Acne Scars: What the NHS Advises, What the Evidence Says About PRP and Your Options

Bothered by acne scars? Talk to a doctor about your options. Message us on WhatsApp, book a consultation or call 020 3951 3429.

Why acne leaves scars

Acne can leave scars, such as shallow holes in the skin (ice-pick or boxcar scars) (NHS: Acne). The NHS says not to pick or squeeze spots because this can cause scars, and to see a GP if spots are deep, painful or causing scarring. Treating active acne early is the best way to limit new scars.

What helps scars heal

The NHS says you cannot get rid of a scar, but most fade over time without treatment, which can take up to 2 years or more (NHS: Scars). Helpful steps include gentle massage with a water-based cream once healed, keeping the scar covered or using SPF 30 or more sunscreen, and asking a pharmacist about silicone gels. Skin camouflage products can also cover marks.

Treatment routes if scars still bother you

The NHS says a GP may recommend treatments or refer you to a specialist, and that the aim is to improve how a scar looks. Options depend on the type of scar and can include procedures such as cryotherapy and skin camouflage. A GP can also refer you for talking therapy if a scar is affecting your mental health (NHS).

Want a doctor to assess your scar type? Message us on WhatsApp, book a consultation or call 020 3951 3429.

Where does PRP fit? The honest answer

PRP is usually studied alongside microneedling or laser. An overview of 15 systematic reviews of PRP for acne scars (PMC11073618) found that most studies compared PRP combined with microneedling or laser against the same treatment without PRP. Clinical improvement and patient satisfaction were higher in PRP groups, but the authors concluded that low or very low certainty of evidence does not support a clear clinical decision about PRP for acne scars, and that better studies are needed.

So PRP is not a miracle and not a first step. It can be a reasonable add-on for some people. Our doctors will tell you plainly whether it is worth your money. If it is, facial PRP is £450 per session, under-eye area included.

Checklist before you book

- Is your acne active? Treating it first protects the skin.

- Photograph your scars in the same light each month.

- Note your skin tone and any past reaction to treatments or marks that darken.

- List medicines, including isotretinoin, which affects when procedures are safe.

- Write down what you want: smoother texture, less shadowing or less redness.

Red flags

Ask for an urgent GP appointment or call NHS 111 if a scar is swollen, painful, warm to the touch or has pus coming out of it (NHS).

How to start

A consultation with one of our doctors is £59 by phone (15 minutes), £150 by video or £220 in person at Unit 4, 10 Portman Square, London W1H 6AZ. We will assess the scars, explain the free NHS routes and agree a plan with review points.

Frequently asked questions

Will my acne scars go away?

Most scars fade over time without treatment, which can take up to 2 years or more (NHS).

Does PRP remove acne scars?

Studies suggest some benefit when combined with microneedling or laser, but the certainty of evidence is low or very low.

Can I treat scars on the NHS?

A GP can recommend treatments or refer you to a specialist.

Ready to talk to a doctor? Message us on WhatsApp, book a consultation or call 020 3951 3429.

Written by The Wellness Team and medically reviewed by The Wellness Clinical Team. This article is for information only and does not replace a consultation with a doctor.