Subcutaneous incisionless surgery, also known as subcision, is a minimally invasive procedure that is commonly indicated for the treatment of atrophic acne scars. In recent years, many new techniques have been developed to maximize results from this procedure. This review article aims to identify an updated list of instruments and combinatorial treatments available for atrophic acne scar patients undergoing subcision. We constructed a comprehensive PubMed search term and performed triple-blinded screening on all resulting studies for mentions of subcision as indicated by acne scarring. Our results show that there are four main categories of subcision tools that are commonly employed to treat atrophic acne scars: needles, cannulas, wires, and blunt-blade instruments. Usage of these devices varies by scar depth, personal preference, and combinatorial treatment options. Overall, subcision is a particularly effective treatment for atrophic acne scars, and there is vast potential for further innovation with this technique.

Post-acne scarring is a common consequence of acne vulgaris with no universal cure. Although there have been many recent advances to address acne scars physically, there is still a lack of research that investigates their psychosocial impacts. Our comprehensive PubMed search presents an overview of existing information to highlight known sources of mental distress caused by post-acne scarring, both related to and independent of the psychosocial detriments caused early on by active acne. The literature indicates that acne scarring is a distinct condition from acne vulgaris and therefore requires a comprehensive clinical approach unique from those available for active acne.