Acne scars are one of the main reasons people choose radiofrequency microneedling: the rolling and boxcar scars that sit below the surface are held down by bands in the deeper layer of the skin. Genius places heat at the depth the scar sits, through 49 fine needles, and the skin repairs the treated columns with new collagen that raises the floor of the scar. A 2025 review of 16 studies and 481 patients found radiofrequency microneedling likely an effective treatment for acne scars. A 2026 meta-analysis against the fractional carbon dioxide laser found a slightly smaller effect, less pain and a quarter of the darkening risk. Three sessions four to six weeks apart, at Lutronic Genius RF London, 8 Devonshire Place, with the price in writing at a free consultation.
What the studies measured
- 16 studies, 481 patients, 2025: radiofrequency microneedling "likely an effective treatment" for acne scars.
- 30 patients enrolled, 26 finished, skin types III to V, 2014: three sessions a month apart; 42% rated their scars 26% to 50% better at six months; average pain 5.6 out of 10; a passing change in pigment in some.
- Against the carbon dioxide laser, 8 trials and 249 patients, 2026: the laser scored slightly better on scar scales, radiofrequency microneedling scored lower for pain, and the laser carried more than four times the risk of darkening the skin. A 2026 randomised trial of 30 patients found no significant difference between the two, with a shorter recovery after the radiofrequency.
These are studies of the treatment as a class on several devices; we found no published study of Genius itself on acne scars, and we say so.
Which scars respond
In our clinical judgment rolling scars, the soft dips with sloping edges, respond best, boxcar scars, the flat-bottomed pits, respond well, and ice-pick scars, the narrow deep holes, respond least, so we often plan another treatment alongside for them. A 2025 review found improvement in every type of depressed acne scar, with the response varying by type. Red marks and brown marks left after spots are discolouration rather than scars, and in our experience they often fade on their own or with other treatment. Active acne is brought under control first: it is on the list of reasons to wait, and new scars can form while it is active.
The session and after
Numbing cream for 30 to 45 minutes in our practice, then the tip stamped across the scarred areas at the depth set for them, 20 to 45 minutes. Redness and swelling for one to three days, sometimes five, light crusting for up to five days in our experience, no make-up on the first day, and sunscreen every day. The improvement builds over the months after each session as the collagen rebuilds, with the review and your photographs three months after the third. The does it hurt page sets out the comfort plan and the risks.
Who it suits
Adults with acne scars on most skin types, darker skin included after assessment, whose acne is under control. Darker skin is treated at lower energy after a patch test in our practice, because darkening is the main risk in darker skin. The lower darkening risk in the laser comparisons above is why many clinicians prefer radiofrequency microneedling where darkening is the concern. Not with active acne or a cold sore in the area, keloid scarring, recent isotretinoin (Roaccutane), or the other items on the list the clinician goes through. The full guide covers the rest.
Not sure you are suitable? Ask the clinician, it is free
Book a free consultation
Call Lutronic Genius RF London on 0207 099 9643 or use the form below. The clinician looks at the scars, names the depth and the course, and gives you the price in writing.
