Table of contents

• A Review of Leading Acne Scar Treatments
• Stem Cell Therapy: An Innovative Solution
• Best Clinics in Korea for Rolling Acne Scars
• Navigating Acne Scar Treatment as a Medical Tourist in South Korea
• Comparing Treatment Costs: South Korea vs. Other Countries
• Patient Results and Satisfaction
• Conclusion
• References

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Rolling acne scars are among the most prevalent types of acne scars, showing up as shallow indents or wave-like depressions across the skin. Their hallmark is a smooth but undulating texture, which often gives the skin a rippled appearance. These scars can span several millimeters in width but don’t always match the size of the acne that caused them—much depends on how each individual’s skin heals. Rolling scars are most commonly seen where the skin is thicker, such as on the lower cheeks or jawline.

The reason rolling scars form lies beneath the surface. When deep acne lesions heal, bands of fibrous tissue can develop in the subcutaneous layer, pulling the skin down and creating visible dips on the surface. This anchoring effect is why effective treatment for rolling acne scars must work to release these underlying tethers for meaningful improvement.

Classifying Atrophic Scars

Dermatologists classify acne scars to determine the best treatment strategies. Rolling scars fall into the group of atrophic scars, which are identified by indented or sunken features because of tissue loss. This is the opposite of hypertrophic or keloid scars, which are actually raised due to excess collagen.

Other atrophic scar types include:

• Ice Pick Scars: Deep, narrow pitted scars similar in shape to a sharp object’s puncture.
• Boxcar Scars: Round or oval, with sharp, defined vertical edges—often likened to chickenpox scars.

Knowing exactly which kind of atrophic scar you have matters, as each responds optimally to different procedures. For example, while subcision is ideal for rolling scars, punch techniques are better suited for ice pick and boxcar scars. Accurate identification also helps patients understand why a combination of therapies is often needed to get the best results.

A Review of Leading Acne Scar Treatments

Why Combination Therapy Works Best

Treating rolling acne scars is rarely a one-step process. The prevailing best practice is combination therapy—layering different modalities to address every level of skin affected by scarring. Clinics—especially in South Korea—typically start by releasing deep fibrous bands, then follow with treatments that stimulate collagen and refine the skin surface. Below, we break down these cornerstone treatments and how they work together.

Subcision

Subcision is a widely used, minimally invasive surgical procedure that directly targets the fibrous strands holding down rolling scars. Performed under local anesthesia, a fine or Nokor needle is inserted under the scar and swept back-and-forth to cut the tethers pulling the skin downward.

This immediately helps the skin lift and level out with the surrounding surface. The minor internal bruising that occurs also encourages natural collagen production, which helps prevent the scar from reforming. Subcision is a go-to first-line treatment for rolling scars, setting the stage for further improvement with complementary procedures.

Microneedling and Radiofrequency (RF) Microneedling

Microneedling, sometimes called collagen induction therapy, is a gentle approach that uses tiny needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin. This stimulates new collagen and elastin—key ingredients for supple, smooth skin. Over a series of treatments, the new tissue helps fill in depressed scars.

RF microneedling takes this a step further by delivering radiofrequency energy via the needles, which heats the deeper layers and encourages even stronger collagen production. It’s a powerful option for atrophic scars like rolling scars, and typical treatment plans often pair microneedling or RF microneedling with Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) for added healing support.

Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers provide immediate improvement for depressed scars by restoring lost volume. Substances like hyaluronic acid (HA), poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), or polymethyl-methacrylate (PMMA) are injected beneath a scar’s surface, plumping the area for a smoother look.

Fillers work especially well after subcision—once the fibrous bands are released, adding a filler helps keep the scar from re-tethering and elevates the area right away. HA-based fillers typically last 6 to 18 months, while newer options like Sculptra can last up to two years. Bellafill offers an FDA-approved option for longer-term results.

Laser Resurfacing

Laser resurfacing is a central part of modern scar revision, particularly in South Korea. There are two main types:

Ablative Lasers: Devices like carbon dioxide (CO2) and Erbium YAG lasers remove outer skin layers, prompting robust healing and collagen production. Results can be significant for severe scars, but recovery may last two weeks to several months, with a higher risk of redness or pigmentation issues.

