Acne scar treatment in Massapequa
Breakouts cleared up, but they left their mark: dips, pits and uneven texture that makeup can't hide. At Skin Space in Massapequa, we help clients across Long Island smooth acne scars with collagen-building treatments planned around your scar type and skin tone.
Also known as rolling scars, boxcar scars, ice pick scars, pitted scars and atrophic scars.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Jimenez, Medical Director. Last reviewed September 2026.
What acne scars are
Permanent changes in texture, not discoloration.
When a deep breakout heals, the skin sometimes can't rebuild all the collagen it lost. The surface sinks where support is missing, leaving an indented scar. These are called atrophic scars, and they're the most common kind of acne scarring.
Acne scars don't fade on their own the way dark marks do, but they can be softened. Treatment works by triggering the skin to build new collagen under the scar, which gradually lifts and smooths the surface. Most people have a mix of scar types, which is why the best results usually come from combining treatments.
Rolling scars
Wide, shallow dips with soft edges that give skin a wavy look, especially in side lighting.
Boxcar scars
Round or oval depressions with sharp, defined edges, like a small crater.
Ice pick scars
Narrow, deep pits that look like large open pores. The hardest type to treat.
Flat pink, red or brown marks aren't scars and usually respond to different treatments. See dark marks after acne. Scars that sit above the skin are covered in raised scars.
What causes it
Inflammation, and how long it lasts.
Acne scars form when inflammation from a breakout reaches deep enough to break down collagen. The deeper and longer the inflammation, the more likely a scar.
- Cystic and nodular acne, which sits deep in the skin and does the most damage as it heals.
- Picking and squeezing, which pushes inflammation deeper and tears the surrounding skin.
- Delayed treatment, since acne that stays active for months or years has more chances to scar.
- Genetics, because some people scar more easily than others, often following a family pattern.
- Natural collagen loss with age, which can make older scars look deeper over time.
Acne scar treatments at Skin Space
Your Skin Space provider will map your scar types and recommend a combination that suits your skin.
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Microneedling with Salmon DNA or PRP
Microneedling paired with polynucleotides (salmon DNA) or platelet-rich plasma from your own blood. The add-ons support healing and collagen building, which makes this a strong option for scarring.
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Microneedling
Fine needles create tiny channels in the skin that trigger collagen and elastin production, gradually lifting and smoothing indented scars.
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Laser Resurfacing
Laser energy removes or heats layers of damaged skin and drives deep collagen remodeling. It produces some of the most noticeable improvement for deeper scars.
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Tribella
A three-in-one treatment that combines nano-fractional resurfacing for texture with radiofrequency and light-based treatment, smoothing scars while evening tone.
Also used alongside these
- PRXA no-needle treatment that improves skin quality and texture between more intensive sessions.
- Face Reality Acne BootcampClears active breakouts first, so new scars don't form while you treat old ones.
What to expect at Skin Space
From your first visit in Massapequa to smoother skin.
Scar assessment
We look at your scars in different lighting, identify the types you have, and check that active acne is under control.
Your plan
Your provider recommends a combination of treatments and explains how many sessions to expect and the downtime for each.
Treatment series
Sessions are spaced about a month apart so your skin can rebuild collagen in between.
Ongoing improvement
Collagen keeps remodeling for months after your last session, so results continue to develop.
Supporting scar treatment at home
Protect the work your skin is doing.
- Wear sunscreen every day. Sun slows healing after treatment and can darken the skin around scars, making them more visible.
- Keep acne under control. New breakouts mean new scars, so stick with your acne routine while you treat scarring.
- Follow your aftercare. Use only the gentle products your provider recommends for the days after each session.
- Don't pick. Picking at breakouts or healing skin is the most preventable cause of new scars.
- Plan around Long Island summers. Beach days, boating and summer sports undo progress fast, so schedule your most intensive treatments for fall and winter and protect your results when the weather warms up.
When to see a dermatologist
Some scars need medical treatment alongside spa care.
Many acne scars respond well to treatment at Skin Space, but see a dermatologist or your doctor if you have:
- Active cystic acne that is still forming new scars
- Very deep ice pick scars, which may need procedures such as punch excision
- Raised, firm or growing scars, or a history of keloids
- Scars that are itchy, painful or changing
Medical procedures and in-spa treatments often work well together. The Skin Space team is glad to coordinate with your dermatologist.
Common questions
Can acne scars be removed completely?
Usually not completely, but most people see a meaningful improvement. Treatment softens and lifts scars so they're much less noticeable, especially in everyday lighting.
How many sessions will I need?
Most people need a series of three to six sessions, depending on the scar types and depth and which treatments you choose. Your provider will give you a realistic plan at your consultation.
Can I treat scars while I still have acne?
It's best to get active breakouts under control first. Some treatments can't be done over active acne, and new breakouts can create new scars.
Is microneedling or laser better for acne scars?
It depends on your scars and skin. Microneedling suits most skin tones and has less downtime, while laser resurfacing can do more for deeper scars. Many plans use both.
When will I see results?
Some smoothing shows within weeks, but the biggest change builds over three to six months as new collagen forms.
Where can I get acne scar treatment near Massapequa?
Skin Space is a med spa in Massapequa, NY, serving clients from across Long Island. Every plan starts with a consultation so we can look at your scars in person.
Reviewed by Dr. Jimenez
Medical Director at Skin Space in Massapequa, NY. This page was reviewed for medical accuracy in September 2026.
