Hello, this is Rodam Korean Medicine Clinic, the beginning of Coratherapy for scar removal.
Acne leaves significant stress not only when it starts to appear but also after treatment is completed.
Especially, depressed scars caused by improper management
are difficult to cover even with makeup, becoming a bigger concern.
Among them, ice pick scars, which look like they have been pierced with an awl,
create an irregular skin texture and leave noticeable marks,
causing psychological burdens for many people.
These scars can resemble pores and are hard to conceal with makeup,
deepening concerns about one’s appearance.

Ice pick scars are among the most challenging types of acne scars to treat.
Today, let’s talk about what these scars are and the treatment methods available.

What are Ice Pick Scars?

Ice pick scars, a form of acne scars, are narrow and deep depressions in the skin
that look like they have been pierced with a needle or awl.
They are generally small in diameter but very deep, appearing like tiny holes in the skin.
These scars occur when inflammatory acne damages the deeper parts of the follicle,
and the tissue fails to heal properly.
Due to their sharp and deep nature, they are one of the most stressful types of scars,
as they cannot be easily covered with regular skincare or makeup.

Characteristics of Ice Pick Scars

Ice pick scars are the deepest and sharpest form of acne scars.

– Deeply indented in a V-shape
– Cylindrical with distinct and angular edges
– Narrow at the opening but wider inside, resembling a bottle
– The bottom of the scar is visible to the naked eye
– So deep that they appear dark on the surface

All of these can be identified as ice pick scars.

Ice pick scars are challenging to treat.
This is because the scars penetrate deep into the dermis or subcutaneous tissue,
and the presence of pores in the middle limits the space for collagen regeneration.
Additionally, the excessively deep bottom of the scar makes it difficult to monitor improvement during the healing process.
Therefore, treatments should focus on lifting the bottom of the scar,
rather than merely addressing the edges or surface.

Treatment Methods for Ice Pick Scars

Ice pick scars are narrow and deep, making natural healing difficult and requiring professional treatment.
Representative treatment methods include Coratherapy, TCA Cross, laser treatments, and fillers.

1. Coratherapy:
Coratherapy is a Korean medicine approach that uses specialized needles to stimulate the scarred area and promote skin regeneration. By directly stimulating the scar, it encourages the growth of new skin and is effective for various types of depressed scars. Among the treatment methods for ice pick scars, Coratherapy often yields the best results.

2. TCA Cross:
TCA Cross involves applying a high-concentration TCA solution to the interior of the scar to induce chemical regeneration. It stimulates collagen production at the base of the scar, gradually filling in the depression, making it a well-known treatment for ice pick scars.

3. Laser Treatment:
Laser treatment uses fractional lasers to create microthermal damage in the skin, promoting regeneration. While it improves skin texture and aids in the regeneration of surrounding scar tissue, its standalone effect on deep ice pick scars may be limited, often serving as a supplementary procedure.

4. Filler Treatment:
Filler treatment involves injecting fillers into the base of the scar to elevate the skin surface, providing immediate improvement. However, the effect is temporary, requiring repeated procedures.

Of course, combining multiple treatments often leads to faster improvement of ice pick scars.
However, for those who prefer a tailored treatment process with careful monitoring at a single clinic,
we recommend Coratherapy, which can lift the base of the scar and manage both the scar edges and skin texture.

Coratherapy

So, what makes Coratherapy an effective treatment for ice pick scars?

Rodam Korean Medicine Clinic’s Coratherapy, which began in 2006 as a treatment for depressed scars,
activates the skin’s natural regenerative power to encourage the growth of new skin.
Using specially designed needles, Rodam Korean Medicine Clinic’s Coratherapy
can more precisely stimulate the boundary between the scar and normal skin.
This allows for more effective and natural treatment of depressed scars.
It is also effective for various types of depressed scars, including acne scars, chickenpox scars, shingles scars, and surgical scars.

However, treating ice pick scars does not end with the procedure alone.
Post-treatment care is crucial to maximize the effects of Coratherapy.

• Consistent Moisturization: Ice pick scars often involve damage to the deeper layers of the skin, making it prone to dryness after treatment. Adequate moisturization is essential to maintain a regenerative environment.
• Sun Protection: Skin regenerated through Coratherapy can be sensitive to UV rays, so it’s important to apply a high-SPF sunscreen daily.
• Avoid Alcohol and Smoking: Alcohol and nicotine are known to hinder skin regeneration. Avoiding these is essential to enhance treatment effectiveness.

With the expertise of Rodam Korean Medicine Clinic, appropriate treatment and consistent post-treatment care can significantly reduce concerns caused by ice pick scars.
If you are struggling with deep acne scars, feel free to contact us anytime.
Rodam Korean Medicine Clinic is always here to help you regain confidence in your skin. Thank you.