When an injury to the skin occurs, cells called fibroblasts produce collagen fibers to fill the wound. These patches of collagen, or scars, are often redder, thicker and shinier than nearby skin, which makes them noticeable and of cosmetic concern. Some scars fade or shrink over time. While it is not possible to completely remove a scar, many options exist for shrinking or fading them to make them less noticeable.
Creams and Gels
Over-the-counter scar remedies, such as alpha hydroxy acids and scar-reducing gels, are 25 to 50 percent effective at minimizing the size and darkening of scars, according to Columbia University. Certain scar-reducing gels may work as an anti-inflammatory and inhibitor of collagen production. Onion extract is available in gel form for a considerably lower price. Alpha-hydroxy acids, or AHA, can reduce redness in dark-colored scars and are especially beneficial for acne scars. AHA works by exfoliating the skin to gradually make scars appear closer in color and texture to surrounding skin.
Pressure Treatments and Silicon Gel
Pressure treating involves wrapping scars with bandages or wearing pressure garments to flatten them. Silicon gel or sheeting flattens and lightens scars when applied directly to the affected area, although the mechanism behind this beneficial effect is unclear, according to Columbia University. Both of these treatment options can be performed at home by the patient, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.
Injections
Protruding scars, such as hypertrophic and keloid scars, may respond to steroid injections. Injections of steroid medication can reduce redness and itching, as well as stop collagen production inside the scar, according to the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Collagen injections and other fillers can level pitted scars with the surrounding skin, but this scar treatment option is rarely permanent.
Laser Surgery
Laser surgery is useful for removing keloid, hypertrophic and atrophic scars. During laser surgery, a laser moves along the scar, removing the top layer of skin to expose the healthier skin below. As this healthier skin heals, the scar becomes less noticeable. The Consumer Guide to Plastic Surgery states that laser treatment effectively minimizes the appearance of scars by as much as 80 percent and helps prevent scars from recurring. Laser surgery is not suitable for people with certain skin conditions, such as cystic acne, dermatitis or psoriasis.
Dermabrasion
Dermabrasion is primarily used to treat pitting from chicken pox, acne scars and scars caused by disease or injury, according to the American Society for Dermatological Surgery. The procedure works by sanding away the top layer of skin with a special tool so that a layer of smoother, healthier skin can take its place. Healing from the procedure is usually complete within three months.
Skin Grafts and Excision
Large or multiple scars may be treated with excision or skin grafts, depending on the type of scar present. Skin grafts taken from other areas of the body can help burns or depressed scars by raising them to the level of the surrounding skin. Excision is the cutting away of scar tissue. It is beneficial for raised scars that are too large for or fail to respond to steroid injections and other treatments.
References
- Consumer Guide to Plastic Surgery: Laser Scar Removal -- Is it Right for You?
- Columbia University, Go Ask Alice!: Embarrassing Scars - How Can I Get Rid of Them?
- American Society for Dermatological Surgery: Dermabrasion Information
- American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery: Types of Scars and How to Minimize Their Visibility
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