Acne scars: understand your options
Scars and dark marks need different care. A doctor first checks your skin and whether acne is still active, then explains which options may help.
Fractional laser for selected acne scars. All session, recovery and cost ranges are general planning ranges, confirmed after consultation. Recovery varies with the method and settings.
Who it may suit
May suit adults with some settled, sunken acne scars. Scar depth, skin tone and healing history affect the choice. Some scars need another approach or a combination of treatments.
Who should wait or avoid it
Active breakouts, infection, a recent tan or irritated skin may need care first. Tell the doctor about pregnancy, cold sores, poor healing, raised scars and every medicine, including current or recent isotretinoin. Do not stop prescribed medicine yourself.
What happens on the day
The doctor reviews your skin, risks and consent. Skin is cleansed; numbing cream may be used. Protective eyewear is worn during laser treatment. You leave with written care and review advice.
Sessions and recovery time
Often 3–6 sessions, around 6–8 weeks apart; reviewed as your skin heals.
Plan for about 3–7 days of visible redness, dryness or flaking after fractional treatment. Stronger settings can need longer; redness may persist beyond this.
Possible side effects
Warmth, swelling and crusting can occur. Less common problems include infection, burns, lasting colour changes and new scarring. Darker skin needs careful assessment because pigment changes can follow treatment.
Aftercare and follow-up
Follow the doctor's cleansing and moisturising instructions. Do not pick or scrub. Avoid makeup until cleared. Use broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher and limit sun exposure. Attend the planned review.
Costs, explained before you decide
RM 650–1,200 per session — confirmed after consultation. The area, laser approach and care needed affect the fee.
Treatment may soften the appearance of scars over time. It cannot erase every scar, and improvement varies.
Questions you may have
Will one visit be enough?
Usually a series and review are needed. The doctor explains what is realistic for your scar type.
Can I treat scars while I still have acne?
The doctor will usually address active acne first to reduce new inflammation and scars.
Can I return straight to work?
You may feel able to work, but redness or flaking can be visible. Allow recovery time and follow your doctor's advice.
Not sure where to start?
Book a 20 minute consultation.
Talk through your concern, the choices and the costs. Then take your time.
- 20 minutes with a doctor
- Consultation RM 80
- No treatment purchase required