1. The Healing Factor
Scars are a part of the healing process when an injury occurs to the skin, whether accidental or related to a surgical procedure. When an you sustain an injury to the skin, it heals by creating new cells and connective tissue. Scars are made up of the connective tissue that holds the wound closed. How well the wound heals and how visible the scar is depends on several factors. The location of the injury, the blood supply to the area, the depth of the wound, age and genetics all play a role in the formation and appearance of scars.
2. Story Behind the Scars
Most scars aren't serious in nature. Scars stemming from minor injuries usually fade within a year, and aren't serious enough to treat. In fact, some people enjoy telling the story behind various scars they have received in their lives! But more visible scars, such as those caused by severe acne, can be particularly troubling. They can make the skin look pitted or have a wave-like appearance. A dermatologist can recommend the best possible treatment for acne scar removal based on the type of scarring that exists. Different scar creams, ointments and silicone gels are available over the counter that with continual use over time can lessen the appearance of scars.
3. TLC for Wounds
Proper wound care minimizes the formation of a scar. Thoroughly wash a wound when it first occurs, and use preventative measures such as antibacterial creams to ward off infection. Don't pick at a scab; doing so repeatedly can make scarring more noticeable after the wound heals.
4. Healing Process Run Amok
Some scars are more than cosmetic. Keloid scars are caused when the production of the connective tissue in a scar extends beyond the original site of the injury. They are usually red and raised from the skin's surface, and can become so large that they affect mobility. People with darker complexions are more prone to keloid scars. A hypertrophic scar is similar to a keloid scar, but isn't as large and occurs in people of all races. Contracture scars are caused by severe burns, and can also affect mobility.
5. No Sure Thing
Keloid, hypertrophic and contracture scars can never be completely eradicated. Scar treatment during the first month after the wound has healed has some success in limiting the size of these types of scars. Surgical removal of keloid scars sometimes only encourages the growth of more scar tissue. Cortisone injections are sometimes very successful with hypertrophic scars, and can improve the appearance of keloid scars dramatically. Cryosurgery is sometimes successful in conjunction with the monthly injection of steroids.
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