The best way to remove scars will depend on the scar itself. Not all treatments will work on all scars, so you may need to use a little trial-and-error to determine whether or not a certain technique works for you. You may also want to consult with your doctor, dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon before investing any money into scar-removal products or procedures.
Step 1
Try using a cortisone cream on the scar. This type of medicated cream can prove effective at reducing the appearance of a scar, according to the Mayo Clinic. If used daily, it can lessen the redness of a scar.
Step 2
Apply a silicone-based lotion or gel on the scar. The silicone can help to reduce the thickness of a scar. For best results, it must be used each day. However, not all scars respond to this type of medication.
Step 3
Talk to your doctor about steroid injections. A series of cortisone injections are given directly into scar tissue, and can effectively flatten and shrink a raised scar, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.
Step 4
Ask a cosmetic surgeon about dermabrasion. In this procedure, a tool is used to remove the top layer of the scar. This allows for a new layer of skin to develop in its place, thereby lessening the appearance of a scar. A number of sessions may be necessary to get results. However, this treatment doesn't work on all types of scarring.
Step 5
Get a chemical peel. This method works similarly to dermabrasion, since the top layer of skin is removed. But instead of a tool physically removing the skin, it's actually a chemical. This technique can even out the surface of your skin and balance out the color of the scar so that it matches your skin's color better.
Step 6
Have the scar filled with collagen, fat or hyaluronic acid. The American Academy of Dermatology says that this is an option for soft scars that pit into the skin. The only drawback to this type of scar removal is that it isn't permanent. You'll need to go back to the dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon on a regular basis to refill the scar as the filler dissipates.
Step 7
Remove the scar with a revision surgery. This can be done with a surgical utensil or a laser. An incision is made to remove the scar and then reconnect the skin in an area that may be less conspicuous, such as in a fold or wrinkle of the skin. With laser therapy, the skin is essentially contoured and resurfaced with intense bursts of light.
Step 8
Consider having a skin graft. More commonly known as a punch graft, the scar is simply replaced with a donor portion of your own skin.
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