How to Get Rid of Craters in Skin Naturally?

December 26, 2025

Understanding Acne Scars

What acne scars are (and why they look like “craters”)

Acne scars form when breakouts damage the skin tissue and the healing process lays down new scar tissue. This can change skin texture and leave unsightly scars, redness, or dark marks. When there’s a loss of skin cells in the top layer of skin and deeper layers, the skin heals with a dip—what many of us call “craters.”

Knowing your scar type is the first step in how to get rid of craters in skin naturally. Different scars respond to different care, so a clear ID saves time, stress, and money.

The two big groups: atrophic vs. raised scars

Atrophic scars: These are the “crater-like” marks caused by a loss of skin tissue. They include:
Icepick scars: Tiny but deep, like a narrow pit that reaches into the outer layer and beyond.
Boxcar scars: Wider with sharp edges, creating visible depressions in the surrounding skin.
Rolling scars: Wave-like dents with soft edges that make skin look uneven.
Raised scars: These include hypertrophic scars and keloid scars. Instead of a dip, extra collagen builds up and forms a raised bump. Keloids can grow beyond the original pimple area.

Each type alters the layer of skin in a different way, which is why treatment options vary depending on the scar type and depth.

How scars form: a simple look at the healing process

When acne inflames the pore, the wall can break. Your body races to repair the area by making collagen. If it makes too little, the result is atrophic acne scars (the craters). If it makes too much, you can see raised scars.

Inflammation matters: More inflammation usually means more damage to skin tissue and a higher chance of deeper scars or severe scarring.
Collagen production matters: Balanced collagen helps skin heal smoothly. Unbalanced collagen leaves texture behind.
Surface vs. deep: Surface scars are closer to the top layer of skin and often improve faster. Deeper scars reach lower layers and usually need more targeted care.

Scars vs. acne marks: not the same thing

Acne marks (dark marks or redness) are color changes left after a pimple. These are not true scars and often fade as the skin regenerates and sheds dead skin cells.
Acne scars are changes in skin texture—dips or raised areas—caused by altered collagen and scar tissue.

This difference matters because approaches that help color (like gentle exfoliation) won’t “fill in” a crater. And anti inflammatory properties that reduce irritation are helpful, but they won’t remove a deep icepick scar on their own.

How skin type and sensitivity play a role

Darker skin is more likely to develop dark marks and, in some cases, raised scars. Gentle, steady care helps prevent acne scars and reduce irritation.
Sensitive skin can react to harsh products, which may worsen redness and slow the way skin heals.

Understanding your skin type helps you choose effective treatments with little risk of extra irritation.

Why type matters for choosing care

Because each scar behaves differently, the right care can be very specific:

Icepick scars: Often need focused methods that reach deeper (your dermatologist may suggest punch excision or, in some cases, laser treatments).
Boxcar and rolling scars: Often respond to collagen induction therapy (microneedling treatments) and resurfacing treatment options that stimulate collagen production.
Raised scars (hypertrophic and keloid scars): Typically need strategies that calm excess collagen, sometimes including steroid injections under a doctor’s care.

Even if you’re aiming to get rid of craters naturally, understanding whether you’re dealing with atrophic scars, raised scars, or simple acne marks will guide you toward the gentlest, most effective path to smoother skin and clearer skin over time.

Causes of Acne Scarring

Inflammation under the top layer of skin

When a breakout swells and hurts, it’s a sign of deep inflammation. That swelling can damage skin tissue and break down collagen in the layer of skin where your skin cells rebuild. As the skin heals, it can leave behind scar tissue instead of smooth skin. This is how atrophic scars form—think boxcar scars, icepick scars, and rolling scars. These crater-like marks change skin texture because there’s a true loss of tissue in the outer layer and the layers beneath.

The “hands-off” rule matters

Picking or popping pimples tears the top layer of skin and pushes oil and bacteria into the surrounding skin. That extra trauma increases redness, irritation, and the chance of unsightly scars or dark marks (often called acne marks). Trusted health resources (including outlets in the RVO Health family) echo this: hands off helps your skin heal with fewer surface scars.

