Everything You Need to Know About Fillers for Treating Acne Scars

Filler for Acne Scars: Everything to Know About the Minimally Invasive Treatment

An acne scar is like the guest who you never invited to your party, but shows up anyway. After a pimple heals, your skin doesn’t always bounce back to how it looked before, and instead you end up with a mark that’s red, raised, pitted, or even discolored. “It happens when your skin tries to repair itself, but doesn’t quite do it perfectly,” says double-board-certified dermatologist and Mohs micrographic surgeon Saami Khalifian, MD. If you’ve ever wondered if there’s anything you can do, we have good news: Increasingly, people are turning to dermal fillers for acne scars, using the injectable solution to fill depressions and grooves after a pimple heals.

Trying to wave goodbye to stubborn marks? Ahead, learn all you need to know about fillers for acne scars, complete with 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 micrographic surgeon at Som Aesthetics.

Steven Dayan, MD, is a double-board-certified plastic surgeon at Impressions Chicago: Face + Body.

Why Choose Fillers for Acne Scars?

Dermal fillers are a helpful way to correct scars that appear after a breakout. With some dermal fillers such as hyaluronic acid, you might even see results right away. “Using filler is a one of several ways to restore form and function to acne-scarred skin,” Khalifian says. “It is important to note, however, that using filler for acne scars does represent an advanced treatment technique and is considered an off-label use of these products.”

If you’re feeling frustrated or self-conscious about your acne scars, fillers are a treatment option to consider. But you’ll want to keep in mind that fillers only work on certain types of acne scars: “Fillers can be used for acne scars that have left a depression or pit in the skin,” Khalifian says.

What Fillers Are Available to Treat Acne Scars?

Bellafill

Bellafill is a type of dermal filler that’s FDA-approved for the long-term treatment of moderate or severe atrophic acne scars, which are indented scars.1 Bellafill fillers are only available to people over the age of 21. They’re made from bovine collagen, which is sourced from cows, and polymethyl methacrylate (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. These work by temporarily increasing volume and stimulating collagen production to improve depressed acne scars, says board-certified dermatologist Ruth McTighe. “The treatment is fairly painless when used with topical numbing agents, and you can walk out of the clinic with results the same day,” Khalifian says.

Poly-L-Lactic Acid (Sculptra)

Poly-L-lactic acid (Sculptra) works gradually (meaning you won’t see results instantly) to improve the appearance of acne scars by stimulating collagen production, McTighe explains.

Radiesse

Radiesse is a calcium hydroxylapatite-based filler that immediately enhances the volume of skin and promotes collagen production over time, McTighe tells us. Research shows that it’s effective for the treatment of depressed acne scars. “When Radiesse is diluted to specific ratios, it can provide a more immediate result than Sculptra, since it gives an immediate lift as well as collagen and elastin stimulation long term,” Khalifian says.

The Cost

Acne fillers vary in price, but they often range from $600 to $1200 per syringe of filler. “The number of syringes and treatment sessions needed depends on the individual and the quantity of scars,” McTighe says. “Most fillers are temporary, lasting from six months to two years, depending on the type of filler, the treatment area, and how quickly the individual’s body breaks it down.”

The Procedure

Before getting any fillers injected into your skin, you’ll have a consultation with a healthcare provider experienced in dermal filler injections, such as a dermatologist. “Because this is not an “on-label” use for fillers, it may be harder to find a provider who is comfortable with the treatment,” Khalifian says. “Furthermore, the techniques employed for acne scars are more nuanced than a standard injection technique, and therefore should be performed by providers with experience in using these products specifically to treat acne scars.” At your consultation, your doctor will assess your acne scars, and you can ask questions about dermal filler costs, what to expect, risks, potential outcomes, and alternative treatment options.

Next, it’s time for the filler. “The treatment area will be cleansed, and typically, a topical numbing cream will be applied,” McTighe explains. “The filler is then injected into the acne scars using a small needle or cannula. Appointments generally last 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the provider.”

