Uneven Skin Texture, Large Pores, Acne Scars: How Do You Fix Them? Getting to Know Sylfirm X

Article by Obliv Young Editorial · Medically reviewed by the Obliv Young Clinic physician team · Last updated July 2026
This content is for educational purposes only and is not a medical diagnosis. Please consult a doctor for a personal skin assessment.

Many people feel their skin looks fine in dim lighting, but under bright sunlight or up close in the mirror, the texture tells a different story — large pores scattered across the cheeks and nose, subtle waviness, or shallow craters left behind by old acne. Makeup can hide these concerns temporarily, but it doesn’t address the underlying cause. This article explains what causes uneven skin texture, why skincare alone often isn’t enough, and how a technology like Sylfirm X can help support the deeper layers of skin.

Key Takeaways

• Large pores and acne scars are two different concerns. Large pores are enlarged oil-gland openings caused by excess oil and a loosened pore wall, while acne scars are depressed marks left when collagen beneath the skin has been damaged.
• Both concerns share one thing in common: weakened collagen in the deeper skin layer (dermis) — which is why surface-level skincare alone usually isn’t enough.
• Sylfirm X is an RF microneedling technology that delivers radiofrequency energy into the dermis to help stimulate new collagen production, supporting a firmer pore wall and a shallower appearance of acne scars over time.
• Results build gradually alongside collagen renewal. Treatment is typically done as a series, spaced roughly 4–6 weeks apart, with the number of sessions depending on skin condition and the doctor’s assessment.
• Outcomes vary by scar type and depth — deep ice-pick scars often require a combination of approaches, so a doctor’s assessment before planning treatment is recommended.

Uneven Skin Texture: A Concern Makeup Can’t Fully Hide

“Uneven skin texture” is an umbrella term covering several concerns — large pores, mild waviness, congested skin, and acne scars. What they share is an uneven surface, which causes light to reflect unevenly, makes makeup harder to blend smoothly, and can leave the complexion looking duller than it should.

The good news is that uneven skin texture can generally be improved. But before looking at solutions, it helps to understand exactly what you’re dealing with — “large pores” and “acne scars” may sound similar, but they occur in different layers of the skin and need to be approached differently.

Large Pores vs. Acne Scars: What’s the Difference?

Large pores are enlarged oil-gland openings that become visibly noticeable, most often around the T-zone (forehead, nose, chin) and cheeks. The main causes include:

• Genetics — the most common factor; some people are simply born with larger oil glands than others.
• Oily skin and hormones — androgen hormones stimulate oil glands to produce more sebum, which can enlarge pores.
• Age — as collagen and elastin around the pore break down, the pore wall loosens, making pores appear wider and teardrop-shaped.
• Sun exposure — breaks down collagen in the deeper skin layer, accelerating pore-wall loosening.
• Chronic clogged pores — a build-up of oil and dead skin cells can push pores to widen further.

Acne scars are atrophic (depressed) scars that form after inflamed acne damages tissue and collagen in the dermis. When the skin can’t fully repair itself, a groove or crater is left behind. They fall into three main types:

• Rolling scars — shallow, round-edged, wave-like depressions; generally the easiest of the three to treat, caused by fibrous bands pulling the skin down from beneath.
• Boxcar scars — sharply defined, angular depressions that look like pressed-in marks on the skin, shallow to moderate in depth.
• Ice-pick scars — narrow but deep, with a pointed opening resembling a needle mark; common, and generally the most difficult to treat since they extend deep into the dermis.

The key distinction: large pores come from “a loosened pore wall plus excess oil,” while acne scars come from “lost collagen beneath the skin.” Both share the same underlying issue — weakened collagen structure in the dermis — which is exactly why surface-level skincare alone isn’t enough.

Why Skincare and Exfoliation Alone Aren’t Enough

Pore-minimizing serums, clay masks, and exfoliation can genuinely make skin look “cleaner” and pores appear temporarily smaller, since they help clear excess oil and built-up dead skin cells at the pore opening. But these products only work at the epidermis, the outermost layer of skin.

The real driver behind age-related pore loosening and acne scarring lies deeper, in the dermis, where collagen and elastin live. Ordinary skincare doesn’t penetrate this layer and can’t stimulate the body to rebuild the collagen structure that’s been lost. This is why many people maintain a skincare routine for years, yet their pores and acne scars remain largely unchanged.

