Scarring is something that many of us hope to avoid. Unfortunately, most of us will experience some level of scarring throughout our lifetime, whether it be from a small accident, or even from plastic surgery. The struggle to perfect skin tone and texture is real, especially if you are someone who is struggling with acne. Removing visible signs of scarring can be difficult, however, it is possible with the correct care and attention to the products used. In this blog, we will share some of the essential steps to remove visible signs of scarring, varying from more treatment-based remedies to herbal restorations. Take a look at the following suggestions:
What causes scarring?
Scarring is not as sinister as it may seem. Scarring is your body’s healing process following breakages in the skin, producing new collagen and fibres in the damaged site. Although, it is important to keep in mind that scarring can come in many forms depending on the severity of the injured skin. Here are just a few types of scarring characteristics, that some of you may be familiar with:
1. Atrophic Scars: These scars are characterised by a loss of tissue, leading to a sunken or pitted appearance.
2. Hypertrophic Scars: These scars are raised and thick but do not extend beyond the boundaries of the original wound.
3. Keloid Scars: These are overgrown, raised scars that extend beyond the original wound site
4. Contracture Scars: These scars occur when the skin tightens during healing, often affecting underlying muscles and tendons.
5. Stretch Marks (Striae): These are a form of scarring that occurs when the skin is stretched rapidly.
Each scar type may require more or less invasive remedies to lighten its visibility. Now, see the following methods for removing scarring:
Prescribed cream
First things first, the best initial course of action to take is to speak with your doctor. Medical grade creams are often the most effective and can be prescribed depending on the type of scarring you are suffering from. For example, if you are trying to remove acne scarring with acne still present, your doctor will find a suitable cream that won’t irritate your skin more. Prescribed creams that are not accessible over the counter are harder to get because of their tailoring effect. So, speak with your doctor about your scarring concerns and see what they recommend.
Scar massage
For more invasive scarring, such as those developed following plastic surgery, you will benefit from scar massages. Scar massaging is beneficial in flattening the scar area that may be liable to rise, making the scar tissue more flexible and removing sensitivity. Be sure to avoid massaging the scar for at least 4 weeks post-surgery or at least once your doctor has permitted you to do so.
Microneedling
Microneedling is a great way to diminish scarring and blemishes, even damaging ‘ice pick’ scars have been proven to be significantly improved and resurfaced following micro needling. Microneedling works by stimulating the collagen production of the skin by implementing small incisions into the tissue. The small needles are tiny, yet the little impact they have made a huge impact in stimulating collagen that smoothens the skin’s texture and tone. More notable, this procedure is minimally invasive when compared to other methods for scar removal.
Laser resurfacing
Laser resurfacing works similarly to micro needlings, in its ability to ‘zap’ the damaged layer of skin with scarring, and stimulate collagen production. From initial inspection, the laser looks damaging to the skin, However, it is important to note that the skin’s outer layer needs to be removed to encourage a new, clear layer of skin to develop. You will experience sensitivity for up to two days, where make-up or skin creams will not be permitted (only those prescribed by your cosmetic surgeon). Your skin should return to normal, with a much brighter and smoother appearance from week two.
Chemical peel
Chemical peels are another effective way to diminish signs of ageing whilst promoting skin rejuvenation. Peels essentially exfoliate the top layer of skin where scarring may be prominent, and encourage cell regrowth to smooth the skin. It is important to keep in mind that deeper scarring is not as effectively solved with chemical peels. Instead, discolouration and blemishes are best treated with chemical peels.
Natural skin treatments
If you are cautious about trying treatments, sometimes nature is the best answer to signs of scarring. For example, things such as aloe vera, honey and lemon juice have healing properties that lighten the skin layer and promote skin growth and healing. You can even make your very own at-home facemask, using honey, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar and shea butter. For skin that is still susceptible to cane. Tea tree oil is a great solution for killing off bacteria whilst minimising scarring.
Bottom line
Overall, scaring is not pleasant to deal with, especially when it begins to affect your self-confidence. Taking the steps to rejuvenate your skin starts with understanding what types of scars you are dealing with. More surface-level scarring might just need some time and natural skin care remedies to lighten it. For deeper scars, it would be beneficial to ask your doctor for medical-grade creams or opt for cosmetic treatments that remove damaged skin and promote collagen.
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