Scars are areas of fibrous tissue that replace normal skin after an injury. A scar results from the biological process of wound repair in the skin and other tissues of the body. Thus, scarring is a natural part of the healing process.
Scars can occur inside and outside the body and are formed due to the production of excess collagen that creates tissue that is thicker and tougher than the surrounding skin. As no new cells are generated where scars are, scars often start out being very red or purple in color but usually fade to a pink or silver color over time.
Two of the most common types of scars are hypertrophic scarring (described as a thick and raised scar) and keloid scarring (a very dense and thick scar that may grow), both of which experience excessive stiff collagen that bundles into a growth.
Causes
-
Cuts made during surgery
-
Accidental injuries and cuts
-
Severe acne
-
Complications from certain skin conditions such as chickenpox
-
Burns and scalds from hot objects or liquids
-
Infection
Treatment
Due to the variety of types of scars and their reasons for formation, finding the right treatment can be tricky.
For recent injuries of any kind, topical, medical creams are effective in reducing the appearance of future scars.
Cool Lasers are also used to expedite the body’s healing process, and to ensure that scars are less apparent once fully healed.
Once the scar has healed, treatment focuses on the fibers that have been damaged, this is generally done with Carboxy Therapy, CO2 Fractional Laser, and Micro-needling.
Our doctors might also recommend the use of Cryotherpy or small surgical procedures to break fibrous tissue and flatten scars.
Corticosteroid injections, Laser, Cryotherapy, Fluorouracil and Bleomycin injections, and radiation are preferred for keloid scarring.
Tips
-
Follow a strict post-operative scar regime as recommended by your doctor
-
Try not to agitate the area
-
Camouflage the area with a fake tan