict
If you’re looking for a minimally invasive treatment for acne scars, dermal fillers are a good option. Dermal fillers are not FDA-approved for all types of acne scars, but are often used off-label to treat depressed scars. With some fillers, such as hyaluronic acid, the results are immediate, while others take longer to work. As with any treatment, it’s important to see a qualified specialist to learn more about this treatment and determine if it’s right for you.
