Many people struggle with acne well beyond their teenage years—not because of active breakouts, but because of the marks they leave behind. Stubborn acne scars and dark spots often linger for years, making skin look uneven no matter how many creams or serums you try.
In Greater Vancouver, including cities like Burnaby, Vancouver and Richmond, this is a common concern among patients who visit medical aesthetics clinics. The question we hear most often is:
👉 “Why won’t my acne scars go away, and which treatment works better—laser or microneedling?”
Today, let’s dive into the science behind acne scars, why skincare products are often not enough, and how treatments like PicoWay® laser, fractional resurfacing, and microneedling can truly make a difference.
The Science Behind Acne Scars and Dark Marks
Not all acne marks are the same. To understand why they are so hard to treat, let’s break them down:
- Post-inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)
- These are the dark or red marks left behind after a pimple heals.
- Caused by excess melanin production or dilated blood vessels.
- Common in patients with medium to darker skin tones.
- Acne Scars (Textural Damage)
- Unlike surface-level dark marks, acne scars occur when the skin’s dermis layer is damaged.
- Collagen breakdown creates permanent indentations known as “ice pick,” “rolling,” or “boxcar” scars.
- These scars cannot be corrected by skincare products because the issue lies deep below the skin’s surface.
👉 This is why many people in Burnaby or Vancouver tell us: “I’ve used brightening serums for years, but my scars never improved.” Topical skincare can help pigmentation but cannot rebuild lost collagen.
Why Skincare Products Often Fall Short
- Barrier Limitations: Most products only work on the epidermis (outer skin layer).
- Structural Damage: Acne scars involve the dermis, requiring deeper treatment.
- Temporary Results: Serums may lighten hyperpigmentation, but results are usually mild and inconsistent.
That’s why dermatologists and medical aesthetics providers in Vancouver and Burnaby often recommend combining energy-based treatments (like lasers) or collagen-stimulating therapies (like microneedling) for more visible results.
Treatment Options for Acne Scars
1. Laser Treatments
Laser therapy uses controlled wavelengths of light energy to target pigmentation, blood vessels, and collagen.
Popular options include:
- PicoWay® Laser – Great for dark marks and pigmentation issues.
- Fractional Resurfacing (Fraxel, CO2, or Venus Viva™) – Penetrates deep into the dermis to remodel scar tissue.
- MOXI™ and BBL™ (Broadband Light) – Improves overall skin tone, redness, and early scars.
Pros: Fast results, suitable for both pigmentation and textural scars.
Cons: May involve downtime (1–5 days depending on intensity) and are generally more expensive.
2. Microneedling
Microneedling (also known as collagen induction therapy) uses tiny sterile needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin. This process stimulates collagen and elastin production, which gradually fills in scars and improves texture.
- Works well for rolling and boxcar scars.
- Can be combined with PRP (platelet-rich plasma) or serums to boost results.
Pros: Minimal downtime, safe for most skin types (including sensitive skin in Burnaby’s humid climate).
Cons: Gradual results—usually requires 3–6 sessions. Less effective for deep pigmentation.
Laser vs Microneedling: Which One Works Better?
| Factor | Laser | Microneedling |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Dark spots, pigmentation, deep scars | Textural scars, pores, mild wrinkles |
| Results Timeline | Faster—improvement after 1–3 sessions | Gradual—improvement over 3–6 sessions |
| Downtime | Moderate (redness/peeling for a few days) | Mild (1–2 days of redness) |
| Cost in Vancouver/Burnaby | Higher per session | More affordable |
| Skin Type Suitability | Effective but must be adjusted for darker tones | Safe for most skin types |
👉 Simple takeaway:
- If your main concern is dark marks or pigmentation, lasers like PicoWay® or BBL™ are often the first choice.
- If your main concern is textural scars and enlarged pores, microneedling is an excellent option.
- Many patients in Richmond and Vancouver benefit from combination therapy (Laser + Microneedling) for comprehensive results.
What to Expect Before and After Treatment
- Consultation First: Your provider will examine whether you have pigmentation, textural scars, or both.
- Sun Protection: Sun exposure before or after treatment can worsen pigmentation—SPF is a must.
- Multiple Sessions: Lasting results often require a series of treatments.
- Professional Care: Always choose a licensed provider in Burnaby or Vancouver for safety and effectiveness.
Choosing the Right Approach in Greater Vancouver
In the Greater Vancouver area, including Burnaby and Richmond, patients often ask: “Which treatment should I pick?”
- Teen/Young Adults: Usually deal with post-acne dark marks → PicoWay® laser recommended.
- Adults 25–35: Combination of scars + enlarged pores → Microneedling + PRP.
- Adults 30+: Complex scarring + pigmentation → Fractional laser + Microneedling combo.
The most effective plan is rarely a single treatment—it’s about tailoring the right combination for your skin condition.
Final Thoughts: Science, Not Guesswork
Acne scars don’t have to be permanent. The key is understanding what type of scars you have and choosing a treatment that targets the root cause.
Whether you live in Vancouver, Burnaby, or Richmond, advanced medical aesthetics treatments such as laser therapy and microneedling have helped countless patients regain smoother, more confident skin.
At R•Medy Aesthetics, our experienced physicians and registered nurses design personalized treatment plans based on your unique skin condition—whether you need pigmentation correction, scar remodeling, or overall skin rejuvenation.
✨ Because when it comes to acne scars, science—not just skincare—makes the difference.
📍 Convenient Location – 6050 Silver Drive Burnaby, BC V5H 0H5.
👭 Meet the team who works behind the scene
📅 Monday – Sunday 10 am – 6:00 pm
📞 Call us now to book your consultation – English(604) 416-4816, Chinese(604) 416-4817