How to Get Rid of Facial Scars

How to Get Rid of Facial Scars
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Facial scars are a nuisance that have different causes. Burns, acne, knicks and cuts caused by shaving are just a few of the things that often leave scars on the face. These scars, while cosmetic, often cause deeper damage to the underlying and surrounding tissue, meaning that the options of removing them, while many, are usually rather invasive. They may range anywhere from quick procedures that can be performed by a dermatologist in just a few minutes to extensive surgeries.

Step 1

Get a dermabrasion treatment. According to Teens Health, dermabrasion uses either a spinning diamond instrument or rotating wire brush to wear down the outer layer of the skin. New skin then replaces it, resulting a smoother layer that MayoClinic.com says may completely remove surface scars. Deeper scars, such as those caused by acne, often appear less noticeable after this treatment.

Step 2

Get laser resurfacing treatments, suggests MayoClinic.com. Laser resurfacing uses a laser to destroy the epidermis while heating the dermis. After about three to ten days, new skin replaces the destroyed skin, removing surface scars and resulting in a healthier, more youthful appearance.

Step 3

Get fractional laser therapy. Similar to laser resurfacing, this treatment uses a laser to stimulate the growth of healthier skin; however, according to Teens Health, fractional laser therapy does not damage the outer layer of skin, but works in a deeper level instead. Therefore, healing time is generally short.

Step 4

Get tissue filler injections, suggest MayoClinic.com. During this procedure, collagen or fat is injected under the skin and into deeper scars, temporarily filling out the skin and making the scars less noticeable.

Step 5

Get scar revision surgery. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, during scar revision therapy, scars are often entirely removed, the subsequent closing of the wound monitored very carefully, or they are covered with a skin graft. This procedure reduces and improves the appearance of scars and can even restore skin functions and correct disfigurements.

Tips and Warnings

  • Tissue filler injections and laser resurfacing both require repeat treatments.

References

Article reviewed by Molly Solanki Last updated on: Apr 29, 2012

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