Scars naturally fade over time, but they can never be fully erased, according to the University of Chicago Medical Center. No matter what treatment is applied to the scar site, some evidence of trauma will remain. However, a number of therapies can greatly reduce the size and visibility of scars. Treatment varies depending on the type of scar.
Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy is useful in reducing keloid scars. Keloid scars are bulbous scars that protrude from the skin, caused by excessive collagen production at the scar site. According to the University of Chicago Medical Center, cryotherapy uses medication to literally freeze off the keloid scar, leaving a smoother, less noticeable scar behind.
Tissue Fillers
Collagen and fat fillers are useful in reducing the appearance of so-called "icepick" scars. Usually the result of severe acne, icepick scars feature crater-like indentations in the skin. Injecting collagen or fat into the tissue will help puff out the indentation, making the scar less noticeable, according to the Mayo Clinic. The treatment is effective, but the results are only temporary; you will need new injections every three to 12 months, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Abrasion Therapies
Microdermabrasion gently abrades the topmost layer of skin, allowing new skin to regrow in its place, according to the University of Miami. Microdermabrasion devices are available over-the-counter, and they can reduce the appearance of small, superficial scars. As an added benefit, microdermabrasion also reduces wrinkles and fine lines. While microdermabrasion is useful for at-home small scar reduction, dermabrasion treatments are also available at a doctor's office for removal of deeper scars with a more abrasive wire brush.
Chemical Peeling
Much like dermabrasion, chemical peel treatments remove layers of skin so that fresh skin can regrow over the scar site. According to the University of Chicago Medical Center, chemical peels are useful for smaller, superficial scars. The treatment can help remove hard scar tissue while also correcting reddish scar pigmentation.
Surgery
Surgical treatment is useful for large or extremely deep scarring. Surgeons cut out the scarred tissue and replace it with a skin graft. The skin graft is usually obtained from a less visible part of the body. However, when a lot of excess skin is required, it may be provided by one or more donors. Surgical removal results in incision scarring near the scar site, though this scar is often reduced in size and depth when compared to the original scar.
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