Oman- Scars are skin effects that appear as a result of various injuries or wounds, and they may be a source of discomfort because of their effect on the appearance of the skin. This report discusses the causes of scars, their different types, and the latest treatments available to improve the appearance of the skin and mitigate their effects.
Dr. Salam Abdullah Rajoub, a specialist in dermatology and laser therapy, says that a scar is a fibrous tissue in which normal tissue is replaced after any injury to the skin. It is a product of the natural process in which the body attempts to regenerate, heal and heal.
Scar forms
Dr. Salam explained that wounds may lead to the appearance of several forms of scarring, which can be summarized as follows:
- Natural scars: Natural scars appear in the form of fine, fine lines. They are usually painless and do not require special treatment.
- Keloid scar: This scar is formed as a result of tissue overgrowth, where collagen accumulates irregularly, leading to the formation of thick tissue that grows beyond the boundaries of the wound. It can be accompanied by symptoms such as pain or itching.
- Hypertrophic Scar: This scar also occurs as a result of tissue overgrowth, but it does not exceed the boundaries of the original wound. They are usually thick and raised above the surface of the skin, and are initially red in color.
- Stretch Marks: These scars appear when the skin expands or contracts too quickly. They appear in the form of thin or wide cracks, which start out red and then turn white over time.
- Acne Scars: These scars take many forms as a result of deep skin infections, such as pits or deep scars that resemble pyramid heads, squares, or with rounded edges.
Causes of scar formation
Dr. Salam explained that scar formation depends largely on the nature of the skin and genetic factors. Although the exact cause of scar formation is unknown, there are factors that increase the chances of their appearance, such as:
- Ethnic factors: People of African or Asian descent are more likely to develop keloid scars.
- Blood type A: It may play a role in increasing the chances of acne scarring.
- Smoking or playing with inflamed pimples may increase the possibility of scarring.
- Genetic diseases that affect collagen formation in the skin may also contribute to increased chances of scarring.
Scar treatment methods
- Home treatment: Some home treatments can help improve the appearance of scars, such as using skin exfoliants that contain salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or retinol. But it is important that they be used under the supervision of a specialist doctor, so that the appropriate type and concentration are determined for each skin type.
- Treatment in specialized clinics: Dr. Rajoub confirmed that medical treatment in specialized clinics is the best option for people who suffer from stubborn scars. Treatments vary according to the type of scar:
- Treatment of keloid and hypertrophic scars: Treatment includes steroid injection into the scar site (Intralesional Steroid Injection), cauterization using cold nitrogen (Cryotherapy), laser treatment such as PDL Laser, or surgical removal of the scar (Surgical Revision).
- Treatment of acne scars and skin cracks: Treatments include chemical peeling, laser resurfacing, microneedling, dermabrasion, or even surgery to remove scars. Techniques such as cutting the fibrotic tissue and filling the scar using fillers (Subcision and Filler) can also be used.
Dr. Salam also stressed the importance of prevention in dealing with scars, as she stressed that prevention is always better than treatment. To avoid worsening the scarring problem, I advise patients to follow the following tips:
- Treating acne and skin infections in their early stages to avoid scar formation.
- Avoid tampering with inflamed pimples or removing them in an unhygienic manner.
- Use reliable creams under medical supervision and do not resort to creams of unknown origin.
- Commitment to using sunscreen daily to protect the skin during treatment, as exposure to sunlight may increase skin sensitivity and contribute to scar formation.
Dr. Salam confirms that skin care and preventing the exacerbation of infections are the first steps in successful treatment of scars. With the many treatment options available in specialized clinics, each person can choose the most appropriate solution according to his skin type and condition.
The latest treatments for skin scars
Dr. Nada Zayed, a specialist in dermatology, medical cosmetology and laser, says that the most prominent developments in the field of scar treatment have positively affected the available treatments and opened a new horizon for improving the appearance of the skin, treating scars more efficiently, and accelerating the healing process, including:
- Fractional Laser: Fractional laser is considered one of the latest effective methods for treating scars. This type of laser relies on stimulating the skin to produce new collagen, which improves skin texture and reduces the appearance of scars.
- Platelet-rich plasma treatment: This treatment helps effectively regenerate skin tissue, as plasma is extracted from the patient’s blood and used to stimulate the growth of new cells in the affected area, which enhances skin elasticity and reduces the effects of scarring.
- Advanced chemical peeling: The therapist uses strong acids such as trichloroacetic acid to get rid of damaged superficial layers of the skin, which improves the appearance of superficial scars such as acne scars and gives the skin a fresher appearance.
- Fillers: Fillers are used to treat deep scars that leave gaps in the skin. These substances help fill the scar and significantly improve the appearance of the skin.
- Radiofrequency with microneedles (Microneedling): This technique contributes to stimulating skin cell regeneration and reducing the depth of scars. It softens the skin and stimulates it to produce collagen, which contributes to improving the appearance of scars over time.
How to determine the most appropriate treatment for the scar
Dr. Nada emphasized that choosing the appropriate treatment depends on the type of scar and its characteristics, such as depth, shape, and location. Key tips for choosing the most appropriate treatment include:
Firstly. Consult a specialist doctor: to know the type of scar and accurately evaluate its condition.
secondly. Choosing treatment based on the type of scar: such as:
- Acne scars: They are treated using fractional laser or micro-needling.
- Surgical scars: require laser treatment or topical silicone.
- Pigmented scars: They are treated with chemical peeling or laser to remove pigmentation.
- Side effects of treatments and how to deal with them
Dr. Nada explained that despite the effectiveness of modern treatments, they may be associated with some side effects that must be treated with caution:
- Laser treatment: It may cause temporary redness or swelling, and it is recommended to use skin-soothing creams and sunscreen to protect the skin after treatment.
- Chemical peeling: It may lead to skin peeling or irritation, and this can be avoided by using medicated moisturizers.
- Microneedling and radiofrequency: Some temporary bruising or redness may occur, which usually disappears within a few days.
- Fillers: They may cause swelling or mild bruising, but these symptoms disappear quickly.
Duration of treatment and expected results
Dr. Nada said that the treatment period and the time it takes for results to appear depends on the type of scar. Superficial scars usually require one session, while deeper scars may require 3 to 6 sessions, at intervals of 4 to 6 weeks. Final results usually appear 2-3 months after the end of treatment.
Important tips to improve skin appearance:
- Follow a regular skin care regimen that includes gently cleansing and moisturizing your skin daily.
- Avoid excessive exposure to the sun and use sunscreen daily.
- Consult a specialist doctor to determine the most appropriate treatment for your specific type of scar.
- Be patient: treating scars takes time and effort to get the best results.
Dr. Nada Zayed confirms that scar treatment has become more effective thanks to modern medical developments. With early medical consultation and selection of the most appropriate treatment, patients can significantly improve the appearance of their skin. Prevention and continuous skin care are the basis for preventing the appearance of scars in the future and achieving satisfactory and rapid results.