Acne scars can be stubborn and emotionally frustrating, especially when they linger long after breakouts are gone. The time it takes for acne scars to fade depends on various factors such as scar type, depth, skin tone, lifestyle habits, and the treatment method you choose.

In this blog, we’ll discuss how long acne scars take to fade, what treatments help remove them, how many sessions you may need, and natural remedies that can assist in improving their appearance.

Advanced Acne Scar Treatments

Today, dermatology offers multiple advanced procedures that significantly improve acne scars. The number of sessions and results depend on your scar type, severity, and how your skin responds.

1. Laser Resurfacing / Laser Toning

Laser treatments target deep layers of skin, stimulating collagen production to smooth irregular texture.

• Sessions required: 3–6 sessions
  

• Results visible: 6–12 weeks
  

• Works well for boxcar, rolling, and mild ice-pick scars
  
  

2. Microneedling / Derma Roller / RF Microneedling

Microneedling creates micro-injuries to boost collagen and remodel scar tissue.

• Sessions required: 3–6 sessions
  

• Results visible: 8–12 weeks
  

• Good for rolling and boxcar scars
  
  

3. Chemical Peels

Chemical peels exfoliate the surface layer of skin, improving pigmentation and texture.

• Sessions required: 3–6 sessions
  

• Results visible: 4–6 weeks
  

• Best for superficial scars and pigmentation
  
  

4. Subcision

A treatment where a needle is inserted under the scar to break scar bands holding it down.

• Sessions required: 1–3 sessions
  

• Results visible: 4–8 weeks
  

• Ideal for deep rolling scars
  
  

5. Dermal Fillers

Fillers lift depressed acne scars temporarily by adding volume.

• Sessions required: Usually 1, longevity 6–12 months
  

• Results visible: Immediate
  
  

6. TCA Cross

Targeted application of TCA acid helps rebuild collagen from inside the scar.

• Sessions required: 2–4 sessions
  

• Results visible: 8–12 weeks
  

• Best for ice-pick scars
  
  

If you’re looking for professional care, it’s best to consult a skin specialist. You can consider visiting the

best dermatologist for acne scar treatment to understand which therapy suits you best.

How Long Do Acne Scars Take to Fade Naturally?

Not all scars are permanent. Some fade over time without treatment, especially if they are mild.

Pigmentation-related scars fade faster; however, deep pitted scars typically need clinical intervention.

Factors That Influence Healing Time

• Scar type (pitted vs pigmented)
  

• Depth & severity
  

• Skin type & collagen production
  

• Sun exposure
  

• Lifestyle & diet
  

• Post-acne care routine
  
  

The more severe the scar, the longer it takes to see results.

Natural Ways to Help Acne Scars Fade

While natural remedies cannot completely remove scars—especially deeper ones—they can help lighten pigmentation and improve texture over time.

1. Aloe Vera

Helps soothe, hydrate, and repair the skin barrier. Use fresh aloe daily.

2. Vitamin C

Brightens dark spots and supports collagen production.

3. Retinoids (OTC)

Improve cell turnover and lighten mild scarring.

4. Gentle Exfoliation

AHAs/BHAs help remove dull skin and stimulate renewal.

5. Sunscreen

Prevents darkening of spots and protects skin from damage.

Note: Natural methods show slow results and cannot remove deep scars.

Which Acne Scars Fade the Fastest?

• Pigmented scars (PIH/PIE) fade faster
  

• Atrophic/pitted scars take longer and need medical treatment
  
  

When Should You See a Dermatologist?

You should seek professional help if:
 

• Scars are deep & pitted

• Hyperpigmentation is persistent

• Over-the-counter products aren’t helping

• Scars affect confidence

A dermatologist will create a custom plan combining treatments for the best results.

Conclusion

Acne scars can take:

• 3–12 months to fade naturally (pigmented scars)
  

• Pitted scars are mostly permanent without treatment
  
  

Advanced procedures—like laser, chemical peels, microneedling, subcision, fillers, and TCA Cross—can significantly improve scars within 2–6 months, depending on severity and treatment frequency.

Natural remedies can help improve skin health and fade dark spots, but deeper scars require professional intervention.

To achieve safe and effective results, consult a specialist for personalised acne scar treatment options.