Depth of the breakout = depth of the scar

Cystic or nodular acne sits deeper and causes more damage. These deeper scars are harder to fade at home and may later need effective treatments like laser resurfacing, microneedling treatments (collagen induction therapy), dermabrasion, or even punch excision for icepick scars. Early care of big, painful bumps by a dermatologist—sometimes with steroid injections to reduce inflammation—can prevent severe scarring with little risk when done by a doctor.

Your genes and skin type play a role

Genetics can prime some of us to form raised scars (hypertrophic scars) or keloid scars. People with darker skin are also more prone to post‑inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark marks) and, in some cases, keloids, so they may need specialized treatment options and gentler routines for sensitive skin. Scars vary depending on biology, so recovery time and results can vary depending on the person.

Harsh or delayed care can set scars in motion

Over-stripping the outer layer with rough scrubs or frequent peels can inflame skin and slow skin regeneration.
DIY acids or a strong chemical solution at home (think lemon juice or undiluted apple cider vinegar) can burn the top layer of skin and worsen scars.
Extraction home kits and metal tools can crush skin tissue and increase the chance of raised scars or atrophic acne scars.
Heavier, pore‑clogging oils (like raw or cold pressed coconut oil on acne‑prone faces) can trap dead skin cells and spark new breakouts, raising scarring risk.
Skipping sun protection deepens dark marks and makes scar removal harder later.

Quick prevention snapshot

Treat inflamed acne early to reduce damage to collagen.
Don’t pick—let the skin heal.
Keep care gentle; choose anti‑inflammatory properties from soothing options like aloe vera while you’re undergoing treatment for active acne.
Protect the top layer with daily mineral SPF to prevent dark marks.
Seek expert guidance from a dermatologist for large, painful breakouts to prevent acne scars before they form.

If you’re wondering how to get rid of craters in skin naturally, step one is understanding what causes them—so you can stop new scars before they start and choose the right resurfacing treatment later (like laser therapy or chemical peels) to stimulate collagen production and move toward clearer skin. Ready for next steps? Keep reading the Natural Remedies and Professional Treatments sections for gentle, proven ways to get rid of acne scars naturally.

Natural Remedies for Acne Scars

If you’re wondering how to get rid of craters in skin naturally, start with calm, gentle care. Natural remedies can’t “erase” atrophic scars like boxcar scars, rolling scars, or icepick scars overnight, but they can soften unsightly scars, support skin regeneration, and improve skin texture so it looks smoother and clearer over time.

Start with calming plants to reduce redness

Aloe vera: This gel has anti inflammatory properties that soothe irritation and help skin heals. Dab a thin layer on acne marks and surrounding skin twice a day to reduce redness and support new skin cells.
Green tea compress: Cool, steeped green tea pads can calm sensitive skin and help reduce inflammation after breakouts.
Raw honey spot mask: Short, 10–15 minute masks can comfort the top layer of skin and keep it hydrated as it repairs scar tissue.

Good to know: Calming irritation early helps prevent acne scars from forming in the first place. Gentle, steady care is an effective treatment to prevent acne scars.

Barrier-loving oils (used smartly)

Cold pressed coconut oil: Great for very dry body skin, but it can be comedogenic on acne-prone faces. If you’re breakout‑prone, skip coconut oil on your face and try non‑comedogenic options.
Better facial options: Rosehip, squalane, hemp seed, or tamanu can moisturize skin tissue, support skin regeneration, and improve the appearance of surface scars with little risk of clogging.
Vitamin E: Mixed evidence. It can help with dark marks for some but can trigger irritation for others. Patch test first.

How to use: Press 2–3 drops of oil onto damp skin to seal in moisture. A healthy barrier keeps the outer layer flexible so new collagen can organize and your skin looks more like smooth skin.

Gentle exfoliation to lift dead skin cells

To refine texture at the top layer of skin, consider mild, at‑home “chemical peels” made for sensitive skin. These are skin-friendly acids (a chemical solution) that dissolve dead skin cells rather than scrub them off.