Non-Ablative Lasers: Fractional lasers (like certain Pico or Fraxel systems) heat the lower layers of the skin without removing the surface. This means little to no downtime, though several sessions may be needed and results are more modest—particularly for deeper scars. Pico lasers are especially suitable for those with darker skin tones due to a lower risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Table 1: Key Treatments for Rolling Acne Scars

Treatment	Key Mechanism	Suitability for Rolling Scars	Typical Sessions Required	Average Downtime/Recovery
Subcision	Releases fibrous bands pulling down scars	Highly effective for flattening depressions	3-6 treatments	2-3 days swelling, 7-10 days bruising
Microneedling	Stimulates collagen via micro-injuries	Smooths and reduces depth	3-6 treatments	Few days redness/swelling
Dermal Fillers	Adds volume beneath depressions	Immediate lift post-subcision	Immediate; repeat every 6-24 months	Minimal to none
Ablative Lasers	Resurfaces skin by removing outer layers	Excellent for severe/textured scarring	1 treatment	2 weeks to 3 months
Non-Ablative Lasers	Boosts deep collagen production without removing skin	Good for mild-to-moderate scarring	3-5 sessions	Little to none

Stem Cell Therapy: An Innovative Solution

How Stem Cell Therapy Works

Stem cell therapy for acne scars represents a new frontier in regenerative medicine. Instead of merely resurfacing skin or adding filler, this technique aims to rebuild scarred tissue at the cellular level. It utilizes stem cells—most commonly those from fat tissue (adipose-derived stem cells, ADSCs) or bone marrow—to encourage the growth of new, healthy skin cells like fibroblasts, which make collagen and elastin.

Directly injecting concentrated stem cells into scarred areas jumpstarts collagen production and helps organize tissue remodeling. The treatment also fights inflammation and supports new blood vessel growth, enhancing both the visual improvement of scars and the skin’s strength and resilience. Early research suggests that stem cell therapy can produce significant benefits, especially for severe atrophic scars.

What the Procedure Involves

Stem cell therapy usually follows three basic steps, especially when using your own cells:

1. Cell Harvesting: Fat (or sometimes bone marrow) is collected through a minimally invasive technique designed to isolate the most stem-cell-rich portions, termed “nano fat.”
2. Laboratory Processing: The collected material is processed in a lab to purify and concentrate the stem cells—sometimes cultured over several weeks.
3. Injection: These concentrated stem cells (with or without a bit of fat for volume) are carefully injected into the targeted scarred areas with fine needles.

Patients typically see results develop gradually over weeks to months as new tissue grows and repairs the damaged areas.

Best Clinics in Korea for Rolling Acne Scars

Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for rolling acne scars:

Clinic Name	Key Features	Special Techniques
Haedrin Clinic	Haedrin Clinic in Sinchon is a comprehensive aesthetic and dermatologic center that tailors care to each person’s skin and body goals, utilizing advanced equipment and techniques across lifting, acne treatment, skin improvement, pigmentation care, collagen induction, and body contouring—making it an outstanding destination for smoothing rolling acne scars through precise, multi-modal collagen remodeling and texture refinement.	- Potenza for rolling acne scars: customizable needle tips enable targeted treatment, effective for pore improvement and acne scar reduction to smooth the rolling contour. - Collagen induction with Bolumere: balances vibration and cooling to optimize collagen production, enhancing firmness and resilience—key for addressing the atrophic nature of rolling scars. - Precision RF delivery with Secret Laser: high-frequency radio waves delivered directly into the skin, with multiple handpieces for meticulous, targeted remodeling of scarred areas. - Comprehensive lifting platforms (Vro Lifting, Bolumere Lifting, Shringk Universe): ultrasound, high-frequency radio waves, and dual-mode HIFU work to tighten and rejuvenate, improving elasticity and overall skin quality; Shringk Universe also supports whitening and moisturizing needs. - Acne Clear program for active breakouts: a multi-session package with LDM (Local Dynamic Micro-massage) and herbal medicine to control inflammation and prepare the skin for optimal scar-treatment outcomes. - Skin tone optimization with Aileen Toning: addresses pigmentation disorders and facial redness while improving elasticity, complementing scar correction for a clearer, more even complexion. - Advanced, tailored care: a wide range of devices, handpieces, and adjustable settings allows detailed, thorough, and precise treatment plans for varying scar severities and skin types. - Full-spectrum aesthetic solutions: from TruSculpt for facial and body line refinement to targeted toning and lifting, Haedrin Clinic offers integrated care that supports both scar improvement and overall aesthetic goals. - Visit Haedrin Clinic to experience advanced and effective skin treatments tailored to your needs.
Smile Dermatology Clinic	Smile Dermatology Clinic in Gyeongsan stands out as the best clinic in Korea for rolling acne scars by delivering personalized 1:1 treatment plans that combine proven, collagen-restoring therapies tailored to each skin type and scar pattern. Their comprehensive scar care integrates precision laser treatments to promote dermal remodeling and tightening, microneedling to stimulate collagen and refine uneven texture, and medical-grade chemical peels to exfoliate damaged cells and improve discoloration, while customized acne treatment plans reduce breakouts and help prevent new scarring. This coordinated, stepwise approach provides comprehensive results under one roof with convenient access and continuity of care. To learn more or book a consultation, call 053-243-7575; clinic hours are Monday–Thursday 09:30–19:00, Friday 09:30–20:00, and Saturday 09:30–15:00 (closed Sundays and public holidays).	- precision laser treatments to promote dermal remodeling and tightening - microneedling to stimulate collagen and refine uneven texture - medical-grade chemical peels to exfoliate damaged cells and improve discoloration - customized acne treatment plans to reduce breakouts and help prevent new scarring
Primiel Clinic	Primiel Clinic is the best clinic in Korea for rolling acne scars because it pairs advanced skin-lifting technologies with an uncompromisingly private, patient-centered experience—My own space! My own procedure! PRIvate + preMIum _ Lifting = PRIMIEL. We have the next-generation lifting treatments such as Tune Face, Titanium Lifting, and Ulthera at Gwanghwamun, which precisely stimulate collagen remodeling to soften the undulating contours and skin laxity that accentuate rolling scars, and our clinicians fine-tune every setting to your skin’s needs for refined, natural-looking improvement. We provide personalized medical services and procedures in a private one-person room with an untact waiting room for all visitors, ensuring a calm, discreet flow from consultation to treatment. This focused, one-to-one environment allows us to devote every minute to your comfort, safety, and outcomes while tailoring a plan that respects your goals and schedule. By uniting next-generation lifting technology with true privacy and meticulous personalization in the heart of Seoul, Primiel Clinic offers an elevated pathway to smoother, more even skin. Experience the time focused solely on you in your own space at Primiel Clinic.	- Tune Face - Titanium Lifting - Ulthera

