Uneven, pitted cheeks that makeup can't quite cover, acne scars that stand out right after you wash your face. Even once the breakouts themselves calm down, the scar texture often doesn't smooth itself out.

In this post, we walk through how RE2O, an ECM-class skin booster used at LIBHIB Clinic near Gangnam Station, works, how it's approached for acne scarring, what to expect before and after treatment, and answers to common questions.

Results vary depending on the type and depth of scarring and individual skin condition, so an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan should be determined through a consultation with a specialist.

About RE2O

An ECM-class skin booster that addresses regeneration and elasticity together

RE2O is an ECM (extracellular matrix) class skin booster that stimulates the production of collagen and elastin, the components that make up your skin's structure. Rather than simply adding hydration, it works on the dermis's own regenerative capacity, which is closely tied to acne scar care, since scarring means the skin's structure needs to be rebuilt after inflammation has broken it down.

Why now

Why doesn't acne scarring just fade on its own over time?

When acne inflammation is severe or long-lasting, collagen and elastin in the dermis often can't regenerate evenly, leaving behind indented or uneven texture. On top of that, as natural collagen production declines with age, the contrast between scarred areas and surrounding skin can actually become more noticeable. Calming inflammation alone doesn't rebuild the skin structure that's already broken down, which is why it's worth considering both together.

Good candidates

If any of the following sound familiar, a consultation with a specialist is recommended

1. You want overall skin regeneration alongside improvement of acne scars and smaller marks
2. The scarred area looks uneven and lacks elasticity
3. You're bothered by scar texture that makeup doesn't fully cover
4. You want to speed up regeneration and recovery after laser or peeling treatments
5. You want natural improvement without incisions or significant downtime

Before care

Good to check before your treatment

If you have active inflammatory acne, it's safer to calm the inflammation first before treatment. If you've had other recent skin procedures like laser or peeling, or are taking medication (particularly anything affecting blood clotting), let the medical staff know beforehand. If you're pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a history of skin allergies, whether to proceed should also be confirmed during a pre-treatment consultation.

Procedure

The treatment proceeds in the following steps

1. Step 01. Detailed consultation and skin analysisChecking scar type, depth, and area to plan the treatment approach.
2. Step 02. Topical anesthesiaNumbing cream is applied to the treatment area and given time to fully absorb.
3. Step 03. RE2O injectionEvenly injected into the dermis across the scarred area and surrounding skin to encourage regeneration.
4. Step 04. Soothing and hydrating maskA calming mask reduces redness and swelling, followed by aftercare guidance.

After care

Things to keep in mind before and after treatment

1. Avoid saunas, hot baths, strenuous exercise, and alcohol on the day of treatment.
2. Swelling, redness, or minor bruising usually settles within a few days.
3. Avoid rubbing or pressing firmly on the treated area for a few days.
4. Apply sunscreen generously and reapply often for one week after treatment.
5. Staying hydrated and keeping skin moisturized supports recovery.

Clinic checklist

Worth confirming together during your consultation

Identifying your scar type

• Whether it's an indented atrophic scar or a raised hypertrophic scar changes the approach.
• RE2O is mainly used for atrophic scarring and texture improvement through collagen and elastin regeneration.

Combination treatments

• For deeper scarring, combining with treatments like subcision or needle RF can be discussed during your consultation.
• The order and spacing of combined treatments depends on individual skin condition and is decided through consultation.

"Improving acne scars is less about any single treatment and more about designing a combination that fits the scar type." — LIBHIB Clinic consultation guide

Common questions

Frequently asked questions

Does RE2O work on acne scars right away?

This varies by individual, but many people notice changes around the 4-week mark as collagen and elastin regeneration progresses. Effects become more noticeable after an initial course of 3-5 sessions spaced 2-4 weeks apart.

Can it still help if the scarring is deep?

This depends on the depth and type of scarring. Deeper, more indented scars may need to be combined with other treatments like subcision, which is determined through consultation.

Is the treatment painful?

Numbing cream is used during treatment, but pain tolerance varies by individual. Let the medical staff know at any point if you feel discomfort.

How many sessions are usually needed?

An initial course of 3-5 sessions spaced 2-4 weeks apart is typically recommended, followed by maintenance sessions based on your skin's condition.

Curious about this treatment?