Lactic or mandelic acid (5–10%): Good entry options that vary depending on skin type. They can brighten dark marks and smooth surface scars with less irritation, especially on darker skin.
Fruit enzymes (papaya, pumpkin): A softer polish that helps the outer layer look more even.

Tips:

Start once a week. Moisturize after.
Always use mineral SPF daily. Sun care is non‑negotiable for scar removal and to prevent new dark marks.
If stinging lasts more than a minute or you see redness that lingers, rinse and reduce frequency.

ACV, lemon juice, and other home remedies (read this first)

Apple cider vinegar: Only use highly diluted (at least 1:10 with water) as a short, rinse‑off toner. Undiluted ACV can burn the skin and worsen scars. Patch test first.
Lemon juice: Not recommended. It’s too acidic, unstable, and can cause irritation and photosensitivity—especially on darker skin. Choose lactic acid or azelaic acid products instead for safer brightening.

Bottom line: Home remedies can fade acne marks a bit, but deeper scars and severe scarring won’t budge from kitchen fixes alone.

Collagen stimulation the natural way

Microneedling treatments (collagen induction therapy) aren’t “botanical,” but they work by triggering your skin’s natural healing process to stimulate collagen production. This can soften atrophic scars over time.

At home vs. pro: Home kits with needles above 0.3 mm carry infection and scarring risks, especially for darker skin. For effective treatments on deeper scars, see a dermatologist.
In-office microneedling can improve atrophic acne scars with more control and hygiene, and usually a shorter, safer recovery time.
Not for raised scars: Hypertrophic scars and keloid scars often respond better to steroid injections and other treatment options guided by a doctor.

Note: For very deep icepick scars, professional care (like punch excision, dermabrasion, or later, laser treatments/laser therapy or laser resurfacing) may be needed. These options have their own risks and benefits and are best chosen with expert guidance.

The Glean way to simplify your routine

We love a routine that’s honestly effective and easy. Our Qasil-based 3‑in‑1 ritual gently cleanses, polishes, and masks in one step to help get rid of acne scars naturally over time:

Lifts dead skin cells from the top layer for a subtle resurfacing treatment.
Soothes sensitive skin with plant-powered, anti inflammatory properties.
Supports skin regeneration so texture looks more even.

Ready for a simpler path to clearer skin? Explore our Qasil essentials and build a two‑minute ritual that fits real life. If you’re currently undergoing treatment with a dermatologist, bring your routine to your next visit—your doctor can help tailor it so results vary depending on your unique skin and cosmetic concerns.

Professional Treatments for Acne Scars

First, a quick reality check

If you’re wondering how to get rid of craters in skin naturally, know this: natural remedies can calm redness and support healing, but crater-like atrophic scars (boxcar, rolling, and icepick scars) often need in‑office care. Professional treatments work by nudging your own skin tissue to rebuild—think collagen production and skin regeneration—so your results look natural and improve over time.

Laser resurfacing and laser therapy

What it does: Laser treatments target the top layer of skin and the surrounding skin to lift acne marks and smooth surface scars. Fractional laser resurfacing creates tiny columns in the outer layer to stimulate collagen production without removing all the skin at once.
Best for: Atrophic acne scars (rolling and some boxcar scars), dark marks, and uneven skin texture.
Good to know: Non-ablative lasers have little risk and shorter recovery time; ablative lasers can be more effective for deeper scars but require more downtime. On darker skin, choose an experienced dermatologist to reduce the risk of post‑treatment dark marks.
Sessions: Results build over several sessions, and improvements continue as the skin heals for months.

Microneedling (collagen induction therapy)

What it does: Microneedling treatments create controlled micro‑channels in the top layer of skin, telling skin cells to make fresh collagen.
Best for: Rolling scars and shallow boxcar scars; it can soften the look of unsightly scars and improve overall skin texture.
Good to know: Redness and mild irritation are common for 1–3 days. It’s generally safe across skin tones, including darker skin, when done by a professional. Avoid “home kits” (rollers or pens) that can tear the skin, spread bacteria, and worsen scars.
Sessions: Usually a series of 3–6, spaced 4–6 weeks apart, with results that build as your skin heals.

