A pink scar is a normal part of the healing process. However, whether it's "good" depends on the context and how long it persists.
Understanding Pink Scars
New scars, especially on lighter skin, often appear pink or red. This is due to increased blood flow to the healing area. Sources like the American Academy of Dermatology (https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/scars-symptoms) and Cleveland Clinic (https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/11030-scars) confirm this. The pink color usually fades over time, typically within 3-6 months to 12-18 months, becoming closer to your natural skin tone. Several sources, including Krauss Dermatology (https://www.kraussdermatology.com/patient-portal/patient-information/wound-healing-and-scar-formation/), mention this timeframe.
When a Pink Scar Might Indicate a Problem
- Persistence Beyond 12-18 Months: If the pink color remains after 12 to 18 months, it warrants a consultation with a doctor. This is explicitly advised by multiple sources, including Cleveland Clinic and CHP (https://www.chp.edu/our-services/plastic-surgery/resources/scar-management). It might suggest an issue requiring medical attention.
- Raised and Rubbery Texture: A pink scar that becomes raised and feels rubbery instead of flattening is a sign of an abnormal scar process, potentially a hypertrophic scar. Cleveland Clinic (https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21466-hypertrophic-scar) details the characteristics of such scars.
- Keloid Scars: Although the initial appearance may be pink, keloid scars are raised, and grow beyond the original wound boundary. These are permanent and require specific treatments (https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/keloid-scars/).
Conclusion
In short, a pink scar is initially normal but prolonged pink coloration or an abnormal texture necessitates professional evaluation.
