Facial scarring can be an unpleasant reminder of past skin injury or acne. When the skin becomes too damaged, collagen tissue grows in replacement of damaged skin, resulting in a scar. Over time, these scars change in color to become white. Even if the scars are older, treatments are available to reduce scarring.
Significance
Scarring is your body's natural response to trauma or injury that damages the skin, according to the University of Chicago Medical Center. Fibrous tissue grows in place of your normal skin cells. The shape and length of your scar depends upon your skin and the size of the scar itself. Although the scar may be red or purple when initially forms due to inflammation, over time the scar will fade to white. White scarring also can indicate a loss of pigmentation due to the destruction of melanin pigment cells that give your skin its color.
Expert Insight
Due to age and pigmentation issues, white facial scars present treatment concerns. "Typically, these scars are much harder to treat than hyperpigmented scars," says Dr. Raffy Karamanoukian, a Los Angeles, Calif.-based dermatologist writing on Real Self. Dr. Karamanoukian recommends treatments that stimulate melanin production and reduce width of the underlying tissue.
Prevention
Maintaining good skin health through nutrition and drinking plenty of water can help to minimize the severity of white facial scarring, according to the University of Chicago Medical Center. Although the scar may be itchy at time, refrain from scratching the scar as this can worsen the injury and expose skin tissue to bacteria.
Treatment --- Non-Surgical
While white facial scars represent a challenge to treat, non-invasive treatment methods are available. Scar treatment creams such as onion extract can help to reduce the length and height of facial scars, according to Dr. Audrey Kunin, a dermatologist writing on DERMADoctor.com, a skincare resource website. An aesthetician or dermatologist can utilize chemical peels or dermabrasion to remove dead layers of skin cells and reveal healthy skin underneath. Laser treatments also may be recommended due to their ability to restore pigment to the skin, according to Dr. Harold J. Kaplan, a Los Angeles, Calif.-based plastic surgeon writing on Real Self.
Treatment --- Surgical
If your white facial scar does not respond to non-surgical treatments, surgery may be recommended. Facial scar removal surgery involves removing the scar tissue and placing healthy tissue over the removed tissue. A skin graft also may be used to stimulate blood vessel and tissue growth. If you select this option, it's important to discuss after-care procedures with your physician to minimize the risks of future scar development.
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