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Acne Scarring Treatment in Thames Ditton
Acne scarring can linger long after active breakouts have settled, affecting how smooth and even your skin looks and how confident you feel. At Thames Dental & Skin in Thames Ditton, Surrey, Dr Bravis offers tailored treatments to soften acne scars, improve texture and help your skin look clearer and more refined over time.
Common types of acne scars
You may have one or more of the following:
- Shallow, uneven depressions in the skin (often called rolling scars)
- Small, deeper “ice-pick” marks
- Slightly raised or firm areas where spots have healed
- Red or brown marks that linger after breakouts (post-inflammatory marks)
The type and depth of scarring you have will influence which treatments are likely to work best for your skin
What causes acne scarring?
Acne scars form when inflammation from spots damages the deeper layers of the skin. When the skin heals, it can either lose some tissue (leading to indented scars) or produce too much collagen (leading to raised scars).
The risk of scarring is higher when:
- Acne is severe, cystic or long-lasting
- Spots are picked, squeezed or scratched
- Acne is not treated effectively early on
This is why combining good acne control with targeted scar treatments can give the best long-term results.
Can acne scars be completely removed?
Most acne scars cannot be completely removed, but they can usually be softened and made much less noticeable. The goal is smoother, more even-looking skin rather than perfection.
Improvement is often gradual and may involve a course of treatments. During your consultation in Thames Ditton, Dr Bravis will give you an honest idea of what can be achieved for your particular skin and scarring pattern.
When to see a skin specialist at Thames Dental & Skin
You may benefit from an acne scarring consultation if:
- Your acne has mostly settled but scars remain
- Makeup no longer hides uneven texture or marks
- You feel self-conscious about how your skin looks in certain lights
- You are unsure which treatments are safe or worthwhile for your skin type
You can book a skin consultation online in Thames Ditton or contact us to speak to our reception team about the most suitable appointment.
How acne scarring is assessed at Thames Dental & Skin
At your appointment, Dr Bravis will:
- Examine your skin in good light to assess the type and depth of scars
- Look for any ongoing active acne that may also need treating
- Consider your skin tone, sensitivity and any history of pigmentation issues
This detailed assessment helps build a realistic, step-by-step treatment plan that suits your skin and lifestyle, and reduces the risk of unwanted side effects such as post-treatment pigmentation.
Acne scarring treatment options in Thames Ditton
Treatment is always personalised and may combine in-clinic procedures with a structured home routine. Depending on your skin, options may include:
- Personalised medical-grade skincare via GetHarley – to support skin repair, improve tone and texture, and help manage any remaining breakouts. Your routine is designed by Dr Bravis and delivered through GetHarley so you know exactly what to use.
- Chemical skin peels – to gently resurface the skin, fade post-inflammatory marks and refine texture over a course of treatments.
- Microneedling RF (Profound) – combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy to stimulate collagen in the deeper layers of the skin, helping to soften indented acne scars and improve firmness.
- LED light therapy (Celluma) – to calm any residual inflammation and support healing between more intensive treatments.
In some cases, treatment for active acne will be recommended alongside scar management so that new breakouts do not undo your progress.
Looking after skin with acne scars
Skin that has scarring can be more prone to sensitivity and pigmentation, especially after treatments. Using the right skincare and daily sun protection is essential to protect results and reduce the risk of new marks.
As part of your plan in Thames Ditton, you will receive clear guidance on how to look after your skin at home, which products to avoid, and how to gradually introduce any active ingredients recommended via GetHarley so your skin can tolerate them well.
Why choose Thames Dental & Skin for acne scarring treatment in Thames Ditton?
Thames Dental & Skin offers doctor-led, evidence-based care for acne and acne scarring. Dr Bravis combines advanced technologies such as microneedling RF and LED with tailored GetHarley skincare routines to achieve steady, natural-looking improvements in texture and tone.
From our clinic on Portsmouth Road in Thames Ditton (KT7 0XX), we welcome patients from across Surrey who want to address acne scarring in a thoughtful, staged way rather than with one-off quick fixes. You can book a skin consultation online or contact us to discuss your concerns with our friendly team.
Ready to book a consultation?
Whether you are exploring treatment for fine lines, established wrinkles, or seeking expert advice on subtle facial rejuvenation, Thames Dental & Skin provides a careful, medical approach focused on natural movement and expression.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can acne scars go away on their own?
Most acne scars do not fully disappear on their own, especially deeper or indented scars. However, they can gradually fade and become less noticeable over time. Professional treatments can significantly improve their appearance.
What is the best treatment for acne scarring?
The best treatment depends on the type and severity of your scars. Options such as microneedling RF, chemical peels, LED therapy and medical-grade skincare are often combined for optimal results.
How many sessions will I need for acne scar treatment?
Most people require a course of treatments rather than a single session. The exact number will depend on your skin type, the depth of scarring and how your skin responds over time.
Is acne scar treatment painful?
Most treatments are well tolerated. Some, like microneedling RF, may involve mild discomfort, but numbing creams and careful techniques are used to keep you comfortable.
How long does it take to see results from acne scar treatment?
You may start to notice improvements within a few weeks, but more visible results typically develop over several months as collagen production increases and the skin renews itself.
Can all skin types be treated for acne scarring?
Yes, but treatment plans are carefully adjusted based on your skin tone and sensitivity to reduce the risk of pigmentation or irritation.
Will acne scars come back after treatment?
Treated scars do not return, but new scars can form if active acne continues. This is why managing ongoing breakouts is an important part of your treatment plan.
Do I need to stop my skincare before treatment?
You may be advised to pause certain active ingredients before some procedures. Your clinician will guide you on exactly what to use and avoid before and after treatment.
Is there downtime after acne scar treatments?
Downtime varies depending on the treatment. Some options have minimal recovery, while others may involve a few days of redness or sensitivity.
When should I consider treatment for acne scars?
You can consider treatment once active acne is mostly under control. Early intervention can help prevent scars from becoming more noticeable over time.
