Treatments for Scar Removal

Scars are formed as a result of the healing process the body undergoes after an injury. After the injury, your body tissues are prompted to close up the injured spot and the damaged skin. The severity of a scar oftentimes depends on the severity of the injury, and they are formed in different shapes and sizes.

Some scars eventually fade away, while others might just undergo a little change in appearance when treated. Advancements in skincare and dermatology have paved the way for a variety of treatments for scar removal, and we will be discussing them in this article. We’ll also discuss the best options for scar removal tailored to your skin’s needs. Read on to discover what works and why.

Types of Scars

Scars come in several distinct types, each with unique characteristics and causes. Here is a breakdown of the main types:

1. Atrophic Scars

Atrophic scars are sunken or pitted scars that form when the skin doesn’t produce enough collagen during the healing process. They occur after damage to the dermis (the skin’s thicker second layer) due to acne, chickenpox, or minor injuries. Without sufficient collagen to rebuild the tissue, the skin heals below its normal surface level, which in turn causes depression in the concerned area. Atrophic scars can be shallow or deep, and they can make the skin look uneven or wavy.

2. Hypertrophic Scars

Hypertrophic scars are thickened scars. They form when the body produces excess collagen during the healing process after an injury, surgery, or trauma. They are similar to keloids but remain within the original wound boundaries and could appear red, firm, and slightly elevated. Hypertrophic scars are more common in areas with high skin tension, like the chest or shoulders. They can affect any skin type and are influenced by genetics and wound care.

3. Keloid Scars

Similar to hypertrophic scars, keloid scars are formed as a result of excess collagen production during the healing process. However, they extend beyond the original wound’s boundaries and form raised, thick, and often irregularly shaped growths. Keloids are more common in people with darker skin tones. They appear red, pink, or darker than the surrounding skin and may feel firm or have a tough, elastic texture like rubber. Common causes of these scars include cuts, burns, acne, piercings, and even minor scratches on the skin. Keloids don’t fade naturally and can grow over time, sometimes causing itching, tenderness, or discomfort.

4. Contracture Scars

Contracture scars are a specific type of scar that typically develops after a burn injury. When the skin and underlying tissue tighten and contract during healing, the skin is pulled inwards, and a contracture scar is formed. This happens because the body produces a large amount of collagen to repair the damaged area, but the new tissue is less flexible than normal skin. Contracture scars often appear shiny and tight and can range from mild to severe, depending on the burn’s depth and size.

In severe cases, they restrict movement and limit the skin’s ability to stretch, especially if they form over joints like the elbows, knees, or neck. Contracture scars are more common with second or third-degree burns, which damage deeper layers of skin.

5. Normotrophic Scars

These are the most common and least noticeable scars. They form a natural part of the healing process after minor injuries, like small cuts, scrapes, or superficial wounds. Unlike other scars, normotrophic scars remain flat and level with the surrounding skin without excessive collagen buildup or tissue loss. Over time, they fade to a pale or silvery colour and blend with the skin, becoming barely visible.

Top 10 Medical Treatments for Getting Rid of Scars

Here are some of the top medical treatments for scar removal, tailored to different scar types and backed by dermatological expertise:

1. Laser Therapy

Laser therapy leverages focused light to improve the appearance of various scar types, including atrophic, hypertrophic, and keloid scars. The process works by supplying precise wavelengths of light to the skin without damaging the surface, depending on the laser type (ablative and non-ablative lasers). Ablative lasers (removal of the outer skin layers) may need a week of recovery, while non-ablative ones (stimulating collagen growth beneath the surface) require less. Results from laser therapy improve over time, which makes it a top choice for lasting scar improvement. However, it can’t eliminate the scar completely, but will smooth out atrophic scars, reduce redness in hypertrophic scars, or shrink keloids, depending on the laser type.

2. Dermabrasion

Dermabrasion is a medical procedure particularly effective for atrophic scars (like acne scars) and superficial scarring from injuries. It involves smoothening out scars by mechanically "sanding" the skin’s top layer with a specialized rotating tool called a dermabrader. Dermabrasion encourages the growth of new, smoother skin after removing the damaged skin. As the treated area heals, uneven texture and discoloration disappear, and redness fades over time as recovery begins (typically takes one week). Dermabrasion is best for those seeking noticeable improvement without invasive surgery.

