Most scars fade over time without any treatment. However, some scars may remain visible, especially those that are deeper or larger. Scars are made of disordered bundles of fibrous protein called collagen, which are laid down in the skin as the body attempts to heal itself after injury. The appearance and prominence of a scar depend on its location, size, and type.
While you cannot completely eliminate a scar, there are treatments available to improve its appearance. A doctor can recommend treatments or refer you to a specialist if a scar is more severe or bothering you.
Examples of scar treatments:
- Laser therapy: Reduces the appearance of scars by removing the top layer of skin.
- Microdermabrasion: Exfoliates the skin to improve its texture and reduce the appearance of scars.
- Silicone gel sheets: Help to flatten and soften scars.
Factors that influence scar appearance:
- Location: Scars on the face or other visible areas tend to be more noticeable.
- Depth: Deeper wounds are more likely to leave scars.
- Size: Larger wounds are more likely to leave scars.
- Type of injury: Some injuries, such as burns, are more likely to leave scars than others.
