The Best Treatments for Acne Scarring: A Cardiff Clinic's Honest Ranking

Acne scarring is one of the most emotionally loaded concerns we treat, and one of the most over-promised. The truth: scars can be dramatically improved, rarely erased, and the right treatment depends entirely on the scar type. Here is our honest ranking.

First, identify your scar type

• Rolling scars: soft, wave-like depressions, the most treatable type.
• Boxcar scars: sharper-edged depressions, often on cheeks.
• Ice-pick scars: deep, narrow pits, the most stubborn.
• Post-inflammatory marks: flat red or brown patches, not true scars, and far easier to clear.

What actually works, ranked

1. RF microneedling, the strongest all-rounder for rolling and boxcar scars. Needles break up scar tissue while radiofrequency heat remodels the deeper dermis. Expect a course of three; see our complete RF microneedling guide.

2. Traditional microneedling, excellent for milder rolling scars and texture, at a friendlier price point. Pairing it with exosomes measurably accelerates remodelling.

3. Chemical peels, medium-depth peels improve shallow scarring and are the fastest route for post-inflammatory pigmentation. See our peels guide.

4. Polynucleotides, the regenerative layer: injected into scarred areas they improve skin quality and elasticity around scars, making everything above work better.

5. For ice-pick scars: honest answer, these need targeted techniques like TCA CROSS or excision, often alongside the above. We will tell you plainly if your scars fall in this category.

What a realistic outcome looks like

A well-sequenced course typically achieves a 40 to 70 per cent visible improvement over three to six months, life-changing for most clients, but no ethical clinic promises perfection. Beware anyone who does. Active acne must also be controlled first; treating scars while breakouts continue is pouring water into a leaking bucket.

Frequently asked questions

How many sessions will I need?

Typically three to six, spaced four to six weeks apart, depending on severity and modality.

Does it work on darker skin tones?

Yes, microneedling and RF microneedling with insulated needles are among the safest options for skin of colour. We assess pigmentation risk individually at consultation.

How much does acne scar treatment cost in Cardiff?

Microneedling courses from around £450; RF microneedling courses from around £1,500. Your consultation includes a precise written quote.

Your scars are specific, so your plan should be too. Book a consultation at The Enchara in Cardiff for a scar-type assessment and an honest, staged plan.