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SCARS
Scarring is the result of deep injury to the skin. In resp onse to injury, special cells called fibroblasts secrete collagen to repair the damage. Many factors influence the extent of repair
and the final appearance of the scar. Location, size, and depth of the injury are important as some areas of the body have a predisposition for excessive scarring.
Susceptible areas include the ears, upper chest, outer arms, and back. Healing is a complex process that generally occurs over one year’s time. Prevention of wound infections and
maintaining an overall state of good health and nutrition are important to the healing process.
Some individuals actually have a genetic predisposition for excessive scarring. Scars that are enlarged with a “heaped up” appearance are called keloids.
Keloids result from fibroblast overactivity. 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.
Scar Treatments:
Acne scarring consists of depressions in the skin. It requires more aggressive approaches and cannot be cured by creams and superficial treatments.
Dermabrasion, laser, surgical excision, subcision and collagen are effective when combined and used in the appropriate situations. Acid peels and microdermabrasion do lessen the appearance of fine scars: however, they do not address deep skin scarring. Make sure
your physician discusses realistic outcomes. Acne scarring is difficult but not impossible to treat.
<Glycolic Acid Peels
 Skin discoloration from acne does not represent scarring. This type
of discoloration represents resolving deep inflammation. Topical bleaching agents are helpful initially. Discoloration usually resolves within six months once the acne is controlled. The first step is to
address the acne. Acne is controlled with daily use of medications and conservative skin care. (See Acne).
Skin Lightening Gel >
Over the years, many different treatments have been recommended for scar improvement. Historically, one of the most popular remedies involves
the application of topical vitamin E. At this time, there is no scientific evidence to support that topical vitamin E is beneficial. In fact, people may actually
develop a contact dermatitis from this type of treatment.
Scar treatments vary and some are more successful that others. Many physicians will inject scars with cortisone in an attempt to decrease the
fibroblast overactivity. Multiple injections are usually necessary for improvement. Surgical excision of the scar is another means to remove the
overgrown skin. Unfortunately, this also creates a scar that may be even worse than the original.
Silicone sheets or gels show promise for scar revision. Best results are obtained when the silicone is placed in contact with the scar 24 hours a day,
many months at a time. The scars improve but never completely resolve.
 Finally, a new medication called Medermaâ seems to be very effective for scar revision. This is a botanical extract with deep penetrating ability. It is beneficial for scars resulting from
surgery, accidents/injuries, and burns. It’s also been shown to improve stretch marks, acne scars and old existing scars. The scar is rubbed gently three to four times a day. Depending on the rate
of improvement, treatment may be ongoing for up to six months. The manufacturer guarantees improvement in the color, texture and overall appearance of the scar.
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