1. Don't Make the Problems Worse
If you suffer from acne scars, for instance, you may be tempted to pop new pimples that form to prevent further deterioration of your appearance. However, by popping pimples and/or scratching at rashes on your face, you increase the likelihood of further scarring and negate any treatment efforts you undergo. For some people who suffer from extreme acne or other skin conditions, the obsessive-compulsive digging, itching and picking at the skin may be a sign of a psychological disorder. You may want to see a psychiatrist for an evaluation and course of therapy.
2. Stop Using Products and Therapies That May Be Overly Abrasive
Certain aggressive exfoliants, alkaline facial soaps and shaving instruments or gels can exacerbate skin abnormalities and prevent scar tissue from healing. The skin on your face is generally much more sensitive than skin elsewhere on the body. Protect this resource accordingly by moisturizing it daily, exfoliating it with a gentle formula and minimizing the use of astringent washes.
3. Moisturize and Use Micro Dermabrasion Techniques
You can gently flatten and lighten scars over time by micro abrading them at home. A solution of baking soda and water, for instance, can be applied in both the morning and the evening to scour away collagen and "pave the way" for healthy skin to grow in its place. Similarly, silicone gel sheet therapy, vitamin E treatment, cocoa butter application and olive oil therapy can all help moisturize problematic areas and improve the likelihood of the scar fading.
4. Injection of Corticosteroids, Cryotherapy, Excision of Scar Tissue and Other Methods
Steroid injections are often used to relieve or reduce scar tissue on burn victims. Cryotherapy involves literally freezing off bits of collagen. Surgery involves cutting out areas of the skin. These treatments may need to be repeated many times to get desired results. In all cases, therapies can be expensive, potentially contraindicated by certain conditions and somewhat imprecise. However, if you're faced with severe scarring and your standard micro abrasion techniques don't seem to be getting the job done, more aggressive treatments can provide a glimmer of hope. Talk to your doctor before engaging in these procedures.
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