Acne, marks and scars: what is the difference?
Active acne is inflammation in the pores. Post-acne marks are flat pink, red or brown spots left behind, which often fade with time and the right treatment. Acne scars are changes in the skin's texture, either indented or raised, caused by damage to collagen during deep breakouts.
Scars need collagen remodeling, while marks respond to resurfacing and pigment care, so we treat them differently.
Texture (scars)
SkinPen microneedling with PRF stimulates new collagen to smooth indented scars.
Tone (marks and active acne)
The VI Peel and medical-grade skincare calm breakouts and fade marks.
Types of acne scars and marks we treat
Rolling scars
Soft, wave-like depressions
SkinPen with PRF
Boxcar scars
Broad depressions with defined edges
SkinPen with PRF
Ice pick scars
Narrow, deep pits
Assessed at consultation
Red or pink marks
Flat marks after breakouts
VI Peel, skincare
Brown marks
Post-inflammatory pigment
VI Peel, skincare
Active breakouts
Ongoing acne
VI Peel, medical-grade skincare
Acne scar treatment options compared
| Treatment | Best for | Results | Price at KORA |
|---|---|---|---|
| SkinPen microneedling | Texture and mild scarring | Gradual, over a series | $350 |
| SkinPen with PRF | Deeper texture and scarring | Gradual, over a series | $450 |
| VI Peel | Active acne, marks and uneven tone | Peeling over about a week | $349 |
| Medical-grade skincare | Daily control and maintenance | Gradual, over 8 to 12 weeks | Chosen at your consultation |
Recommended treatments for acne and scarring
SkinPen PRF Microneedling
SkinPen microneedling, with or without PRF, for texture, scarring and fine lines.Learn more
VI Chemical Peel
A medical-grade peel for pigment, sun damage, acne and uneven tone.Learn more
Medical Grade Skincare
ZO Skin Health and Skinbetter Science regimens chosen for your skin.Learn moreHow much does acne scar treatment cost in Scottsdale?
Most scar plans include a series of SkinPen sessions spaced several weeks apart. Your nurse practitioner outlines the plan and total at your consultation.
| Treatment | Price at KORA |
|---|---|
| SkinPen microneedling | $350 |
| SkinPen with PRF | $450 |
| PDRN facial add-on | $149 Add-on |
| VI Peel | $349 |
What to expect
- Consultation
Skin assessment
We identify scar types, marks and any active acne.
- Session 1
Treatment
SkinPen takes about an hour with numbing; the VI Peel about 30 minutes.
- Days 1 to 7
Recovery
Expect redness after SkinPen for a day or two, and peeling after the VI Peel around days 3 to 7.
- Every 4 to 6 weeks
Series
Texture improves gradually with each session.
Caring for acne-prone skin in Arizona
- Mineral SPF every day helps marks fade and protects healing skin.
- Do not pick or squeeze breakouts, which can deepen scarring.
- A consistent medical-grade routine keeps new breakouts under control between treatments.
Who treats you
Every treatment at KORA Aesthetics is performed by one of our board-certified nurse practitioners. Our founder, Katie Manhardt, MSN, FNP-C, is a national clinical trainer for Galderma and Prollenium, and every plan begins with a complimentary consultation.
Acne and scarring FAQs
What is the best treatment for acne scars in Scottsdale?
For indented scars, SkinPen microneedling with PRF is a strong option because it rebuilds collagen. Marks and active acne usually respond better to the VI Peel and medical-grade skincare.
How many SkinPen sessions do I need for acne scars?
Most patients need a series of three or more sessions spaced several weeks apart, depending on the depth of scarring.
How much is microneedling in Scottsdale?
SkinPen microneedling at KORA is $350, or $450 with PRF.
Can I treat acne scars while I still have breakouts?
We usually calm active acne first with the VI Peel and skincare, then focus on scars.
Is there downtime?
Expect a day or two of redness after SkinPen and several days of peeling after the VI Peel.