Blog

Is a Scar Always a Permanent Mark?

It’s safe to say that everyone has scars. Some of these scars tell interesting stories, such as the time you had a surgery or fell down and bumped your head as a child. Some people embrace their scars and make them a part of themselves and others just wish they would disappear, especially if they resulted from a more traumatic event like a car accident. Scar removal can be achieved in many cases when scars are treated by an experienced technician. At the very least, they can be greatly minimized

One type of scar that can be especially troubling is a keloid. A keloid is a raised, bumpy scar that develops on some people, caused by an overactive healing response. In some people they grow very large, itchy and uncomfortable and they can end up forming on any part of the body. If you are prone to keloids, the best way to treat one is to prevent it from happening in the first place. For example, if you know you are having surgery, invest in some silicone sheets or silicone spray that can be purchased at a plastic surgeon’s office. Using these products, in conjunction with laser treatment, can prevent the keloid from ever developing while your skin is healing. Once the keloid develops, it can take some work to get rid of it but laser treatments can minimize it. It some cases you may need to have the keloid excised in a scar removal procedure, and then use the methods mentioned above to prevent another one from developing.

Skin tone is another factor in scar development. If your skin is a darker pigment, the scar will likely stand out more and may be noticeable for a longer time. Again, laser treatments can be very effective in treating these dark scars. The problem is that some inexperienced technicians will hesitate to treat the scar but don’t give up!  Keep calling around and look for someone with expertise in treating different skin tones.

Acne scars are another troubling reminder that many people would like to be rid of. Deep laser skin resurfacing can greatly minimize acne scars but may take repeated treatments, depending on how deep the scars are.

Any time you choose to have a scar treated, do your homework on the clinic you choose and do not hesitate to ask questions. Scars are definitely tricky to treat but with the right expertise can be effectively minimized or removed.