5 Types of Scars & How to Treat Them

While most of us try to keep our skin looking smooth, seamless, and beautiful, the truth is that scarring is an inevitable process. Any kind of injury to the skin—a bruise, a burn, or an infection—will lead to a scar, which is the skin’s natural way of healing itself. The good news is that there are many ways in which you can treat these scars, reduce their size and diminish their appearance.

Let’s take a look at the 5 most common types of scars on the skin and how you can treat them.

1. 1. Acne scars:

Acne is a very common skin condition. However, severe acne can leave long-term scars on your skin. These acne scars take years to fade away, if at all.

1. 1. Stretch marks:

Severe weight loss, obesity, and pregnancy are the conditions that cause stretch marks. The stretching and tearing of the skin result in these permanent bluish-purple lines across the skin.

1. 1. Atrophic scars:

The scars that are flat against the surface of the skin are called atrophic scars. These are the result of tissue damage that causes the scar to turn to a darker color than the skin.

1. 1. Hypertrophic scars:

Hypertrophic scars are raised or elevated scars that are caused by excess tissue growth atop an infection or wound on the skin.

1. 1. Keloid scars:

Keloid scars are often thick and lumpy in nature, and they appear when the skin repairs itself well beyond the extent of the injury or damage.

The following are some treatment options available for these scars :

1. Topical treatments: Many types of skin scars can easily be treated with the regular use of over-the-counter creams, gels, and lotions.
2. Cosmetic and surgical modifications: Procedures like dermabrasion, skin grafting, laser therapy, and punch technique are used to treat more severe and deep-seated scars.
3. Injections and medication: Both injections and drugs are commonly used to treat a variety of scars on the skin.

The type of treatment you opt for depends on the type and nature of the scar on your skin. In certain cases, your dermatologist may also recommend some natural skincare tips to help diminish the scar.