Chemical peels

What it does: A professional chemical solution removes dead skin cells from the top layer, revealing smoother skin and fading dark marks. Medium-depth peels can reach a deeper layer of skin for more visible change.
Best for: Surface scars, acne marks, and uneven tone. For true icepick scars, a targeted technique (like TCA CROSS) may be used on individual pits.
Good to know: Peels vary depending on strength. Deeper peels mean longer recovery time. With sensitive skin or darker skin, you’ll want expert guidance to prevent irritation or pigment changes.
Sessions: Often a series; your dermatologist will adjust the peel type and strength over time.

Dermabrasion and punch excision

Dermabrasion: A resurfacing treatment that mechanically removes the outer layer to smooth surface scars and some boxcar scars. Expect more downtime than peels or microneedling and a higher chance of redness while the skin heals.
Punch excision: For deeper, narrow icepick scars, your doctor can remove the scar tissue with a tiny tool, then close or graft the area. This is precise scar removal for specific pits and may be paired with laser therapy to blend the surrounding skin. Recovery time varies depending on how many scars are treated.

Treating raised scars (hypertrophic and keloid scars)

Steroid injections: Help reduce inflammation and soften raised scars over several visits. They’re effective treatments for hypertrophic scars and some keloid scars but may not suit every skin type and can thin the top layer with overuse.
Other options: Silicone sheets, certain lasers, or a mix of treatments can help flatten raised scars. Your dermatologist will tailor the plan if you have severe scarring.

Safety, skin tone, and life stage considerations

Darker skin: Ask about lasers and peels proven safe for your tone to avoid new dark marks.
Sensitive skin: Start with gentler options and longer gaps between sessions to reduce irritation and redness.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Many in‑office treatments are delayed until after delivery or weaning—always check with your doctor first.
Active acne: Treat breakouts before scar procedures to prevent new scars and protect healing skin.

What to expect during and after treatment

Plan: Most people need a blend of treatment options—laser therapy plus microneedling, or punch excision followed by a light peel.
Timeline: Collagen takes time to rebuild. Expect gradual changes over 3–6 months as the skin heals.
Aftercare: Be diligent with sun protection, gentle cleansing, and barrier‑friendly moisture. Skip harsh home remedies like straight lemon juice, undiluted apple cider vinegar, raw coconut oil, or heavy vitamin E on the face—they can trigger irritation, clog pores, and slow the healing process. If you want something calming, ask your dermatologist if aloe vera is a fit for you.
Results: Treatments reduce the appearance of scars and help you get closer to smooth skin, but no method can erase every scar.

How to choose the right expert

Look for a board‑certified dermatologist with before/after photos of acne scars on skin like yours.
Ask about recovery time, risks, costs, and how results vary depending on scar type (rolling scars vs. boxcar scars vs. icepick scars) and skin tone.
Share your cosmetic concerns, medical history, and any natural remedies you plan to use while undergoing treatment.

Gentle support while you heal: Pair your in‑office plan with simple, soothing care at home. We keep routines minimal to protect the top layer of skin while your collagen does the heavy lifting. Ready to simplify? Explore our qasil-powered essentials built for sensitive skin and busy lives.

Minimizing the Appearance of Acne Scars

Your simple daily plan: sun care + gentle exfoliation

Sunscreen is non‑negotiable. UV light darkens acne marks and slows how the skin heals. Use a broad‑spectrum, mineral SPF 30+ every morning to protect the top layer of skin and the surrounding skin. This helps prevent new dark marks and keeps unsightly scars from looking deeper.
Exfoliate, but be kind. Gentle exfoliation lifts dead skin cells from the outer layer and smooths skin texture over time. Think 1–3 times per week, not daily. Enzyme or low‑strength lactic acid can be enough for sensitive skin.
Looking for a natural nudge? Our Qasil-powered ritual is a simply smart way to get rid of rough texture, naturally. Qasil’s fine powder acts as a mild polish on the top layer of skin and has anti‑inflammatory properties that help reduce redness. One jar, three jobs: cleanse, mask, and gentle exfoliant. Ready for clearer skin? Explore Glean’s 3‑in‑1 Qasil routine.

