Which serum to choose
for acne scars
A red mark that lingers, a brown spot that never fades, a dip that shows in certain light: behind this question lie very different needs. The right treatment depends on the type of mark, how sensitive your skin is and the routine around it.
Red marks: soothing and the skin barrier
After an inflammatory flare-up, some marks stay pink or red — this is post-inflammatory erythema, and the skin is still sensitised. Rushing to exfoliate is rarely a good idea: an aggressive routine can prolong redness and trigger new breakouts.
Look for a serum with centella asiatica, panthenol or ceramides. Niacinamide at a low to medium concentration can also help balance the skin and strengthen the skin barrier.
Brown spots: niacinamide, vitamin C and renewing actives
Brown marks are generally linked to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. UV exposure can darken them, even long after the spot itself has gone.
Vitamin C is also an ally against pigmentation marks and a dull complexion. Used in the morning, it pairs beautifully with sun protection.
Results are gradual: allow several weeks, sometimes several months, depending on how deep the marks are and your sun exposure.
Pitted scars: a serum can support, not erase
Atrophic scars form small dips caused by damage to collagen. No serum can fill them in completely — but some actives improve radiance and skin texture over time.
How to fit your serum in without irritating your skin
In the morning: a gentle cleanser, an antioxidant or niacinamide serum, a cream if needed, then broad-spectrum sun protection — non-negotiable when you're trying to fade marks; without it, dark spots can come back.
In the evening, keep a targeted approach. Set aside two evenings for retinol, one or two for your exfoliant, and keep the other evenings for repair with centella and hydration.
Mistakes that stop marks from fading
Changing serums every two weeks — acne marks change slowly, so assess a routine over 8 to 12 weeks. Overloading your skin — combining pure vitamin C, scrubs, acids and retinol can have the opposite effect to the one you want. And above all, don't pick your spots — even a quick squeeze increases the risk of a lasting mark.
- Red marks — ANUA Niacinamide 10% + TXA — 24,90€
- Brown spots — MEISANI Glow Drops Vitamin C — 23,90€
- Texture / dips — MEISANI Blue Elixir Retinol — 24,90€
- View the Dark Spots & Radiance collection →
- Red marks = soothe first (centella, niacinamide) — no exfoliating too early.
- Brown spots = niacinamide + vitamin C, with daily SPF a must.
- Pitted scars = retinol supports, but doesn't replace a dermatological treatment.
- Assess a routine over 8 to 12 weeks, not by checking the mirror every morning.
- Treating marks without controlling active acne leads to a frustrating routine.
At Haru & Bom, the soundest approach combines targeted actives, pleasant textures and patience. Discover our dark spot treatments →
