6 Ways To Help Your Scars Look Better
Some scars tell stories, however, not all scars are worth showing off. While it may not be possible to completely eliminate scars, there are a few methods to making them less noticeable. Before choosing which scar therapy is right for you, it is important to take the time to learn about different types of scars and your skin’s anatomy. Also take into consideration each method’s effectiveness, risks, and costs.
A scar is the skin’s natural healing process to replace damaged skin, which can occur during trauma, surgery, and even from skin conditions such as acne. The body replaces the damaged skin cells with fibrous tissue. This tissue is made of the same type of collagen of normal skin, but just arranged in a different pattern, creating not only a difference in appearance but also in functionality. This tissue is less resistant to sunlight, burning much more easily and is at higher risk for skin cancer development. Also, scars do not have sweat glands or hair follicles.
There are different types of scar formations. Due to the formation of too much collagen, most scars are hypertrophic, which means they become raised above surrounding skin. Wound infection, trauma, or surgical scars with excess tension are at higher risk for hypertrophic formation. Atrophic scars appear as “pits” or “sunken skin” and occur when supporting skin, fat or muscle is lost. Acne scars are the most common form of atrophic scarring. Scars may also have pigmentation changes. When the scar is darker than surrounding skin, it is called hyperpigmented and when lighter than surrounding skin, the scar is referred to as hypopigmented.
Various treatments exist for scar therapy, depending on severity and type:
Chemical peels are a commonly used method for superficial scars, such as acne scarring, by destroying the epidermis and exfoliating the surface of the skin.
Collagen induction therapy is another method used for superficial scars. This procedure uses tiny, sterile needles to repeatedly puncture skin to induce healthy collagen formation.
Dermabrasion is another useful method which removes the surface of the skin to promote even, smooth skin rejuvenation.
For atrophic scars, filler injections may be of benefit. By injecting collagen directly into the affected lesion, the surface of the skin is raised to the level of surrounding skin.
For hypertrophic scars, steroids are commonly used. Steroids can be applied topically or injected directly into the lesion.
One of the growing modalities of scar therapy includes laser treatment to treat both hypertrophic and atrophic scars. Multiple sessions may be needed depending on skin type and scarring. Scars may be managed surgically by scar revision. The affected tissue is excised and normal skin is brought together and sutured. This allows scars to be made smaller, thinner, and less noticeable.
Protecting your skin before and after trauma or surgery with topical therapies may be of benefit. Vitamin E oil is a commonly used treatment to apply after surgeries to promote healthy wound healing. Another useful topical is Vitamin C, which also helps fade scar hyperpigmentation. Keeping skin well moisturized and protected from the sun cannot be overstated. Apply a hypoallergenic, ceramide rich sunscreen daily, such as Cerave AM moisturizing cream. While we can’t prevent scars from forming, we can utilize various methods and therapies to help minimize scar appearance. As always, ask your local dermatology provider which treatment is best for you.
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- Aimee Davis, PA-C
If you enjoyed this article, see our recent one on Prevent Acne Scars and Large Pores with These Tips
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