Natural remedies that actually support healing

Aloe vera gel: calms irritation and helps skin regeneration without clogging pores.
Vitamin E: use in a balanced formula, not straight from a capsule, to moisturize skin tissue and support the healing process.
Cold pressed coconut oil: nourishing for body care, but it can clog pores on acne‑prone faces. If you break out, skip raw coconut oil and use non‑comedogenic options instead.
Apple cider vinegar and lemon juice: often suggested as home remedies, but they can burn the top layer of skin and worsen redness. If you try them, dilute heavily and patch test—or better yet, choose gentler, proven options.
Tip: Natural remedies help with acne scars naturally by calming inflammation and softening surface scars, but they can’t “scar removal” deeper scars like icepick scars or boxcar scars.

Resurfacing treatments for smoother texture

Chemical peels: a controlled chemical solution removes the top layer to reveal smoother skin. Light peels improve surface scars and acne marks with little risk and short recovery time. Stronger peels target atrophic scars but need expert guidance.
Dermabrasion and microdermabrasion: these resurfacing treatments sand or polish the outer layer to even out texture. Dermabrasion is deeper and may require downtime; microdermabrasion is milder for surface scars.
Best for: rolling scars and shallow boxcar scars that live closer to the top layer of skin.

Boost collagen where craters form

Microneedling treatments (collagen induction therapy): tiny needles create micro‑channels that stimulate collagen production and skin regeneration. This helps fill atrophic acne scars over time. In‑office sessions are more precise than home kits and lower the chance of irritation or infection.
Laser therapy and laser resurfacing: fractional laser treatments heat the layer of skin under scars to stimulate collagen and smooth the surface. Results build over multiple sessions; recovery time and settings vary depending on skin type and depth of scars.
For deeper scars: punch excision can remove tight icepick scars, and a dermatologist can combine it with laser treatments for the surrounding skin.
Note: Raised scars (hypertrophic scars and keloid scars) need different care. Steroid injections can reduce thick, raised scars; lasers can soften redness. Talk to your dermatologist about the right treatment options.

Calm inflammation to prevent new scars

Keep breakouts gentle: spot‑treat and moisturize so the skin barrier stays strong. Less irritation = fewer severe scarring risks.
Choose anti‑inflammatory care: niacinamide, centella, and Qasil help reduce inflammation and redness on sensitive skin.
If you’re undergoing treatment (like a peel or laser), avoid harsh scrubs or at‑home acids until your doctor gives the all‑clear. Healthy restraint speeds results.

Smart wound care: stop picking and help skin heal

Don’t pick or pop. This pushes bacteria deeper and damages skin cells, creating atrophic scars.
Use hydrocolloid patches on active acne to protect the area and support a cleaner healing process.
Cleanse, treat, moisturize, then SPF—daily. Simple consistency beats aggressive routines and lowers cosmetic concerns long‑term.
Prevent acne scars by treating acne early and keeping hands off your face.

A quick note for darker skin tones

Darker skin is more prone to dark marks and post‑inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Chemical peels, laser treatments, and dermabrasion should be tailored to your tone to avoid unwanted light or dark patches. Look for a board‑certified dermatologist who has deep experience with your skin type, and ask about gentle settings and longer recovery time between sessions.

When to see a professional

If you have deeper scars (icepick scars, severe scarring) or raised scars, you’ll get the best results with a dermatologist. They can layer effective treatments—like microneedling, laser therapy, steroid injections, or punch excision—safely.
As trusted resources like RVO Health and board‑certified doctors note, results vary depending on scar type, your skin, and your routine. Most people need a series of sessions, patience, and daily sun protection.

Warm, honest reminder: If you want a natural first step on how to get rid of craters in skin naturally, start with gentle cleansing and exfoliation you’ll actually enjoy. Our Qasil ritual keeps it easy—just one step to cleanse, mask, and polish toward smooth skin. Try Glean today, and let’s build happy skin, one simple ritual at a time.

