Acne scars are not one problem, and no single device treats all of them. At Sage Dermatology, a board-certified dermatologist examines your scars, identifies the types you have, and builds a plan from the treatments that work for each: fractional laser, radiofrequency microneedling, subcision, TCA CROSS and, where useful, filler. The result is a plan matched to your scars and your skin tone, not to whichever machine a clinic happens to own.

Types of acne scars

• Ice pick scars. Narrow, deep pits. They respond poorly to resurfacing alone and are best treated with TCA CROSS or punch techniques.
• Boxcar scars. Wider depressions with defined edges. They respond well to fractional laser and RF microneedling.
• Rolling scars. Broad, wave-like dips caused by fibrous bands pulling the skin down. Subcision releases the bands; laser or RF microneedling then smooths the surface.
• Raised (hypertrophic or keloid) scars. Treated with injections and, in some cases, laser, rather than resurfacing.
• Red or brown marks. Post-inflammatory redness and pigmentation are not true scars, but they are what many patients notice first. They are treated differently and usually improve alongside the scar plan.

Treatments we offer

ResurFX fractional laser (Lumenis). A non-ablative fractional laser that creates microscopic columns of heat in the dermis, stimulating new collagen while leaving the surface intact. Effective for boxcar and rolling scars and overall texture. Expect about a week of redness and swelling. A course of three to six sessions, spaced four to six weeks apart, is typical.

Sylfirm X radiofrequency microneedling. Insulated microneedles deliver radiofrequency energy into the dermis at controlled depths. It remodels scars and tightens skin with very low risk of pigment change, and is safe in all skin types, including medium and dark skin tones where some lasers carry risk. Downtime is minimal; most patients are back to normal activity the next day. Usually three to six sessions.

TCA CROSS. A high-concentration trichloroacetic acid is applied precisely into each ice pick scar to stimulate collagen from the base. Repeated every four to six weeks for several rounds. The only reliable non-surgical option for ice pick scars.

What results to expect

Scars can be substantially improved but not erased, and anyone promising complete removal is overselling. With a combined plan, most patients see a meaningful, visible improvement in depth and texture over three to six months, with collagen continuing to build for several months after the last treatment. We photograph at each visit so you can see the change.

Cost

Acne scar treatment is cosmetic and not covered by OHIP. Cost depends on the treatments in your plan and the number of sessions; a full quote is provided at consultation, and we provide receipts for health spending accounts.

Booking

No referral is needed for a scar consultation. Call 416.792.0159 or email info@sagedermatology.ca. Sage Dermatology is at 591 Yonge Street, Unit 203, steps from Wellesley subway station, with underground parking on Gloucester Street. Plan your visit.