A scar is characterized by the American Academy of Dermatology as a patch of skin that develops during the healing process of a wound. The depth, location and healing time of the wound often influences the look and severity of the scar. Even your age, skin type and genetics can affect the size and shape of scarring. Due to the range of factors that have a bearing on the development of scar tissue, a number of different treatments can be used to reduce the appearance of a scar.
Step 1
Consult a dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon. Medical professionals can better determine the form of treatment that can improve the appearance of your scar. Factors like type of scar tissue, location of scarring, skin type and personal expectations can all dictate the method used to treat the scar.
Step 2
Apply a layer of silicone over the scar, suggest the American Academy of Dermatology. Creams, bandages and pads containing silicone can smooth raised scars with the rest of your skin, making them far less noticeable. Daily application is necessary to provide results.
Step 3
Minimize raised scars with corticosteroid injections. If silicone fails to improve the scar, injecting steroids directly into the scar tissue can cause it to flatten, lighten and fade with time, explains the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Injections may be used in combination with another form of treatment to improve results.
Step 4
Fill depressed scars with a soft tissue filler, such as collagen, hyaluronic acid or fat. Injecting soft tissue fillers into depressed scars can bring them flush with the rest of the skin. Like corticosteroids, fillers are sometimes combined with other forms of treatment to improve overall results.
Step 5
Recontour the scar with dermabrasion. In this procedure, your dermatologist sands away the surface layer of the scar. This not only provides better contour to the scar tissue itself, but also stimulates the production of new skin cells. These cells are more even in tone and texture with the rest of your skin.
Step 6
Schedule a chemical peel. Chemical peels also remove the surface layer of the scar, but with the application of an acidic agent. The acid burns away the topmost layer of skin, making way for new skin growth. This new skin can help smooth the contour and even the pigmentation of depressed scars, advises the American Academy of Dermatology.
Step 7
Resurface the scarring with laser therapy. Intense pulses of laser energy can break down the scar tissue and improve its pigmentation, helping to even the scar in texture and tone with the rest of your skin.
Step 8
Undergo surgical revision. With this surgical procedure, the scar tissue is removed and the wound is then closed with a suture or skin graft to improve the appearance of the scar, notes the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
Tips and Warnings
- Sometimes, scars can actually fade on their own, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. In this situation, you should see an improvement in anywhere between six and 18 months.
References
- American Academy of Dermatology: What is a Scar?
- American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery: Types of Scars and How to Minimize Their Visibility
- American Society for Dermatologic Surgery: Dermabrasion Informationhttp://www.asds.net/DermabrasionInformation.aspx
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons: Scar Revision
- National Institutes of Health: Scars
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