Side Effects and Risks

You might experience redness, bruising, or swelling after the procedure, but these side effects tend to be minimal. It’s important to follow any instructions your doctor provides regarding aftercare. “The injection of filler is typically 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, bluish discoloration of the skin, infection, and hypersensitivity.”

It’s also important to see an experienced healthcare practitioner who can assess your skin and come up with the best approach for you. “While fillers are generally safe with few risks, selecting an experienced practitioner is crucial,” says double-board-certified plastic surgeon Steven Dayan. Be sure to let your provider know if you have any allergies or sensitivities, and contact them for advice if any signs of a bad reaction pop up.

Alternatives

While fillers can be a helpful way to treat acne scars, they aren’t your only option. Below are a few alternatives that your provider may consider, depending on your budget, concerns, and the severity of the scars.

Microneedling

Microdermabrasion

Chemical peels

Laser resurfacing

Fat transplant

Surgical options like subcision

Sometimes, your provider will take a combination approach, using two or more treatment methods to improve results, based on your individual needs. “For those looking for more significant results, a combination of treatments is often recommended,” Dayan says. “Laser resurfacing and dermabrasion, coupled with fat transfer, are highlighted as effective methods for achieving more substantial improvements in skin texture.”

The Final Takeaway

If you’re looking for a minimally invasive acne scar treatment, dermal fillers are a solid option. Dermal fillers aren’t FDA-approved for all types of acne scars, but they’re often prescribed off-label to treat depressed scars. With some types of fillers, like hyaluronic acid, people see results right away, while others take time to work. As with any treatment, it’s important to see a qualified specialist to learn more about this treatment approach and find out if it’s a good option for you.