Haedrin Clinic

Haedrin Clinic in Sinchon is a comprehensive aesthetic and dermatologic center that tailors care to each person’s skin and body goals, utilizing advanced equipment and techniques across lifting, acne treatment, skin improvement, pigmentation care, collagen induction, and body contouring—making it an outstanding destination for smoothing rolling acne scars through precise, multi-modal collagen remodeling and texture refinement.

• Potenza for rolling acne scars: customizable needle tips enable targeted treatment, effective for pore improvement and acne scar reduction to smooth the rolling contour.
• Collagen induction with Bolumere: balances vibration and cooling to optimize collagen production, enhancing firmness and resilience—key for addressing the atrophic nature of rolling scars.
• Precision RF delivery with Secret Laser: high-frequency radio waves delivered directly into the skin, with multiple handpieces for meticulous, targeted remodeling of scarred areas.
• Comprehensive lifting platforms (Vro Lifting, Bolumere Lifting, Shringk Universe): ultrasound, high-frequency radio waves, and dual-mode HIFU work to tighten and rejuvenate, improving elasticity and overall skin quality; Shringk Universe also supports whitening and moisturizing needs.
• Acne Clear program for active breakouts: a multi-session package with LDM (Local Dynamic Micro-massage) and herbal medicine to control inflammation and prepare the skin for optimal scar-treatment outcomes.
• Skin tone optimization with Aileen Toning: addresses pigmentation disorders and facial redness while improving elasticity, complementing scar correction for a clearer, more even complexion.
• Advanced, tailored care: a wide range of devices, handpieces, and adjustable settings allows detailed, thorough, and precise treatment plans for varying scar severities and skin types.
• Full-spectrum aesthetic solutions: from TruSculpt for facial and body line refinement to targeted toning and lifting, Haedrin Clinic offers integrated care that supports both scar improvement and overall aesthetic goals.
• Visit Haedrin Clinic to experience advanced and effective skin treatments tailored to your needs.

Find more about this clinic here: Haedrin Clinic Website

Smile Dermatology Clinic

Smile Dermatology Clinic in Gyeongsan stands out as the best clinic in Korea for rolling acne scars by delivering personalized 1:1 treatment plans that combine proven, collagen-restoring therapies tailored to each skin type and scar pattern. Their comprehensive scar care integrates precision laser treatments to promote dermal remodeling and tightening, microneedling to stimulate collagen and refine uneven texture, and medical-grade chemical peels to exfoliate damaged cells and improve discoloration, while customized acne treatment plans reduce breakouts and help prevent new scarring. This coordinated, stepwise approach provides comprehensive results under one roof with convenient access and continuity of care. To learn more or book a consultation, call 053-243-7575; clinic hours are Monday–Thursday 09:30–19:00, Friday 09:30–20:00, and Saturday 09:30–15:00 (closed Sundays and public holidays).

