EFFICACY OF INTRALESIONAL NORMAL SALINE FOR THE TREATMENT OF ATROPHIC ACNE SCARS

Abstract

Background: Atrophic acne scarring is a common sequel of acne vulgaris and has a marked negative impact on quality of life of patients. Conventional treatment modalities are often costly, invasive, and associated with adverse effects. Intralesional normal saline has emerged as a simple, minimally invasive, and cost-effective alternative.

Objective: To determine the efficacy of intralesional normal saline in the treatment of atrophic acne scars.

Methodology: This descriptive case series was conducted in the Department of Dermatology, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Lahore, from August 2025 to November 2025. A total of 70 patients with moderate to severe atrophic acne scars were enrolled. Intralesional normal saline (0.1–0.3 mL) was injected into each scar weekly for six sessions. Efficacy was assessed using the Goodman and Baron qualitative score at baseline and one month after completion of last session.

Results: Mean age of the participants was 27.8 ± 6.4, among them 38 (54.3) were females and 32 (45.7) were males. One grade reduction was considered good response and two-grade reduction, a very good response. Both good and very good response was considered efficacious.  Efficacy was achieved in 62.9% of the patients, with 41.4% demonstrating a good response and 21.5% a very good response. Rolling and boxcar scars showed significantly better response compared to ice-pick scars (p < 0.05). Adverse effects were limited to only transient erythema (17%) and pain (14%).

Conclusion: Intralesional normal saline is an effective and safe treatment option for the treatment of atrophic acne scars, demonstrating better outcomes in rolling and boxcar scars.