Marks remaining after acne
Boxcar Scars
Related terms · Boxcar scars · Box-type
Boxcar scars are atrophic acne scars that are relatively wide with clearly defined borders.
Overview
Boxcar scars: check these three things first
- Boxcar scars refer to atrophic scars that have a relatively wide opening and clearly defined edges.
- In the same area Icepick-type·Rolling scars may be mixed in, so we examine the shape, depth, and range by changing the lighting and angle.
- If new inflammation continues to occur, we will create a plan to stabilize active acne first rather than rushing straight into scar treatments.
Meaning and Distinction
What are boxcar scars?
They vary in depth and slope and can appear alongside other types of scars. Boxcar scars are relatively wide and have clearly defined edges Atrophic acne scars.
- Easily confused terms
- The opening is wider than icepick scars Rolling-typeand the edges may be more distinct.
- Why this is checked during medical evaluation
- The choice of procedure may vary depending on the shape and depth of the scar.
- Information to prepare for your visit
- Please also check if active inflammation is decreasing first.
More details
Connecting boxcar scars to your symptoms
Distinguishing the edges and the depth of the base even within the same scar
We check whether the edges appear nearly vertical under front and side lighting, and whether the base is shallow and wide or deeply recessed. Observing how the shadows change when the skin is gently pulled by hand and whether the scars are connected to each other helps in determining the scope of the procedure during the consultation.
A single scar name does not equal a single procedure
Even if they appear to be boxcar scars, the approach may vary depending on the depth, skin thickness, pigmentation, erythema, and the mixture of other scar types. We also review previous laser, peeling, or regeneration treatments, as well as the reactions, recovery period, and whether new acne has occurred.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions when looking into boxcar scars
Are all square-shaped indentations boxcar scars?
It is difficult to confirm with a single photo. During the examination, we check the width, depth, slope of the edges, changes when the skin is pulled, and whether other types of scars are mixed in.
Do boxcar scars disappear after a single procedure?
It depends on the depth and range of the scars, the chosen procedure, and the recovery response. Rather than promising complete removal, first discuss the expected changes, number of sessions, side effects, and recovery period.
Acne Glossary
Compare similar terms here
You can check simple definitions before proceeding to detailed explanations.Read More
Check guides where this term is used
- Condition GuideAtrophic (pitted) acne scarsPitted acne scars are divided into icepick (narrow and deep), boxcar (relatively angular borders), and rolling (wide and gently undulating) types, and these can be mixed in one area. Even if they are red or brown, if the surface is flat, they may be post-inflammatory marks. Korean herbal medicine cannot promise to fill an already pitted dermal structure; we distinguish between the role of reducing recurrent inflammation and recovery conditions that create new scars, and the actual scar procedures.→
- Condition GuideAcne scarsAcne scar symptoms are divided into atrophic scars, where the skin is indented, and hypertrophic or keloid scars, which are firmly raised. Indented scars may be a mix of ice-pick (narrow and deep), boxcar (relatively distinct borders), and rolling (wide and wavy) types. Conversely, flat red or brown changes remaining after acne may be post-inflammatory erythema or hyperpigmentation and should be distinguished from scars where the skin structure has changed. If new acne continues to appear, or if there is pus, heat, rapid swelling, acne that looks like a scar grows rapidly, or bleeding and ulcers occur, a dermatology evaluation should come first.→
- Medical Evaluation GuideIf acne reappears after improving during treatmentIf inflammation decreased during treatment but returned after stopping, it does not mean the previous treatment was a complete failure. Try to note what decreased and by how much, and which types of acne returned and how many weeks after pausing treatment. It is easier to determine the priority for the next treatment if you also examine whether maintenance therapy was needed, if the treatment was not used sufficiently due to irritation, or if the recurrence coincided with changes in menstruation, sleep, or digestion.→
- Medical Evaluation GuideIcepick, boxcar, and rolling acne scars can be mixed even within a single area→
Evidence and Update Information
The following materials were referenced to verify the basis and scope of the definitions and treatment descriptions.