3. Microneedling

Microneedling is particularly effective for atrophic scars. It smooths out pitted textures and improves overall skin tone with its minimally invasive treatment. The microneedling process requires using microneedles paired with serums or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to create microchannels on the skin’s surface. It typically lasts 30-60 minutes and is accompanied by mild redness as the main side effect, which fades within a day or two. Multiple sessions are needed to get the desired results.

4. Corticosteroid Injections

Corticosteroid Injections are effective for keloids and hypertrophic scars. It is a popular medical treatment in which the doctor injects a steroid, like triamcinolone, directly into the scar tissue. This works by reducing inflammation, slowing collagen production, and breaking down the excess tissue. Corticosteroid Injections help flatten the scar, soften its texture, and often relieve discomfort like itching or tenderness. Multiple sessions are needed for great results, and treatments are typically spaced a few weeks apart. Although it is a quick targeted option, recurrence is possible, especially with keloids, which will require follow-up care.

5. Surgical Scar Revision

Surgical Scar Revision is designed to improve the appearance or function of deep, stubborn scars, such as contractures or keloids. In this scar treatment type, a surgeon removes the existing scar tissue to carefully reposition or close the wound using advanced techniques. Eventually, the treatment creates a less noticeable mark compared to the former scar. Surgical scar revision is often recommended when scars restrict movement or cause significant cosmetic concerns. Recovery is relatively quick, but results depend on the scar’s size, location, and the patient’s healing process.

6. Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy uses extreme cold, typically liquid nitrogen, to target and reduce scars. It is a popular choice for stubborn raised scars, particularly keloids and hypertrophic scars. A dermatologist applies the freezing agent directly to the scar tissue during the process, which causes the outer layers to freeze and eventually shed off. Excess collagen around the scar area is destroyed in the process, and the scar shrinks in size and thickness. Cryotherapy may cause temporary redness or blistering, but it is valued for its precision. It is frequently combined with corticosteroid injections to enhance results and prevent regrowth.

7. Chemical Peels

Chemical peels are specifically done to improve the appearance of mild scars, particularly superficial ones like acne marks or normotrophic scars. It is a popular medical treatment that involves applying a solution containing acids like glycolic, salicylic, or trichloroacetic acid to the skin to exfoliate the outer layer. This process removes dead skin cells, smooths the texture, reduces discolouration, and encourages healthier skin to grow. Peels range from light (minimal downtime) to medium or deep (longer recovery), which are applied depending on the scar’s complexity and depth.

8. Silicone Gel or Sheets

Silicone Gel or sheets are applied directly to the scar, which works by hydrating the skin and creating a protective barrier that regulates collagen production. As collagen production reduces, there’s a prevention of excess build-up that makes the scars thick. Silicon Gel or sheets are a widely recommended medical treatment for managing and reducing scars, particularly hypertrophic and keloid types. With consistent use, scars become flattened within weeks or months, depending on the severity. It’s non-invasive, easy to use at home, and frequently prescribed post-surgery to optimize healing.

9. Subcision

Subcision involves inserting a special hypodermic needle under the skin to break up the fibrous bands of scar tissue that cause a pitted appearance on the skin. It is a minimally invasive medical procedure used to treat depressed scars, such as atrophic scars from acne or injury. Subcision allows the skin to lift and smooth out, and stimulates collagen production to fill in the depression over time. It is often combined with treatments like microneedling or fillers for optimal results.

Conclusion

Scars may be permanent marks of our skin’s history, but modern medical treatments offer powerful ways to reduce their visibility and restore confidence. While no treatment can completely erase a scar, these medical advancements and professional guidance can dramatically improve texture, color, and overall appearance. Always remember to contact a professional dermatologist before embarking on any scar removal treatment. The right approach can transform your skin into one you’re proud of, but it needs the right guidance.