Scars can be both hard and soft, depending on several factors. The texture of a scar changes over time and varies depending on the type of scar.
The Evolution of Scar Texture
Initially, a new scar may feel red, raised, and hard. This is due to the inflammatory process and the formation of new collagen. As scar tissue begins to form, it may appear red, raised, and hard, but over time it fades, flattens, and softens. However, as the scar matures, it typically flattens and softens. Later, the scar becomes soft and has a more natural color in most individuals. This process usually takes several months to years.
Types of Scars and Their Texture
Different types of scars have different textures:
- Hypertrophic scars: These raised scars are often described as hard or thickened. Hard or thickened raised tissue over your wound site. They can be pink, red, or purple.
- Keloid scars: These raised scars extend beyond the original wound boundary. Their texture can vary from soft and doughy to hard and rubbery. Texture often hard and rubbery or soft and doughy. Some keloids feel soft and doughy. Others are hard and rubbery.
- Normal scars: These scars typically become soft over time as they mature. Moisturizing the scar with gentle massage can help facilitate this process. After the incision has healed, any skin moisturizer applied with gentle firm massage to the scar area will help the scar mature.
Softening Hard Scars
Some treatments aim to soften hard scars, particularly hypertrophic and keloid scars. These types of injections can help soften and then shrink hard scars. Keloids and hypertrophic scars often soften after intralesional steroid injections. The effectiveness of these treatments varies depending on the individual and the scar's characteristics.
In summary, while a new scar may initially be hard, most scars eventually soften with time. However, some types of scars, like hypertrophic and keloid scars, may remain firm or even hard.