DQH Knowledge drop: In your 20s, your skin cell turnover decreases. (Cell turnover is a key component in keeping your skin youthful.) You know what else slows down? Your collagen production. Starting in your 20s, collagen decreases by about 1 percent per year. Should you want to prevent fine lines and wrinkles, start by eliminating behaviors that contribute to premature aging. “If it’s bad for you, it’s bad for your skin,” says dermatologist Michel Somenek. “Cigarette smoking reduces blood flow to the skin and causes premature wrinkling and a dull skin texture. Making the repeated pursed motion to inhale can also cause smoker’s lines. Alcohol and recreational drugs are toxins for the skin that damage its cellular structure and DNA,” Somenek tells us. “The faster you eliminate vices while you are young, the better chance your skin and body have to recuperate.” Also, adopting an anti-aging routine in your 20s is key. After all, the best offense is a good defense. We spoke to Somenek and experts Joshua Ross and Audrey Kunin to find out more. Keep reading for the best anti-aging products for your 20s, according to skincare professionals. Sunscreen “We all know that the sun is the number one cause of skin aging and starting the prevention in your 20s is very important,” Ross says. “The majority of your sun damage won’t start to appear until you’re in your 30s, so don’t wait until you see it surface or you’ll be behind the curve. Stay ahead of it with a good-quality zinc-based sunscreen worn daily.” Farmacy Green Defense Daily Mineral Sunscreen An invisible sunscreen with SPF 30, plus botanical extracts meant to protect skin with tons of antioxidants. Bonus: It’s clean and fine to use under makeup. Bareminerals Complexion Rescue™ Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Although we recommend you use your SPF and moisturizer separately, we also understand moments when you don’t have time or energy for that extra step. For those times, this bareMinerals moisturizer is a great thing to have on hand. Vitamin C Serum “A great introduction to anti-aging is to start with a vitamin C serum in your morning skincare routine,” Ross says. “It’s a powerful antioxidant that will neutralize free radicals and brighten the skin.” He adds that it’s a great way to counteract the effects of the sun’s harmful rays, which, as previously mentioned, are among the biggest causes of premature aging. Drunk Elephant C-Firma™ Vitamin C Day Serum The Drunk Elephant C-Firma is a lightweight serum that promises to give skin a glow by combining the brightening powers of vitamin C with ferulic acid, l-ascorbic acid, and vitamin E. The included sodium hyaluronate is meant to replace hydration loss, so you shouldn’t have to deal with any irritation. Sunday Riley C.E.O. Rapid Flash Brightening Serum This potent serum is jam-packed with vitamin C (15 percent, to be exact), which means it’s a potential superstar at both brightening skin and dousing it in antioxidants. Peptides Using peptides on your skin has many benefits, says Somenek. “The skin barrier is what defends the body against pollution, UV rays, bacteria, and toxins. It can be damaged by several everyday factors. Using topical peptides aids in building a stronger barrier,” he says. “Peptides comprise elastic fibers, which are a type of protein. These fibers help to make skin appear taut and firm. Peptides can also help repair damaged skin, relieve inflammation, and even out skin tone. Some peptides can kill acne-causing bacteria that is common in 20-somethings.” Kunin agrees, saying, “Peptides are an excellent entry point for supporting collagen.” She recommends looking for face and eye treatments that contain these collagen-boosting powerhouses. Charlotte Tilbury Magic Eye Rescue Cream This Charlotte Tilbury super-emollient eye cream has a base of coconut oil and shea butter (read: it’s incredibly hydrating). Botanicals plus peptides are meant to help reduce dark circles and boost collagen, respectively. This creamy moisturizer serves up potent collagen-boosting peptides and pycnogenol, and antioxidant-rich vitamin C. “Instead of sitting on top of the skin, peptides penetrate the outer layer so they go deep. The ‘signals’ they send tell the cells to produce elastin and collagen, which are needed for youthful-looking skin,” explains Somenek. At-Home Peel Pads Remember that skin cell turnover fiasco we talked about earlier? One way to help support it is by exfoliating. “Exfoliation is important to help keep skin fresh and luminous,” Kunin says. She recommends using at-home peel pads as an easy and effective way to exfoliate. “The goal in your 20s is to fight the slowing pace of cell turnover. It is wise to use products that gently exfoliate, yet still remove oil and other impurities. Products that have Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) or Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA) are a good choice.” According to Somenek, you should only exfoliate two to three times a week. “People of all ages are guilty of over-exfoliating and that can be too much of a good thing,” he says. Dermadoctor Kakadu C Intensive Vitamin C Peel Pad A few swipes of this Derma Doctor powerful peel pad promise to leave your skin glowing and smooth, thanks to the seven (yes, seven) types of chemical exfoliants, including AHA and BHA. It also contains vitamin C via Kakadu plum extract for added brightening and antioxidant protection. KEY INGREDIENTS Kakadu plum extract is sourced from the Kakadu plum, a fruit grown in northern Australia. It contains vitamin C, which restores the skin’s natural barrier, increases collagen production, and soothes irritation. Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta® Universal Daily Peel Pads These are the gold standard of peel pads, with a cult following and over 900 five-star reviews on Sephora. They’re easy to use and contain a blend of anti-aging exfoliating acids. Emollient Night Cream “In your 20s, you need to start upping the hydration in your skincare routine. You may have been cautious of over-moisturizing because of acne in your teens, but as you enter your 20s, your skin transitions and becomes drier,” Ross says. “I recommend an emollient night cream added into your evening skincare regimen.” “Twenty-somethings need to make sure that they are not using creams that will clog their pores and cause excess oil production,” says Somenek. Opt for non-comedogenic products. Cerave Skin Renewing Night Cream One great choice is the CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream, which is a non-comedogenic night cream that leaves skin soft and glowy. It combines the moisturizing powers of ceramides and hyaluronic acid. RoC Retinol Correxion Max Hydration Creme “The best night cream ingredients contain retinol, benzoyl peroxide, and/or salicylic acid or hyaluronic acid. The goal is to moisturize, yet remove excess oil,” says Somenek. This Roc Retinol Correxion cream fits the bill as it contains both hyaluronic acid and retinol so it promises to moisturize while also being non-comedogenic.

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