How to get rid of scars?

Understanding the 4 different types of scars

Each scar is unique, singular in size and form and is often a testimony of people's lives. To this day, scientists and derms have been able to classify scars into four categories:  

• normal or "good" scars are soft, flat, and close to your skin colour.
• atrophic or "pitted" scars create sunken recesses in the tissue. typically caused by acne scars or chickenpox, it can affect anyone.
• hypertrophic scars are stiff, red, raised or swollen.
• keloid scars are hard and bulky and extend beyond the confines of the original wound area.

Medical scar treatments are available if your scar falls into one of these last three categories! So why not see your doctor or dermatologist for advice? 

Following surgery or an injury, we recommend following a scar care routine to help you get the best possible result when wanting to reduce the importance of a scar. Our most helpful tip is to keep your scar and clean during healing.

From healing wound to fresh scar

According to the National Library of Medicine (NLM), wounds generally heal within 4 to 6 weeks. We know fresh scars require special attention and care to ensure the best possible aesthetic outcome.

Make sure you get your stitches out on time

A key aspect of your scar routine is making sure stiches are removed at the appropriate time. Dr Ann’Laure Demessant, International scientific communication director at La Roche Posay says: “Too early and your scar could reopen; too late and they could leave marks. It is important you don’t leave your doctor’s office without clear instructions on when and how to have your stitches removed (assuming they’re not dissolvable).”

Keep your scar clean to avoid infection

When it comes to scar care, cleanliness is the first defense against unwanted scarring. Use a cleansing gel designed for fragilized skin, which is hypoallergenic and gentle enough. However, you shouldn’t douse your scar in disinfectants like hydrogen peroxide, which can kill new skin cells and delay scar recovery.

Click HERE to view the CICAPLAST Lavant B5 to gently cleanse your fragilized skin.

Avoid stretching or rubbing the skin

To prevent visible scarring, there are certain activities you should avoid. Pulling on skin can result in a wide scar or even “pop your stitches” causing your wound or scar to reopen. Avoid activities that place excessive tension on your scar (like lifting weights or certain sports) for several weeks after injury or surgery. You should also avoid clothing that rubs on the healing skin. Click HERE to learn more about the stitches healing stages

Combine your scar cream with massage techniques

Once your scar is closed, dried, and healed, you can start your scar care prevention journey by massaging it twice daily with a repairing and soothing balm to reduce it. Sometimes overlooked, scar massage can optimize the scarring process. Performing one at least once a day stimulates neat and healthy healing, improving the chances of a happy result! 

keep your scar out of the sun

“When new, the epidermis is more sensitive to sunlight.” Explains Dr Ann’Laure Demessant. “Consequently, fresh scars are prone to dark pigmentation if exposed to UV radiation”. For this reason, even if it’s cloudy, a very high sun protection is needed when going out. Click HERE to learn more about protecting scars from the sun

Stages of wound healing: what is a healthy scar?

Healing is a dynamic process that involves several steps. Read on to discover what's normal and what needs your immediate attention.

Why is my scar bleeding?

It is usual for a healing wound to ooze a small amount of blood. Simply apply pressure with a clean piece of gauze until the bleeding stops – if it won't, you will need to see your doctor or go to A&E, as you may need stitches. If your wound already had stitches and has reopened (dehiscence), you must see your doctor to avoid a wide scar. If old scars reopen and start to bleed, this could be due to a nutritional deficiency, so see your doctor for advice.

why is my scar oozing?

Like blood, healing wounds can ooze a clear liquid called serous fluid for several days or weeks, depending on the area. But pay attention: If your wound starts to ooze white/yellow pus, this is a sign of infection, and you will need to see your doctor for advice on whether you need antibiotics.

Why is my scar itchy?

Healing wounds can itch for several years. In the early stages of scar formation, the wound is inflamed, releasing inflammatory mediators (chemical messengers), including the itch molecule histamine. These stimulate nerves in the surrounding skin. As the scar “knits” together, the mechanical pull also stimulates itch receptors. Over time, this sensation will slowly wane away, but daily massage with a suitable scar cream will speed up the process.

Why is my scar painful?

When a wound is deep enough to leave a scar, nerve fibres can also be damaged. This can lead to burning sensations or pain, known as "neuropathic pain." Massage with a scar cream may help, but it will usually fade away as the nerve fibres heal and regrow. It can also be treated with certain drugs, such as amitriptyline. See your doctor if you are uncomfortable.

Why is my scar pink or red?

It's normal for new scars to be pink or red. As the tissue regenerates, increased blood vessels are formed around it to feed the healing tissue and the influx of cells. The redness should fade, but if your scar is still red after several months, try a reputable scar cream to promote healing. In more extreme cases, you may want to see a doctor or a dermatologist and ask about the best scar treatments, such as silicone patches, steroid shots, Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) and laser treatments. Surgical scar revision is also possible.

Why is my scar black?

The body's natural response to a wound is to generate intense inflammation, releasing multiple inflammatory mediators (chemical messengers). These substances can stimulate the activity of pigment-producing cells called melanocytes, resulting in brown or black pigmentation in or around the scar (Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation, PIH). This phenomenon is more common in darker skin types, but it can be avoided or reduced by using a high SPF on the healing scar.

Can you get rid of old scars?

Several techniques are known to effectively diminish the appearance of old scars. However, some methods are more effective than others, and, most of all, you should always consult a dermatologist before starting any cosmetic procedures to ensure they are suitable for your skin type and scar condition.

Superficial aesthetic procedures

Various clinical procedures exist to enhance skin appearance, including surface-level interventions and injectable solutions. Procedures such as chemical peels, dermabrasion, cryotherapy, and laser therapy work by removing the outer layers of the skin to promote the growth of new skin in place of the scarred area. On the other hand, injectable treatments like steroids, fillers, or collagen, along with chemical exfoliators such as glycolic, salicylic, and lactic acids, offer targeted improvements by enhancing skin texture and filling in areas of concern from within. 

Cosmetics and skincare products

For those seeking a less-invasive approach, adopting a suitable skincare routine and using makeup can effectively minimize the visibility of scars without medical procedures! You can check here our makeup techniques to blend scars.

When to consult a dermatologist

Every person's skin journey is unique. If a scar is causing you concern or you are interested in exploring advanced treatment options, consulting a certified dermatologist is essential. Your doctor can comprehensively understand the available treatments tailored to your specific needs.