Why does acne cause scarring?

By Dr Magnus Lynch
MA(Cantab) DPhil(Oxon) MRCS FRCP
Consultant Dermatologist & Dermatological Surgeon

Acne is not only annoying at the time but can lead to long term scarring. Acne scarring is generally caused by moderate or severe acne, particularly where there are acne nodules or cysts. This is one of the reasons why it is important to rapidly and effectively treat moderate and severe acne - with tablet treatments if required.

Scarring reflects the body's natural response to injury - during human evolution it was important that any injury healed as rapidly as possible to seal a break in the skin surface that could lead to infection which in the era before antibiotics and modern medicine was potentially fatal. Whilst wounds in the human fetus can heal with no scar, all healing in the child or adult is associated with at least some degree of scar formation.

As for any cause of severe inflammation, acne lesions cause damage to the epidermis and the dermis with death of keratinocytes and fibroblasts and damage to normal skin structures such as hair follicles and sweat glands. This damage is repaired by growth and division of fibroblasts - the cells responsible for production of the connective tissue in the skin. This leads to the formation of tough bands of connective tissue that characterize scar tissue and can be contrasted with the delicate fibres that make up the normal dermis.

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About Dr Magnus Lynch

I am a London-based Consultant Dermatologist and Dermatological Surgeon. My NHS practice is at Guy's Hospital and is focused on Mohs micrographic surgery and the treatment of complex skin cancers. My private practice additionally focuses on laser treatments, regenerative dermatology, rosacea, acne, pigmentation and scarring. I have particular expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer, including minimally-invasive techniques, Mohs micrographic surgery, and facial reconstructive surgery. I studied at the Universities of Cambridge and Oxford, and completed my dermatology training and Mohs fellowship at the prestigious St John’s Institute of Dermatology. I graduated from medical school in 2003 and have worked exclusively in Dermatology since 2012.

I lead a research team at King’s College London investigating the molecular biology of skin cancer and skin cancer diagnostics, and I constantly aim to translate the latest findings into better patient care. You can learn more about my Research.

In recent years I have been involved in Media Appearances, including the Channel 5 series 'Skin A&E', where I perform skin surgeries and treat various skin conditions. Filming for the next series has recently completed and the series will be released later in 2025.

How I can help

I consult with private patients at several well-appointed and conveniently located sites across central London:

• London Bridge Hospital: Conveniently situated within The Shard, next to London Bridge station.
• Skin55 Ltd: Located at 55 Harley Street, this beautiful Edwardian building houses one of the largest private dermatology facilities in the UK with a comprehensive laser suite.
• OneWelbeck: Located close to Bond Street underground station. Mohs surgery, lasers, and other skin surgeries are performed in the state-of-the-art surgical suite here.

A new consultation is £250, a follow up consultation is £220. For more information on fees, please visit Prices.