Yes — a popped or aggressively picked pimple can leave a permanent hypertrophic bump (raised) or atrophic scar (depressed), and a stubborn cyst that recurs in the same spot can encapsulate into a sebaceous cyst that needs a dermatologist to excise. Ice-pick scars make up 60 to 70% of atrophic acne scars and are V-shaped indentations into the deep dermis. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation — the dark mark left after a breakout — is not permanent but takes months to years to fade. Don’t pick. Use a hydrocolloid patch like Rael Miracle Patch, Hero Mighty Patch, or COSRX over an active whitehead to absorb fluid. For recurring cysts, ask about cortisone injections or spironolactone.