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how to get rid of scars

How to get rid of scars

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Get Rid of Scars: Best Treatments for Fading and Removal

scar-hand-post-op-surgical-wound
Scar on hand post op surgical wound

Scars are the result of the natural healing process of the skin after an injury, such as a cut, burn, or acne. They are composed of fibrous tissue that replaces the normal skin tissue that was damaged. Scars can vary in size, shape, colour, and texture depending on the type and extent of the injury, the age and skin type of the person, and the genetic factors that influence wound healing.

While scars are not harmful to your health, they may affect your appearance and self-esteem. Some scars may also cause itching, pain, or restricted movement. Fortunately, there are many ways to improve the look and feel of scars, ranging from home remedies and over-the-counter products to medical procedures and surgeries. In this article, we will guide you through the best treatments for fading and removing different types of scars for good.

 

Types of scars and how to treat them

Not all scars are the same. Depending on how your skin heals, you may develop one of the following types of scars:

  • Scars

    • Keloid scars: These are raised, thick, and dark scars that extend beyond the original wound area. They are caused by an overproduction of collagen, a protein that helps repair the skin. Keloid scars are more common in people with darker skin tones and tend to appear on the chest, shoulders, earlobes, and face.
    • Hypertrophic scars: These are similar to keloid scars, but they stay within the boundaries of the original wound. They are also raised, red, and firm, but they may fade over time. Hypertrophic scars usually occur after burns, injuries, or surgeries that involve tension or infection.
    • Atrophic scars: These are depressed or sunken scars that form when the skin loses its underlying support, such as fat or muscle. They are often caused by acne, chickenpox, or surgical incisions. Atrophic scars can have different shapes, such as round (ice pick scars), oval (boxcar scars), or wide (rolling scars).
    • Contracture scars: These are tight and shiny scars that form when the skin shrinks and pulls together after a burn or other injury that affects a large area of the skin. Contracture scars can limit the range of motion of the affected body part and may affect the muscles, nerves, and tendons underneath the skin.
    • Stretch marks: These are not technically scars, but they are a form of skin damage that results from rapid stretching or shrinking of the skin due to growth, weight gain, pregnancy, or hormonal changes. Stretch marks appear as narrow lines or streaks that are lighter or darker than the surrounding skin. They are most commonly found on the abdomen, breasts, hips, thighs, and buttocks.

The best treatment for your scar will depend on its type, size, location, and severity, as well as your personal preference and budget. Here are some of the most effective options for each type of scar:

  • Best treatment:

    • Silicone gel sheets or creams: These products create a moist and protective barrier over the scar, which can help flatten and soften it over time. They also reduce itching and discomfort. You can buy them over the counter or get them prescribed by your doctor. You need to apply them daily for several months to see results. The Elastoplast Scar Reducer is a non-invasive patch that hydrates and regenerates scar tissue, making scars flatter, lighter, and softer.
    • Corticosteroid injections: These are anti-inflammatory medications that can help reduce the size and redness of keloid scars. Your doctor will inject them directly into the scar tissue once every few weeks for several months. The injections may cause some pain, bruising, or bleeding at the injection site.
    • Cryotherapy: This is a procedure that uses liquid nitrogen to freeze and destroy the scar tissue. It can help improve the appearance and texture of keloid scars, but it may also cause skin discoloration, blistering, or infection. You may need several sessions to achieve the desired outcome.
    • Laser therapy: This is a procedure that uses a high-energy beam of light to vaporize or cut the scar tissue. It can help reduce the thickness and color of keloid scars, but it may also cause pain, swelling, or scarring. You may need multiple treatments to see significant improvement.
    • Surgery: This is a procedure that involves cutting out the scar tissue and closing the wound with stitches, skin grafts, or flaps. It can help remove large or bothersome keloid scars, but it may also trigger the formation of new keloid scars. Therefore, surgery is usually combined with other treatments, such as corticosteroid injections or silicone gel sheets, to prevent recurrence.
    • Hypertrophic scars: These scars may respond well to similar treatments as keloid scars, such as silicone gel sheets or creams, corticosteroid injections, cryotherapy, laser therapy, or surgery. However, hypertrophic scars tend to be less severe and more likely to fade over time, so you may not need as many or as aggressive treatments.

Atrophic scars

These scars can be improved by various treatments that aim to stimulate collagen production, fill in the depressions, or remove the top layer of the skin. Some of the options are:

  • Atrophic scars

    • Retinoids: These are topical medications derived from vitamin A that can help boost collagen synthesis, smooth out the skin surface, and fade the discoloration of atrophic scars. You can get them over-the-counter or by prescription, depending on the strength. You need to use them regularly for several months to see results. They may cause some side effects, such as dryness, peeling, or irritation.
    • Chemical peels: These are solutions that contain acids that exfoliate and peel off the outer layer of the skin, revealing a smoother and more even complexion. They can help reduce the depth and visibility of atrophic scars, but they may also cause redness, burning, or scarring. You can get them over-the-counter or from a dermatologist, depending on the concentration and type of acid. You may need multiple sessions to achieve the desired effect.
    • Microdermabrasion: This is a procedure that involves spraying tiny crystals onto the skin to gently remove the dead skin cells and improve the texture and appearance of atrophic scars. It can help make the scars less noticeable, but it may also cause some discomfort, swelling, or infection. You may need several treatments to see significant improvement.
    • Microneedling: This is a procedure that involves creating tiny punctures in the skin with fine needles to stimulate collagen production and repair the damaged skin tissue. It can help plump up and smooth out atrophic scars, but it may also cause some pain, bleeding, or infection. You may need multiple sessions to see noticeable results.
    • Dermal fillers: These are injectable substances that fill in the gaps and depressions caused by atrophic scars, making them more level with the surrounding skin. They can help improve the appearance and contour of atrophic scars, but they may also cause some bruising, lumps, or allergic reactions. You may need to repeat the injections every few months to maintain the effect.