Home Care for Acne-Prone Skin

If you’re wondering how to get rid of craters in skin naturally, start here. Smart daily care calms acne, protects the top layer of skin, and supports skin regeneration so future scars are less likely. It won’t “erase” deeper scars like boxcar scars or icepick scars, but it does improve skin texture and helps you get closer to smooth skin over time.

Cleanse gently (and keep your barrier happy)

Use a mild, fragrance‑free cleanser morning and night. Harsh soaps can strip the outer layer and trigger more oil, redness, and irritation.
Look for barrier‑friendly formulas that leave skin soft, not tight. For sensitive skin and acne, simple is best.
A 3‑in‑1 powder cleanser-mask-exfoliant made with gentle botanicals (like our Qasil ritual) can simplify your routine and support clearer skin without overdoing it.

Tip: Hands off hot water and rough washcloths. Think lukewarm rinse, light touch.

Exfoliate wisely to lift dead skin cells

2–3 times per week, use a gentle “chemical solution” (think low-strength BHA from willow bark or enzyme exfoliants). This helps clear dead skin cells from the top layer of skin, unclog pores, and soften surface scars and acne marks.
Skip gritty scrubs that can inflame skin tissue. Microtears slow the healing process and may increase unsightly scars over time.
Be careful with at‑home chemical peels and home kits. Strengths vary, pH can be unpredictable, and results vary depending on skin type—especially for darker skin, which is more prone to dark marks. If you’re curious about stronger peels, save them for a dermatologist.

Why it matters: Gentle exfoliation supports skin regeneration and better texture, while reducing the chance of new scar tissue forming.

Moisturize + protect the top layer

Hydrate daily with a non‑comedogenic moisturizer to protect the outer layer and soothe irritation. A steady moisture level helps skin heals more evenly.
Add antioxidants (like green tea or vitamin E in low, well‑tolerated amounts) to defend the top layer of skin from environmental stressors.
Daily mineral SPF is non‑negotiable. Sun darkens acne marks and can make scars look deeper. Protecting the surrounding skin helps even the overall appearance.

Note on oils: Cold pressed coconut oil is lovely for body care, but it can be comedogenic on acne‑prone faces. If you’re breaking out, keep coconut oil off facial skin and choose lighter options.

Natural support that actually helps

Aloe vera: Known for anti inflammatory properties that reduce redness and help skin cells stay calm as they repair.
Honey or oat soaks (patch‑tested): Gentle ways to soothe sensitive skin without clogging.
Vitamin E: Best used in low doses within a balanced formula. Straight oil can be heavy for acne‑prone skin.
Be cautious with home remedies like lemon juice or apple cider vinegar. Undiluted acids can burn, irritate, and worsen scars. If you use them at all, keep them off the face.

Reality check: Natural remedies can help fade acne scars naturally in a gradual way, but they won’t lift atrophic scars (like rolling scars or atrophic acne scars) on their own.

What to skip to reduce inflammation

No picking or popping. Pressure damages skin tissue and can turn acne into deeper scars or raised scars (hypertrophic scars and keloid scars).
Avoid harsh toners, high‑alcohol formulas, or undisclosed “fragrance.” These spike irritation and prolong redness.
Steer clear of DIY microneedling treatments and needling home kits. Collagen induction therapy should be done by a pro—doing it yourself risks infection and severe scarring.

When home care meets pro care

Great home habits prevent acne and protect the layer of skin you’re in. If craters are your main cosmetic concerns, some effective treatments require expert guidance:

Microneedling treatments (in‑office collagen induction therapy) can stimulate collagen production to soften atrophic scars.
Chemical peels (professionally applied chemical solution) and dermabrasion are resurfacing treatment options for surface scars and acne marks; recovery time and results vary depending on skin tone and depth.
Laser treatments, including laser therapy and laser resurfacing, can remodel scar tissue with little risk to the surrounding skin when performed by a dermatologist.
For raised scars, a doctor may suggest steroid injections.
Deeper scars from cystic acne may need punch excision or combined approaches for the best appearance.

Always check with a dermatologist before undergoing treatment—especially if you have darker skin—to choose the safest plan and prevent new dark marks. For deeper reading, stick with reputable sources (like dermatology clinics or RVO Health publications) and skip the hype.