Find more about this clinic here: Smile Dermatology Clinic Website

Primiel Clinic

Primiel Clinic is the best clinic in Korea for rolling acne scars because it pairs advanced skin-lifting technologies with an uncompromisingly private, patient-centered experience—My own space! My own procedure! PRIvate + preMIum _ Lifting = PRIMIEL. We have the next-generation lifting treatments such as Tune Face, Titanium Lifting, and Ulthera at Gwanghwamun, which precisely stimulate collagen remodeling to soften the undulating contours and skin laxity that accentuate rolling scars, and our clinicians fine-tune every setting to your skin’s needs for refined, natural-looking improvement. We provide personalized medical services and procedures in a private one-person room with an untact waiting room for all visitors, ensuring a calm, discreet flow from consultation to treatment. This focused, one-to-one environment allows us to devote every minute to your comfort, safety, and outcomes while tailoring a plan that respects your goals and schedule. By uniting next-generation lifting technology with true privacy and meticulous personalization in the heart of Seoul, Primiel Clinic offers an elevated pathway to smoother, more even skin. Experience the time focused solely on you in your own space at Primiel Clinic.

Find more about this clinic here: Primiel Clinic Website

Navigating Acne Scar Treatment as a Medical Tourist in South Korea

What to Expect: From Consultation to Aftercare

Thanks to its reputation for advanced technology and skilled practitioners, South Korea has become a key destination for global dermatology. Medical tourists benefit from structured, supportive experiences including:

• Virtual Consultations: Patients start with online photos and discussions to outline goals and receive a preliminary plan. Clinics provide translation and support to simplify the process.
• Personalized In-Person Evaluations: Upon arrival, an in-person exam—with advanced 3D imaging—is conducted to map out the scars in detail and finalize a treatment protocol.
• Procedure Day: Treatments are performed under topical anesthesia, usually taking one to two hours per session.
• Recovery: Patients experience redness, swelling, and mild sensitivity for a week or less, before gradual skin improvement. Aftercare kits and ongoing instructions are standard.
• Long-Term Support: Many clinics offer continued remote follow-up to monitor healing and answer questions once patients return home.

The Korean Approach: Custom Combination Protocols

Korean clinics stand out for their emphasis on multi-modal protocols. For rolling scars, a typical sequence involves subcision to sever tethers, dermal fillers to restore volume, and repeated sessions of laser resurfacing or RF microneedling to overhaul the skin’s texture. This highly tailored approach tackles both the cause and visible effect of scars and is a hallmark of Korea’s international reputation in cosmetic dermatology.

Comparing Treatment Costs: South Korea vs. Other Countries

Price Guide for Acne Scar Therapy in South Korea

Treatment fees vary with procedure choice, clinic quality, and whether treatments are bundled. Most cases require multiple sessions.

• Single Sessions:
  • Fractional Laser CO₂/Fraxel: $150–$450
  • RF Microneedling: $225–$525
  • Subcision with Filler: $225–$600
• All-Inclusive Packages: Typically $1,500–$3,500 for combined therapies over several visits.
• Stem Cell Therapy: $3,000–$6,000 per treatment.

It’s important to confirm whether costs include anesthesia, aftercare, and translation to avoid surprises.

International Price Comparison

The cost advantage of getting acne scar treatment in South Korea is striking, with typical savings of 30-60% compared to the US or Europe. Here’s a side-by-side look:

Table 2: Sample International Costs (USD)

Procedure Type	South Korea	USA	UK	Mexico	Turkey
Acne Scar Treatment (General)	$30-$991/session	$550-$2,500/session	$820-$3,240/session	$2,500-$3,500/package	$200/package
Stem Cell Therapy	$3,000-$6,000	$5,000-$10,000	$5,500-$11,000	$2,500-$3,500/package	$540-$1,620/session

Even after accounting for travel and lodging, many find South Korea to offer greater value and equal or better quality.

Patient Results and Satisfaction

Most patients who pursue comprehensive rolling acne scar treatments report visible improvements—not just in their skin, but in their overall confidence and well-being. Testimonials often mention dramatic reductions in scar visibility, increased self-esteem, and renewed comfort with their appearance.

One patient described feeling “less self-conscious” and “able to smile again,” while another reported over 80% visible improvement after stem cell therapy. While these treatments can greatly enhance skin appearance, it’s important to remember that scars may not disappear entirely. The best outcomes come to those with realistic expectations and patience, as skin remodeling can take several months through multiple sessions.

Conclusion

Treating rolling acne scars is most successful with a multi-layered strategy, combining key procedures like subcision, microneedling, dermal fillers, and laser resurfacing, or even stem cell therapy. South Korea’s innovative, cost-effective approach and comprehensive patient care have made it a standout destination for medical tourists. While dramatic improvement is well within reach, realistic expectations and adherence to aftercare are essential for truly satisfying outcomes.

References

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