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| Frequently Asked Questions Archive |
Dr. Scott Sheftel
Board Certified Dermatologist
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Q: I was a real tomboy growing up, now that I'm an adult I have scars that are more than 10 years old and have left a permanent scar on my legs. I've tried skin bleaching creams, but nothing seems to work. Is there anything I can do to have scar-free legs. I'm so tired of wearing pants and covering up my legs.
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A: Some of the newer photolight machines and newer lasers can lighten the scars. These procedures rarely make them disappear. Go to a laser specialist in your community. There are a number of good machines that can help.
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Q: I put on weight drastically a few years ago leaving stretch marks on my bottom. The skin tone of my inner thigh is also darker than normal. What can I do to overcome these two problems?
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A: Stretch marks, medically called striae, result from stretching of the skin from pregnancy, weight gain/loss or increased muscle mass. The collagen and elastic fibers in the skin have "changed" to accommodate the increased tension on the skin. Many stretch marks have improved with topical massage and scar creams such as Mederma. At this time, unfortunately, there are no creams or procedures that will make them disappear completely. |
Q: Five years ago I had laser surgury on an existing scar I have on my forehead. After the surgery the scar healed nicely, smooth and flat. However, the scar has remained extremely red and I am worried that it is never going to fade. I have been to several dermatoligists and they all say the same thing "the redness will fade with time". I have been waiting almost five years for this scar to fade. I wish someone could do something for me or give me some solid answers.
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A: Healing scars have increased blood circulation and the architecture of the skin is somewhat different than surrounding normal skin. A few options are available to address the appearance and texture of a scar. First, it is very important to rub the area firmly at least five minutes twice a day (always wait at least a month after surgery). As for the red appearance, an over the counter topical scar medicine called Mederma has been very helpful for many people. This is probably the most economical approach. Also helpful are silicone sheets or gels and a different laser specifically for "red" in the skin. You probably need to see a physician for the last two options. This is difficult - good luck. |
Q: I had a car accident almost three years ago, and have had plastic surgery on my face twice. There was scarring and less than a month ago I had some dermabrasion. My skin is still discolored and to me the scars appear to be the same. How long does the discoloration last and is there any concealer for this besides the "green"? Also, is there anything to make the scars less noticeable?
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A: Scars mature differently in each individual. It can take a year or more for a scar to fully mature. Ask your plastic surgeon about Mederma. This cream and mechanical manipulation help scars mature. I also send patients for corrective cosmetics such as Dermablend. |
Q: I am a Singaporean having two keloids on my arm and mid chest area. I had a pimple on my chest area and went to consult the doctor when it grew bigger. Thereafter, I did an operation but the keloid became very big. I did my surgery about 6 years ago. Now the keloid is about 2" by 2", dark and unsightly. I dare not go back for a surgery. Is there any medicine to lighten and flatten the scar?
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A: Some individuals have a genetic predisposition for excessive scarring. Scars that are enlarged with a "heaped up" appearance are called keloids. Keloids result from skin cells called fibroblasts. These cells are over stimulated and overactive. It is unclear why some people produce keloids and others do not. Scars that are elevated above the surface but are confined within wound boundaries are called hypertrophic. Once a scar is present, it will never go away completely. There are several options besides surgery that can improve the appearance of scars. Briefly these include: injections of cortisone, silicone sheeting, topical scar creams or possibly localized radiation to the scar area. Read about Scars in YourSkinDoctor.com and consult with your physician to review your options. |
Q: I know this might sound weird but a couple months ago I had pulled hairs from my legs with tweezers and it caused a red mark everywhere I pulled; some were kind of like scabs and some where just red and a little puffy. I still have red marks all over my legs and now I am concerned that those are scars and I will not be able to get rid of them.
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A: Mederma topical gel is recommended for use on scars resulting from accidents/injuries and seems to be very effective in scar revision. Also, the manufacturer guarantees an improvement in color, texture and overall appearance of the scar. Read my write-up on Scars on YourSkinDoctor.com |
Q: I have sensitive skin and if I get my skin pierced I grow a keloid. I had one when I got my ear pierced. I was wondering if I would get one if I get my tongue pierced?
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A: Keloids result from overactive cells in the skin called fibroblasts. Certain people are prone to this type of healing. Treatments range from injections of cortisone into the keloid or possibly surgery and/or radiation. Is it worth risking fate?
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Q: I am suffering from a 1/4" x 1/4 " hypertrophic scarring. Its very hard and I was wondering what could flatten it or make it disappear. I tried silicone sheet and rubbing essential oils but it doesn’t seem to to abate. Would shots or surgery do the trick? Please advise, I hate the scar!
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A: Healing is very individualized. Some people heal great and others poorly. Regional areas of the body such as the upper chest, back, and outer arms classically heal with heaped-up, spreading or keloidal scarring. Conservative treatments include daily massage, scar ointments and silicone sheet coverings. This process may take many months. If the above is ineffective, other treatments such as cortisone injections, surgical removal or radiation should be considered. Talk out all your options with your dermatologist.
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