Your simple, skin‑loving routine

Cleanse gently.
Exfoliate 2–3x weekly to lift dead skin cells.
Moisturize and protect the top layer daily.
Use natural remedies that reduce inflammation (aloe vera) and skip the ones that sting (lemon juice, straight apple cider vinegar).
Get expert guidance for deeper or severe scarring.

Want to simplify even more? Try a 3‑in‑1 ritual that does the cleanse, gentle exfoliation, and mask step in one—so you can care for acne, prevent acne scars, and keep moving. That’s the kind of easy that leads to clearer skin, with real results you can see and feel.

Lifestyle Changes for Healthier Skin

Eat for calm skin and steady collagen

Food won’t erase acne scars overnight, but it can reduce inflammation and support how your skin heals. Think simple, colorful plates:

Protein at each meal (beans, eggs, poultry, tofu) gives skin cells the building blocks for collagen.
Vitamin C–rich produce (citrus, berries, bell peppers) helps your body synthesize collagen and support skin regeneration.
Omega‑3s (salmon, sardines, walnuts, chia) have anti inflammatory properties that can ease redness.
Cut back on ultra‑processed snacks and high sugar drinks that can spike inflammation and slow the healing process.

This is one small way to support “how to get rid of craters in skin naturally” by helping your body rebuild the layer of skin beneath atrophic scars.

Move, breathe, and lower stress

Daily movement boosts circulation, bringing nutrients to the outer layer and surrounding skin. Even a brisk 20‑minute walk helps. Pair it with quick stress resets—box breathing, a short stretch, or a 5‑minute meditation. Lower stress = steadier hormones, less picking, and fewer new breakouts that turn into scar tissue.

Sleep and hydration: simple wins

Aim for 7–9 hours. During deep sleep, your skin heals and makes new collagen.
Drink water steadily through the day. Well‑hydrated skin looks smoother, which can soften the look of surface scars and acne marks. Add electrolytes if you’re nursing, exercising, or live in a hot climate.

Sun and smoke: small habits, big impact

UV exposure deepens dark marks and can make atrophic acne scars look more visible by breaking down collagen. Wear a broad‑spectrum mineral SPF daily, reapply outdoors, and use hats. Skip tanning beds. If you smoke, seek support to quit—smoking slows skin regeneration and hurts collagen production.

Note for darker skin: diligent sun protection helps prevent hyperpigmentation around scars so your skin texture and tone improve together.

Tailor your routine to your skin type

Your path will vary depending on sensitivity and tone:

Sensitive skin: keep your routine gentle to avoid irritation that delays healing.
Oilier or acne‑prone skin: consistent, non‑stripping cleansing and hands‑off habits help prevent acne (and future scars).
Darker skin: focus on sun safety and soothing steps to limit post‑inflammatory dark marks while you work on texture.

Staying consistent with these basics makes any resurfacing treatment—like chemical peels or microneedling treatments done by a pro—work better with little risk of setbacks.

Pair lifestyle with treatments, wisely

If you’re undergoing treatment for deeper scars—such as laser therapy, laser resurfacing, dermabrasion, or punch excision—healthy habits speed recovery time and support results. Protein, vitamin C, sleep, SPF, and no picking are your best friends. These steps help your provider stimulate collagen production more effectively, so atrophic scars (boxcar scars, rolling scars, icepick scars) soften over time.

Tip for DIY‑ers: skip at‑home microneedling home kits on face scars. Collagen induction therapy is best guided by a dermatologist to avoid raised scars, keloid scars, or irritation.

When to get expert guidance

Lifestyle changes go far, but severe scarring or hypertrophic scars need targeted care. A dermatologist or trusted doctor can map treatment options to your goals, skin type, and tone, and build a plan that fits your life stage (pregnancy, postpartum, breastfeeding).

Warm nudge: Want a routine that keeps things simple while you focus on these habits? Explore Glean’s easy, all‑in‑one Qasil ritual—gentle for daily use, designed to soothe sensitive skin, and support clearer skin and smooth skin as your lifestyle changes do their work.

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