Acne Scars vs Acne Marks: Know the Difference

After acne, skin can look different in two main ways: colour changes and texture changes. They are often confused, but they behave differently.

Acne marks (colour)

These are flat, darker or lighter patches. They are usually post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. They tend to fade over months with sun protection and suitable brightening actives.

Acne scars (texture)

• Ice-pick: small, deep pits
• Boxcar: wider, box-shaped depressions
• Rolling: broad, wave-like dips
• Raised: hypertrophic or keloid-type bumps

Scars usually need professional treatment. Skincare can help with the surface look of some marks but cannot reshape deep scars.

How to tell the difference

Gently stretch the skin next to the mark. If the texture stays uneven, it is more likely a scar. If the area looks flat and changes only in colour, it is more likely a mark.

What helps

• Daily sunscreen
• Not picking spots
• Gentle brightening actives, introduced slowly
• A dermatologist for scars that bother you

This is general information. Only a dermatologist can confirm the type of scar or mark you have.