Ice pick scars earned their name from their unique appearance on the skin. According to WebMD, these scars are sunken or pitted marks, as if the skin was pierced by an ice pick. The indentations are small — less than two millimeters wide — but deeper than all other types of scars (via Healthline).

Ice pick scars are caused by cystic acne and other types of acne that form deep in the pores. According to Medical News Today, people who suffer from severe acne are most at risk for developing these pits. People whose skin is deficient in collagen may also be more likely to develop ice pick scars. Other risk factors include picking at acne spots, having a close family member with acne scars, or not receiving proper acne treatment.

Ice pick scars are especially common on highly visible areas of the forehead and upper cheeks, and that can make treating these scars feel even more crucial (via Acne Support).