Scar Treatments

How are Scars Formed?

Typically every wound results in some type of scarring.  Scars are part of the natural healing process.  They are the result of the replacement of a more fibrous tissue to normal skin.  Scarring is the body’s defense mechanism against trauma to the surface from cuts, scrapes, surgeries, disease, chemical reactions, and even growing.  There are several different types of scars, most of which will somewhat heal and fade on their own, but usually need a little help to become completely unnoticeable.

There are many ways to decrease visibility of a scar.  While some people opt for more extreme methods of scar removal such as surgery, laser treatment, or chemical peels, it can be much more cost effective and safe to consider home remedies or over the counter products to battle unsightly scars.

Keloids

Keloid scars are formed when an overgrowth of tissue forms around a wound.  Keloids are usually caused by stress or strain on the skin due to injury, surgery, acne, or piercings.  Anyone can develop keloid scars but they are most common in people with dark skin.  Keloid scars are very unique because of their tendency to grow beyond the margin of the injury from which it originated.  Keloid scars are very unattractive and can be tough to remove, although not entirely impossible.

Surgical removal is sometimes used in the aide of getting rid of keloid scars, but it is rarely 100% effective.  Almost always after the attempt of surgical removal people are left with another scar which will commonly turn into yet another keloid.  Not only is surgery ineffective, it is very high priced and is often not covered by medical insurance because it is considered a cosmetic procedure.

Plastic Surgery Scars

Scars as a result of plastic surgery are becoming more and more common because of the increasing number of tummy tucks and breast augmentations each year.  These scars are typically small and can usually be treated with the use of silicone based scar gels provided by the plastic surgeon.

Creams

Scar creams are used to help diminish the redness of scars, making them appear less noticeable.  Scar creams are mainly composed for moisturizing agents and can be somewhat effective.  Creams are fairly cheap, but do not absorb into the scar as well as gels.  They can also leave skin feeling sticky.

Silicone Gels

Silicone gels are often the cheapest and most comprehensive healing agent for scars.  Silicone forms a protective barrier to seal in moisture which is very important in the scar healing process.  If scars dry out, they can continue to develop collagen and, in some cases, spread to larger areas.  The protective barrier that silicone forms helps lock out toxins that can inflame and redden the scar.   This will allow for regeneration of healthy, beautiful skin.