Scars Q&A
What are scars?
Scars are part of the healing process after your skin gets cut or damaged. Your body repairs itself by growing new tissue to mend and reseal the wound. This tissue is primarily made up of collagen.
Nearly everyone develops a scar at some point, though many fade over time and never require treatment. However, if a scar is painful, itchy, or otherwise bothersome, the team at A to Z Dermatology can help.
What are the types of scars?
There are many types of scars that can develop anywhere on your skin, including:
Contracture
Contracture scars often develop after a burn. They cause your skin to tighten or contract, which can restrict your movement.
Keloids
Keloids are thick clusters of overgrown scar tissue that can become large and spread beyond the wounded area. A keloid can develop up to a year after the original wound occurs.
Depressed
Also known as atrophic scars, these sunken, rounded indentations often result from chickenpox or acne. Depressed scars may become more noticeable as you age.
Raised
Raised, or hypertrophic, scars can be felt when you run your finger over the area. Unlike keloids, a raised scar doesn’t grow or spread.
Stretch marks
Stretch marks develop when your skin rapidly expands or shrinks, such as during puberty, pregnancy, or weight changes. Stretch marks often appear on the breasts, thighs, stomach, and upper arms.
How are scars treated?
First, the team at A to Z Dermatology performs a physical exam to evaluate the scar. They check the scar’s size, color, and texture to determine the type and ask about any symptoms you experience, such as restricted movement or pain.
Then, they recommend the best approach to treatment based on the type and location of the scar as well as your particular symptoms. Scar treatments include:
- Eclipse MicroPen® Elite microneedling for acne scars and stretch marks
- Intense pulsed light (IPL) photorejuvenation for mild acne scars
- Dermabrasion to remove the top layer of skin
- Corticosteroid injections to reduce keloid scars
- Injections of other medications, such as bleomycin
- Laser therapy
- Cryosurgery to freeze the scar
- Topical creams, dressings, and ointments
If these treatments aren’t effective, they may recommend surgery to remove the scar or improve its appearance.
For advanced care of scars, call A to Z Dermatology or request an appointment online today.