Facial scarring is the result of a variety of traumas, including cuts, burns and acne. Scarring is also the result of infections like chickenpox. The size and depth of facial trauma will determine the severity of scarring and necessary healing time. Many scars will gradually fade over time. However, if facial scarring causes stress, there are treatment options that can effectively minimize the appearance of scars.
Step 1
Peel away the top layers of skin. A dermatologist can offer chemical peels, which involve applying a chemical to the skin to get rid of scarred tissue. The treatment is effective for minimizing minor facial scarring. Have your doctor examine your scars to determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure.
Step 2
Apply pressure bandages. Facial scarring that has a raised appearance may benefit from pressure bandages. These bandages, which are available through your dermatologist, are used over the course of several months to flatten scar tissue. Apply the bandages as directed by your doctor.
Step 3
Use punch excision to get rid of facial scarring. Your dermatologist will use a cookie-cutter type of instrument to cut out the scar tissue. She will graft skin taken from your own body to minimize the appearance of scarring. A punch excision procedure is best for scars with a pitted appearance.
Step 4
Apply silicone gels to the affected area. These gels are available by prescription from your dermatologist. Apply as directed to the affected area until the scar's appearance improves. Silicone gels work best for scars that are elevated in appearance.
Step 5
Use fillers for facial scars with a depressed appearance. Injectable fillers, such as hyaluronic acid and collagen, are used to "fill in" scars that cause a hole-like appearance on the face. This procedure will need to be repeated periodically to maintain the desired appearance.
Tips and Warnings
- Facial scarring treatments are usually covered by health insurance companies. For this reason, it is important to work with your dermatologist to choose an effective and affordable treatment. Some doctors make payment arrangements.
- Don't pick at facial scarring, which can make the area more difficult to treat.
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