The short answer
Because depressed scars are almost never one type — most faces carry a mix of rolling, boxcar, and ice-pick scars, and each type responds to a different treatment. Improvement widens only when subcision (to release tethering), TCA cross (for narrow, deep scars), and resurfacing lasers are combined according to a map of your scars.
How are scar types classified?
Rolling scars are broad, gently depressed areas usually caused by tethering — fibrous bands pulling the skin down from beneath. Boxcar scars have sharp, vertical edges like a box; ice-pick scars are narrow, deep punctures. A mix of all three on one face is the norm.
What works for each type?
For rolling scars, subcision to release the tethering comes first. For ice-pick scars, TCA cross — which induces regeneration along the scar walls — is effective. Boxcar scars and surface irregularities are refined with fractional lasers (CO2, erbium, Legato II) and Potenza. Boosters such as Juvelook are sometimes added to support regeneration.
How long should I plan for?
Scar treatment proceeds in stages at 4-6 week intervals, typically planned as 3-6 or more stages. The realistic goal is to make scars much less noticeable rather than to erase them, and we build the full roadmap together at your first visit.
First-line treatment by scar type
| Type | Shape | First-line treatment |
|---|---|---|
| Rolling | Broad, gentle depression | Subcision + laser |
| Boxcar | Depression with vertical edges | Fractional laser + Potenza |
| Ice pick | Narrow, deep puncture | TCA cross |
| Mixed | Combination of types | Combination based on a scar map |
Related treatments
Scar Combination Program
Scar Combination Program
Staged treatment designed around your scar types
- ·Acne scars of several mixed types
- ·Those who were not satisfied with a single laser
- ·Those who want a long-term plan for scar improvement
Potenza
Potenza
RF microneedling that treats skin problems at the root
- ·Recurring adult acne and lingering red marks
- ·Enlarged pores and depressed scars
- ·Those who want to manage redness at the same time
Juvelook / Juvelook Volume
Juvelook / Juvelook Volume
A regenerative booster that stimulates your own collagen
- ·Texture concerns such as fine lines, pores, and shallow scars
- ·Those who want natural volume restoration without the feel of filler
- ·Those who prefer gradual change that builds over time
This guide is general medical information and does not replace an individual diagnosis. Please seek an in-person consultation for decisions about your own care.