Addressing the root cause requires a technology that can deliver energy directly into the dermis to stimulate collagen production.

What Is Sylfirm X, and How Does It Work on Uneven Skin?

At Obliv Young, we look at skin as several distinct layers that each need targeted care (our 7-Layer approach). For large pores and acne scars sitting in the superficial-to-dermal layers, one of the technologies we turn to is Sylfirm X.

Sylfirm X is an RF microneedling device (micron-scale needles combined with radiofrequency energy). It works by inserting fine needles into the dermis while delivering RF energy through the needle tips. The resulting heat stimulates the body’s natural repair process and encourages new collagen formation in the treated area. As collagen beneath the skin becomes denser:

• The pore wall, once loosened, becomes firmer, so pores appear smaller.
• Acne scar grooves are gradually filled in from beneath, making scars look shallower and the skin surface smoother.
• Overall skin feels firmer and looks smoother as the collagen structure strengthens.

Key features of Sylfirm X:

• Two adjustable treatment modes — one focused on pigment and redness, the other focused on stimulating collagen for firmness and scar filling — allowing the doctor to tailor the treatment to each person’s concern.
• Needles work directly at the dermis, causing minimal disruption to the surface layer, making it an option for those who prefer a non-surgical approach.
• Adjustable depth and energy settings depending on the concern being treated — large pores, acne scars, or uneven texture.

A note on the evidence: RF microneedling technology (the same principle Sylfirm X is built on) is supported by published medical research. A study in Dermatologic Surgery found that over 70% of participants showed improvement in acne scar grading and the appearance of large pores, along with denser skin from new collagen formation. Research comparing RF microneedling with CO2 laser for acne scars found comparable results, with RF microneedling offering faster recovery and a lower rate of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). That said, this research studied RF microneedling technology broadly rather than any single specific device, and outcomes vary depending on skin condition, the type of concern, and individual aftercare.

What Can Sylfirm X Help With?

• Large pores — stimulates collagen around the pore wall to help it appear firmer and smaller.
• Shallow to moderate acne scars (rolling / boxcar) — fills in scar grooves from beneath for a smoother-looking surface.
• Uneven, rough texture — helps even out the overall skin surface.
• Mild fine lines and early sagging — supports a firmer-looking complexion.
• Redness and certain pigment concerns — using a specifically designed mode (assessed individually by a doctor).

Who Is Sylfirm X Suitable For — and Who Should Consult a Doctor First?

Generally suitable for:

• Those with large pores, particularly around the cheeks and T-zone.
• Those with shallow-to-moderate acne scars (rolling / boxcar).
• Those with rough, uneven texture who want a smoother-looking surface.
• Those who want to address the root cause without surgery.

Should consult a doctor for assessment first:

• Those currently experiencing significant inflamed acne.
• Those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Those with a skin infection or open wound in the treatment area.
• Those with a history of keloid scarring, or with an implanted electronic device such as a pacemaker.

How Many Sessions, When Do Results Show, and How Long Is Recovery?

Sylfirm X isn’t a one-and-done treatment, since collagen takes time to rebuild. In general:

• Number of sessions — mild texture concerns may show improvement in 2–3 sessions, while more significant acne scars or large pores often require 3–4 sessions or more.
• Spacing — sessions are typically spaced about 4–6 weeks apart to allow full collagen formation.
• Visible results — skin gradually becomes smoother and firmer over time; the effect of newly formed collagen tends to become more noticeable over several weeks, not overnight.
• Downtime — mild redness resembling a light sunburn may appear for the first 1–2 days. Most people can return to normal activities right away, with consistent sunscreen use and sun avoidance recommended early on.

We want everyone to understand, realistically, that results depend on the type and depth of the concern. Deep ice-pick scars may require a combination of approaches, and your doctor will assess and design a plan suited to your skin.

Uneven Skin Has Several Treatment Paths — How Do You Choose?

Large pores and acne scars can be approached in several ways, and each suits a different concern. This table offers an overview before you consult a doctor (see also our guide to caring for pores, acne marks, and uneven skin):

Preparing for Sylfirm X

• Tell your doctor about your health history, existing conditions, current medications, and any allergies before treatment.
• If you have inflamed acne, a skin infection, or a wound in the treatment area, have it treated first.
• Avoid strong exfoliants, retinoids, or concentrated acids for about 3–5 days before treatment (per your doctor’s guidance).
• Avoid intense sun exposure and sunburn in the days leading up to treatment.
• Get adequate rest.

