Scars can serve as an unattractive reminder of a past injury, acne blemish or accident. Scars form when the skin is damaged and collagen fibers multiply rapidly in an attempt to repair the skin. Mederma, a treatment cream formulated to treat scars, can be used to soften scars and reduce their overall length and color. Because Mederma is available in many formulations, choosing the right one for you can help you to experience the best possible results.
Uses
Mederma can be used to treat a variety of scars. These include scars due to injury, including burns, surgery and accidents, according to Mederma's website. Mederma also can be used to treat acne scarring. The treatment also may help to reduce the appearance of stretch marks, a form of skin scarring that occurs when the skin is stretched too far.
Active Ingredient
Mederma contains several skin-softening ingredients to reduce scar tissue hardness. However, the proprietary ingredient in Mederma is Allium cepa, also is known as onion extract. When applied regularly to the skin, Allium cepa can reduce inflammation and inhibit the growth of fibroblasts. Fibroblasts are the cells that encourage the growth of collagen when a scar forms. While it is good for the skin to repair itself, fibroblasts stimulate collagen fiber growth that tends to be discolored or haphazard in arrangement, according to Go Ask Alice, a health resource from Columbia University.
Types
Mederma is available in different formulations based on skin type and desired results. Mederma Stretch Marks Therapy is designed specifically for use in treating the discoloration and texture changes that accompany stretch marks. Mederma also is available in gel and cream formulations. The cream version also contains a sun protection factor of 30. The Mederma Kids product goes on the skin purple, then changes color to clear.
Time Frame
Mederma must be applied three to four times per day to be effective. How fast it works typically depends upon the age of your scar. Newer scars may diminish in appearance after eight weeks, while older scars can take between three and six months to diminish.
Warning
While Mederma works best when used on new scars, you should not apply Mederma to open wounds. This can lead to infection or irritation of a healing wound. For this reason, apply Mederma until after your wound has healed or stitches have been removed.
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