For many of our patients at Integrated Dermatology of Fairfax, the goal isn't just to clear active breakouts — it’s to preserve the smooth, healthy texture of their skin for the long term.

Understanding Acne and Scarring

Dealing with acne is frustrating enough, but the lingering scars it can leave behind often feel like a permanent reminder of the struggle. For many of our patients at Integrated Dermatology of Fairfax, the goal isn't just to clear active breakouts—it’s to preserve the smooth, healthy texture of their skin for the long term.

If you are struggling with persistent breakouts or are worried about "pitting" and dark marks, this guide will help you understand how acne scars form and how our board-certified team in Fairfax, Virginia, can help you restore your complexion.

Why Does Acne Leave Scars?

Scars are the body’s natural way of "patching" an injury. When a pore becomes deeply engorged with excess oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria, the follicle wall can rupture.

Atrophic Scars (Depressed): If the body produces too little collagen during the healing process, depressions like ice pick, boxcar, or rolling scars form.
Hypertrophic Scars (Raised): If the body produces too much collagen, it creates a raised, firm bump, often seen on the back or chest.
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH): These are the flat red or brown marks left after a blemish. While not "true" scars, they can take months to fade without professional help.

How to Prevent Acne Scars Before They Start

The most cost-effective way to manage acne scarring is to prevent it from happening in the first place.

Stop the "Squeeze": Picking or popping a pimple pushes bacteria and inflammation deeper into the dermis, significantly increasing the risk of a permanent scar.
Early Intervention: The longer acne remains inflamed, the higher the chance of tissue loss. Treating "minor" acne now can prevent the need for expensive laser surgery later.
Sun Protection is Key: UV exposure darkens existing marks and slows down the skin's ability to heal. We recommend a broad-spectrum SPF 30 daily, even on cloudy days in Virginia.
Professional Extractions: If you have stubborn blackheads or cysts, let a medical professional handle them in a sterile environment to minimize trauma to the skin.

Advanced Acne Scar Treatments in Fairfax

At Integrated Dermatology of Fairfax, we utilize a multi-modal approach to scar revision. Since most patients have a combination of scar types, we customize a plan that may include:

Microneedling (Collagen Induction Therapy): Using the specialized Strata MicroPen, we create controlled micro-injuries to stimulate your skin’s natural collagen production, smoothing out depressions.
Chemical Peels: Ideal for resurfacing the top layers of skin and fading stubborn pigmentation.
Dermal Fillers: For deep rolling or boxcar scars, fillers can provide immediate volume to "lift" the skin back to the surface.
Fractional Erbium Laser: This advanced laser therapy targets damaged tissue to promote the growth of new, healthy skin cells.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

You don't have to live with the "aftermath" of acne. Whether you are currently dealing with active breakouts or looking to erase years of scarring, our expert team of board-certified dermatologists and physician assistants is here to help.

Practice Name: Integrated Dermatology of Fairfax

Location: 10680 Main Street, Suite 200, Fairfax, VA 22030

Phone Number: 703-352-2620

Schedule an Appointment: Click Here to Book Online