Scar Basics

When the dermis, a deep layer of your skin that is sensitive to harm, is injured, the body responds by manufacturing collagen fibers to seal close any openings, known as scars or adhesions. The size and shape of scars depends on the injury, your age, the location of the scar and size, nutrition, genetics and if any infection has taken place.

Due to their rapid production, scars are made differently than healthy skin. Scars provide less protection and are less resistant to UV rays; they also are typically missing hair follicles and sweat glands if they were damaged in the injury. They are less elastic and can cause discomfort in their restriction of our daily movements. Itchy sensations are also normal due to scarring.

Types of Scars

As part of the body's natural response, when injured, it produces collagen to close any openings, however, getting the exact amount necessary is often difficult. Protruding scars are caused by an excess of collagen. This type of scar includes hypertrophic scars and keloid scars. Hypertrophic scars have a stiffer texture than healthy skin and are typically red, pink or purple in color. They are most commonly found in areas of high skin tension. Keloid scars differ from hypertrophic scars in that they continue to grow outside of the site of injury, often forming tumor-like growths. Keloids often form around piercings that are not properly cleaned or cared for. Both of these raised scars are more common in those with dark skin.

Atrophic scars, depressions in the skin, form when fat or muscle supporting the skin is lost. These scars might appear because of surgery, chicken pox, or acne. Typically, this type of scar forms when the skin is stretched rapidly. You might be familiar with stretch marks that occur due to rapid weight gain during pregnancy. Lastly, when the skin is under stress from an injury, atrophic scars can result. Therefore, the stretching is usually found close to joints.

Hypertrophic Scar Treatment

Natural and prescription scar removal treatments exist. Home remedies include the topical application of vitamin E, onion extract, cocoa butter and honey. Lemon juice can also be applied to scar tissue if lightening is desired.

Other more intrusive options used for treating hypertrophic scars include prescription strength topical creams, dermabrasion, laser treatment, surgery and different types of injections. Z-plasty and skin grafting literally are hypertrophic scar removal procedures. Z-plasty describes the process that cuts out the scar and places it in a spot that has a similar appearance. Skin grafting involves the transfer of healthy skin to the site of the injury with the intention of covering the scar.

For treating hypertrophic acne scars, a dermabrasion system can work to exfoliate and leave a softer surface. How to get rid of acne scars? Dermatologists can also remove the scar and use small stitches that help the skin heal with smaller, less noticeable scars. Unfortunately, there is no complete way for healing hypertrophic acne scars.