Scars are hard because of the type of tissue that forms during the healing process.
When the skin is wounded deeply, extending into the dermis layer or deeper, the body repairs the damage by producing collagen. According to the reference, collagen is:
- Thicker than regular skin.
- Less flexible than regular skin.
This results in a scar, a patch of tissue that is denser and therefore feels harder compared to the surrounding, undamaged skin. The following table summarizes the key differences:
| Feature | Regular Skin | Scar Tissue |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Protein | Various | Collagen |
| Collagen Density | Normal | Higher |
| Flexibility | More Flexible | Less Flexible |
| Texture | Softer | Harder |
In essence, the scar is a stronger but less pliable repair job, which is why it feels hard.
