Acne Scar Treatment in Brookline: Why Fillers May Be Right for You
Clemens Face + Body | Brookline, Boston
Acne scars—especially deep, atrophic ones like rolling or boxcar scars—can leave lasting marks on both the skin and self-confidence. While there’s no one-size-fits-all solution for scar revision, dermal fillers have emerged as a powerful, minimally invasive option for improving skin texture and restoring volume loss associated with scarring.
At Clemens Face + Body in Brookline, Boston, we specialize in using advanced dermal filler techniques to help patients achieve smoother, healthier-looking skin. In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of using dermal fillers for acne scars, how hyaluronic acid (HA) plays a vital role in skin hydration, and how we often combine fillers with subcision to maximize results.
Why Acne Scars Form
Acne scars develop when inflammatory acne lesions damage the deeper layers of the skin. Once the inflammation heals, the body attempts to repair itself—but it doesn’t always restore the skin’s original texture. This can lead to depressions or indentations in the skin, especially in areas like the cheeks or temples.
There are different types of acne scars, but atrophic scars—such as rolling, boxcar, and icepick scars—are the most commonly treated with dermal fillers.
How Dermal Fillers Help with Acne Scars
Dermal fillers work by replenishing lost volume beneath the surface of the skin. When placed strategically under atrophic scars, fillers help lift and smooth out indentations, creating a more even skin texture.
The benefits include:
Immediate improvement in scar depth and appearance
Non-surgical and minimal downtime
Results that can last several months to over a year, depending on the type of filler used
Fillers are especially effective for rolling scars, which tend to have softer, sloping edges that respond well to volume restoration.
The Role of Hyaluronic Acid in Skin Hydration
Many dermal fillers used in acne scar treatment are composed of hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the body known for its ability to retain moisture and promote plumpness in the skin. When used as a filler, HA not only restores lost volume but also improves the overall hydration and resilience of the skin.
This added hydration can make the skin appear smoother, more radiant, and less textured—complementing the mechanical improvement of scar depth.
Combining Fillers with Subcision for Better Results
For certain scar types, especially tethered rolling scars, fillers alone may not provide optimal results. That’s where subcision comes in.
Subcision is a minor in-office procedure that involves using a small, specialized needle to break up fibrous scar bands tethering the skin down. Once released, dermal filler can then be injected into the space to support the skin and prevent reattachment.
Combining subcision with dermal fillers can lead to:
Better elevation of indented scars
Long-lasting structural support
Enhanced collagen remodeling over time
This dual approach is one we frequently use at Clemens Face + Body for patients seeking meaningful improvement in acne scarring.
What to Expect During Treatment
Treatment typically takes 30–45 minutes, depending on the number of areas being treated. Most patients experience mild swelling or bruising that resolves within a few days. Because results are visible almost immediately, many patients enjoy a noticeable confidence boost after just one session.
We also emphasize patient education and offer personalized guidance on aftercare and long-term scar management, including adjunctive treatments like microneedling or chemical peels.
Is Filler Right for Your Acne Scars?
The best way to determine if dermal fillers are right for your acne scars is to schedule a consultation. At Clemens Face + Body in Brookline, Boston, we take the time to perform a thorough skin analysis and create a custom treatment plan tailored to your scar type, skin tone, and goals.
Final Thoughts
Dermal fillers offer a powerful, effective, and non-surgical option for improving acne scars—especially when combined with procedures like subcision. Whether you're looking to smooth texture, restore lost volume, or improve hydration, fillers can play a key role in your skin journey.