Contracture scars

These scars can be treated by various methods that aim to loosen the tightness and restore the function and mobility of the affected area. Some of the options are:

  • Contracture scars

    • Physical therapy: This is a form of exercise and massage that can help stretch and soften the contracture scars, improve blood circulation, and prevent stiffness and pain. You can do it at home or with the guidance of a therapist. You need to do it regularly and consistently to see results.
    • Pressure garments: These are special clothing or accessories that apply constant pressure on the contracture scars, which can help flatten and soften them over time. They also reduce itching and inflammation. You can get them from a pharmacy or a medical supply store. You need to wear them for several hours a day for several months to see results.
    • Silicone gel sheets or creams: These products can also help flatten and soften contracture scars, as well as reduce itching and discomfort. They work similarly to pressure garments, but they are more convenient and comfortable to use. You need to apply them daily for several months to see results.
    • Laser therapy: This is a procedure that can help reduce the thickness and colour of contracture scars, as well as improve their elasticity and flexibility. It works similarly to laser therapy for keloid or hypertrophic scars, but it may require more sessions and higher intensity.
    • Surgery: This is a procedure that can help release the tension and restore the function of the contracture scars, especially if they affect the joints or other vital structures. It involves cutting out the scar tissue and reconstructing the wound with skin grafts or flaps. It can help improve the appearance and mobility of the contracture scars, but it may also cause pain, infection, or scarring. It is usually the last resort when other treatments fail or are not sufficient.

Stretch marks

These marks may fade over time, but they rarely disappear completely. There are some treatments that can help improve their appearance and make them less noticeable. Some of the options are:

  • Stretch marks

    • Moisturizers: These are products that hydrate and nourish the skin, which can help improve its elasticity and texture. They may also help reduce the dryness and itching associated with stretch marks. You can use any moisturizer that suits your skin type and preference. You need to apply it daily to see results.
    • Topical creams: These are products that contain ingredients that can help stimulate collagen production, lighten the pigmentation, or increase the blood flow of the stretch marks. Some of the common ingredients are vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, alpha hydroxy acids, or glycolic acid. You can get them over the counter or by prescription, depending on the strength and effectiveness. You need to use them regularly for several months to see results. They may cause some side effects, such as irritation, peeling, or sensitivity.
    • Laser therapy: This is a procedure that can help reduce the colour and width of the stretch marks, as well as improve their texture and smoothness. It works similarly to laser therapy for other types of scars, but it may require more sessions and higher intensity.
    • Microneedling: This is a procedure that can help improve the appearance and texture of the stretch marks, as well as stimulate collagen production and repair the damaged skin tissue. It works similarly to microneedling for atrophic scars, but it may require more sessions and higher intensity.

FAQ (4)

  • Can I prevent scars from forming?

    While it is not possible to prevent scars completely, you can take some steps to minimize their appearance and severity, such as:

    • Cleaning and covering the wound properly to prevent infection and promote healing
    • Applying pressure or silicone gel sheets or creams to the wound to reduce collagen buildup and scarring
    • Avoiding sun exposure or using sunscreen to prevent hyperpigmentation and inflammation of the scar
    • Massaging the scar gently to improve blood circulation and flexibility
    • Following your doctor's instructions and recommendations for wound care and scar treatment

  • How long does it take for scars to heal?

    The healing time of scars depends on many factors, such as the type and size of the wound, the type and location of the scar, the age and health of the person, and the treatment used. Generally, it takes about six to 18 months for a scar to mature and reach its final appearance, but some scars may take longer or shorter to heal.

  • Are there any dangers of Scars

    The risks and complications of scar treatments vary depending on the type and method of treatment, as well as the individual response and condition of the person. Some of the possible risks and complications are:

    • Pain, discomfort, or irritation
    • Bruising, bleeding, or infection
    • Allergic reactions or hypersensitivity\
    • Scarring, discoloration, or pigmentation changes
    •  Inflammation, swelling, or blistering
    • Lumps, bumps, or nodules
    • Recurrence or worsening of the scar

     

  • How much do scar treatments cost?

    The cost of scar treatments depends on many factors, such as the type and size of the scar, the type and number of treatments, the provider and location of the service, and the insurance coverage and reimbursement. Generally, the cost of scar treatments ranges from a few dollars for over-the-counter products to several thousand dollars for surgical procedures. You can consult your doctor or dermatologist for an estimate of the cost and the best option for your situation.

    Scars are a natural part of the skin's healing process, but they can also cause cosmetic and functional problems for some people. There are many treatments available for fading and removing scars, depending on their type, size, location, and severity. Some of the most effective options are silicone gel sheets or creams, corticosteroid injections, cryotherapy, laser therapy, surgery, retinoids, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, microneedling, dermal fillers, moisturizers, and topical creams. However, not all treatments are suitable or effective for everyone, and they may also have some risks and complications. Therefore, it is important to consult your doctor or dermatologist before starting any scar treatment and follow their instructions and recommendations carefully. With proper care and treatment, you can improve the appearance and feel of your scars and boost your confidence and well-being.

    When it comes to treating scars, the Elastoplast Scar Reducer offers a clinically proven, non-invasive solution. Designed with innovative technology, these transparent patches work to hydrate scar tissue, increase temperature, and activate the skin's natural regeneration process. With consistent use, scars become flatter, lighter, and softer, making the Elastoplast Scar Reducer an essential part of any scar care routine. Whether you're dealing with raised, colored, hypertrophic, or keloid scars, trust Elastoplast to make a visible difference.