Aftercare Following Sylfirm X

• Avoid touching, pressing, or rubbing the treated area for the first 24 hours.
• Cleanse gently, and avoid scrubs and strong acids until the skin has recovered.
• Apply SPF 30+ sunscreen daily and avoid intense sun exposure, as treated skin is more light-sensitive.
• Keep skin hydrated with a gentle moisturizer.
• Avoid saunas, steam rooms, and intense exercise that causes heavy sweating for about 24–48 hours.
• If you notice redness, swelling, or any unusual reaction that isn’t improving, follow up with your doctor.

Precautions and Possible Side Effects

• Mild redness, slight swelling, or a stinging, sunburn-like sensation may occur after treatment, usually improving within 1–3 days.
• Some may notice tiny pinpoint marks from the needles, which typically fade on their own within a few days.
• Those with darker or more reactive skin have a higher chance of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH); consistent sunscreen use helps reduce this risk.
• Rarer risks worth knowing about include infection or scarring, which are generally preventable when treatment is performed by an experienced doctor at a properly licensed clinic.
• Side effects and recovery time vary by individual; your doctor will explain the precautions specific to your skin.

Where Should You Get Sylfirm X Done for Safety and Results?

A treatment involving needles and radiofrequency energy depends heavily on the doctor’s assessment and technique. Before deciding, consider:

• A doctor who assesses and designs your treatment — analyzing your skin and concerns before planning, rather than using the same plan for everyone.
• Genuine, properly maintained equipment, with single-use needles for hygiene.
• A properly licensed clinic with clear hygiene and safety standards.
• Follow-up care and aftercare guidance, with access to your doctor for any questions.

At Obliv Young, every case begins with a skin scan using our Mark Vue device, which sees deeper than the naked eye, so your doctor can design an approach based on your actual skin rather than a one-size-fits-all package. With Korean-inspired techniques adapted for Thai skin, we focus on results that look natural. Learn more about our Sylfirm X program at Obliv Young, or book a consultation for a personal skin assessment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What’s the difference between large pores and acne scars?

Large pores are enlarged oil-gland openings caused by excess oil and a loosened pore wall, while acne scars are depressed marks left when acne damages collagen beneath the skin. They have different root causes and need different care, but both are linked to weakened collagen beneath the skin.

Can large pores be fixed permanently?

Pores can’t be closed completely, since they’re a natural part of skin structure. However, stimulating collagen can visibly firm the pore wall and make pores appear smaller, and ongoing maintenance helps sustain the results.

Can acne scars be treated?

Most acne scars can be made to look “shallower and smoother.” Shallower scars (rolling/boxcar) tend to respond better, while deeper scars (ice pick) often need a combination of approaches and more time.

Is Sylfirm X painful, and how long is recovery?

Numbing cream is applied before treatment to reduce sensation. Mild redness may appear for about 1–2 days afterward, and most people return to normal activities right away.

How many sessions before I see results?

This depends on your skin condition. Changes generally become noticeable after several sessions spaced about 4–6 weeks apart. Your doctor will assess the number of sessions suited to your specific concern.

Can Sylfirm X be combined with other treatments?

Yes. Many cases see good results when combined with other treatments, such as laser for dark marks or specific techniques for deep scars. Treatments are generally spaced apart, and your doctor will plan the treatment sequence suited to your skin.

Will large pores or acne scars come back after treatment?

Large pores are influenced by ongoing factors such as genetics, oil production, and age-related collagen decline, so they may appear larger again over time — this doesn’t mean the treatment didn’t work, but ongoing maintenance helps sustain results. Acne scars that have been filled in tend to hold, provided no new inflamed acne damages the skin again.

What age can you get Sylfirm X?

It’s generally suitable for adults with the skin concerns described above. There’s no fixed age requirement, but your doctor will assess your skin and health individually before treatment.

Start by Understanding Your Skin

Uneven skin texture can be improved, but it starts with understanding which layer of your skin is affected, and how deep the concern runs.

Get a free consultation with an Obliv Young specialist, including a Mark Vue skin scan, to find the approach that’s right for your skin.

📍 Obliv Young Clinic — Silom (near BTS Saint Louis)
📞 095-424-9997 | LINE: @oblivyoung