Check out this article to discover some of the main myths and truths about acne scars and clear up any doubts you may have on the topic!
Acne scars are a serious issue that not only affect skin health but also have a significant impact on the well-being and self-esteem of both men and women of all ages, especially teenagers.
With that in mind, we’ve gathered some myths and truths about acne scars so you can stay informed. Take a look!
Quem Somos?
O Dr. Waldemar H. Szerman é dermatologista e uma referência no Rio de Janeiro quando se trata de cuidados com a pele. Com mais de meio século de atuação na dermatologia, formado pela Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (UERJ), o Dr. Szerman possui uma carreira sólida e respeitada, tendo sido ex-chefe do serviço de dermatologia da aeronáutica.
Em 1969, fundou a Clínica de Pele, unindo sua vasta experiência médica à tecnologia de ponta para oferecer tratamentos dermatológicos com excelência no Rio de Janeiro. Desde então, a clínica se tornou sinônimo de tradição, inovação e confiança, sendo reconhecida como uma das melhores do estado.
Na Clínica de Pele, todos os procedimentos são realizados exclusivamente por médicos, com formação especializada em instituições reconhecidas.
Acreditamos que os melhores resultados vêm da união entre ética, produtos de alta qualidade, capacitação técnica e experiência dos profissionais que irão realizar o tratamento.
Em tempos em que os procedimentos estéticos têm sido amplamente banalizados, reforçamos nosso compromisso com a segurança, o conhecimento médico e a ética profissional.
Os Drs. Guilherme Szerman e Ronaldo Szerman são médicos com mais de 20 anos de experiência, formados pela conceituada Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), consistentemente reconhecida entre as melhores faculdades de medicina do Brasil.
Somos uma clínica dermatológica no Rio de Janeiro, com mais de 50 anos de tradição e certamente uma das melhores nesse tratamento.
Teremos um imenso prazer em atendê-lo!
1- Myths and Truths About Acne Scars – What Acne Scars Really Look Like

Truth. When patients ask for treatment for acne marks, they are actually referring to scars—deep skin alterations that compromise its structure and create a highly negative aesthetic effect.
2- Popping pimples increases the chances of scarring
Truth. Popping pimples is extremely harmful to the skin. Besides intensifying inflammation, it introduces more bacteria and dirt, further damaging the skin and increasing the risk of deep scars.
3- Treating acne doesn’t prevent or reduce the chances of scarring
Myth. Proper acne treatment should begin as early as possible. This helps prevent and significantly reduce the risk of lasting scars.
4- Acne scars are the same for everyone
Myth. Acne scars vary greatly from person to person. There are two main types:
- Hypertrophic scars, which appear raised and firm.
- Atrophic scars, which create depressions in the skin.
Since acne affects each individual differently, the type and severity of scarring also vary from person to person. Therefore, the best treatment should be tailored to each case.

4- Myths and Truths About Acne Scars – Is Laser the Best Treatment for Acne Scars?
Truth. Treating acne scars is not an easy task, and the best results are achieved through deep laser treatments. The fractional and pulsed CO2 laser we use stands out in this regard, delivering effective results with greater safety.
When necessary and indicated, other treatments, such as subcision, can be combined with laser therapy.
5- Laser Treatment Results Are Very Satisfactory
Truth. While it’s not possible to achieve completely flawless skin, laser treatments provide significant improvements, helping patients regain their self-esteem.
6- CO2 Laser Leaves the Skin Severely Damaged
Myth. Today, advanced technology is incorporated into CO2 laser treatments. The equipment we use emits the laser in pulses, minimizing surface damage while delivering deeper results. This way, the skin doesn’t suffer excessive trauma and fully recovers within 4 to 5 days.
7- Myths and Truths About Acne Scars – Is CO2 Laser for Acne Scars Very Painful?
Myth. To minimize discomfort, we apply a medical-grade anesthetic cream one hour before the procedure. Additionally, we use a cold air device to cool the skin during the session, making the experience much more comfortable for patients.
8- Can All Types of Acne Scars Be Completely Removed?
Myth. Treating acne scars is not simple, and most treatments do not yield good results.
However, some advanced treatments provide highly satisfactory outcomes. In particular, the Deca CO2 laser represents a significant breakthrough in deep acne scar treatment, effectively softening scars and improving overall skin quality.
9- Home Treatments for Acne Scars Are Not Effective
Truth. No at-home treatment is strong enough to effectively improve acne scars.
The most efficient treatments must be performed by a medical professional in a clinical setting.
Contact:
Clínica de Pele is a traditional and specialized dermatological clinic in Rio de Janeiro for over 60 years, since 1969.
Dr. Szerman has over 20 years of experience and teaches other doctors.
