Scars are a natural part of the skin's healing process. While most scars are harmless, they can be a source of distress for many individuals, especially if they affect the face or other visible areas of the body. Scarring can result from various factors, including injuries, surgeries, burns, and skin conditions like acne. Although scars are permanent, there are numerous treatments available that can help reduce their appearance and discomfort.

According to research published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology (2024), over 40% of adults seek professional scar treatments annually—most commonly for acne, surgical, or burn-related scars.

In this article, we'll delve deep into the types of scars, why they form, and effective treatments. We'll also address common questions regarding scar removal, care tips, and discuss what makes certain scar treatments more effective than others.

What Are Scars?

Scars are areas of fibrous tissue that replace normal skin after an injury or damage to the skin. They are a natural part of the skin's healing process, created when the dermis, the deeper layer of skin, is damaged. The body produces collagen, a protein that helps in healing the wound, leading to the formation of scar tissue.

While scars are permanent, their appearance can vary, and over time, they often fade and become less noticeable. However, some scars, especially those that form in areas of repeated movement or constant irritation, can become more noticeable and cause discomfort.

Scientific reviews (Mustoe et al., Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, 2008) confirm that the balance between collagen overproduction and moisture loss determines whether a scar becomes hypertrophic, keloid, or remains flat. Maintaining hydration with medical-grade silicone gel can significantly reduce visible scarring.

Types of Scars (Mega Overview)

Understanding the different types of scars is crucial in determining the most effective scar treatments. Each type has its unique characteristics and requires specific treatment approaches:

1. Keloid Scars:
   Keloids are raised scars that extend beyond the boundaries of the original wound. They occur when the body produces too much collagen during the healing process. Keloids can be itchy, painful, and, in some cases, can continue to grow over time. They are more common in individuals with darker skin tones.

2. Hypertrophic Scars:
   Hypertrophic scars are similar to keloids but do not extend beyond the wound site. They are raised and can be red or purple in color. These scars typically improve over time, though they can remain raised and sometimes become itchy.

3. Atrophic Scars:
   Atrophic scars are indented or sunken scars that occur when the skin loses collagen during healing. These types of scars are often seen with acne or chickenpox. Common types of atrophic scars include ice pick scars, boxcar scars, and rolling scars.

4. Contracture Scars:
   Contracture scars typically result from burns and cause the skin to tighten, which may impair movement. These scars can also affect the muscles and nerves underneath the skin, leading to restricted mobility.

5. Flat Scars:
   Flat scars are the most common type and usually form after a minor injury. These scars gradually flatten and blend with the surrounding skin. They are usually not noticeable once fully healed.
   
   

Why Scars Form

Scars form as a result of the body’s natural healing process after an injury. When the skin is damaged, the body produces collagen to help repair the wound. Collagen helps the skin regain its structure, but this tissue can look and feel different from normal skin.

The healing process has four distinct stages: hemostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling. Silicone therapy works primarily during the remodeling phase—helping control collagen distribution and moisture balance.

The severity of the scar depends on multiple factors:

• Depth and size of the injury

• Location of the injury

• How the injury healed

• The body’s collagen production

• Skin type and genetics

In most cases, the scar tissue becomes less noticeable over time. However, some individuals may develop more noticeable scars due to increased collagen production or poor healing.

Factors Affecting Scar Appearance

Several factors play a role in how scars form and their appearance:

1. Age:
   Younger individuals tend to heal more efficiently, resulting in less noticeable scars, while older individuals may develop more pronounced scars due to slower healing processes.

2. Genetics:
   Some people are genetically predisposed to form more prominent scars, including keloids or hypertrophic scars.

3. Location of the Scar:
   Scars that form on areas of the body with more movement (such as the knees, elbows, or joints) may become more noticeable. Scars on the face can also be particularly bothersome due to their visibility.

4. Sun Exposure:
   Scars exposed to the sun can become darker and more noticeable. It’s essential to apply sunscreen to scarred areas to minimize this risk.

5. Skin Type and Ethnicity:
   Darker skin tones are more prone to developing keloid scars, while fair-skinned individuals may be more susceptible to atrophic scars or those that form depressions in the skin.

Dermatologists recommend using broad-spectrum protection like BIOCORNEUM® with SPF 30 on healing scars to prevent UV-induced pigmentation.

Can Scars Be Permanently Removed?

Unfortunately, scars are permanent. However, treatments can significantly reduce their appearance and make them less noticeable over time. The goal of scar treatments is to improve the color, texture, and size of the scar, making it less obvious to others.

While no treatment can completely erase a scar, various treatments can help fade scars, reduce redness, and smooth the skin's surface. Depending on the scar type, some treatments may need to be performed over a long period of time to achieve the desired result.

How Long Do Scars Take to Fade?

The time it takes for a scar to fade varies greatly depending on the type of scar and its location on the body. In general, most scars take about 6 months to 2 years to fully mature. The initial healing period is marked by inflammation, redness, and swelling, followed by a longer period of fading and softening.

• Fresh Scars (0-6 months): New scars are typically red or purple and may be raised. This is the phase where most scar treatments are most effective.

• Mature Scars (6 months-2 years): Over time, scars fade in color and become flatter. The scar tissue hardens and becomes more permanent, but treatments can still improve its appearance.

• Beyond 2 Years: After the two-year mark, most scars no longer improve. If significant changes haven't occurred by then, the scar is likely permanent.

Studies show silicone gels like BIOCORNEUM® improve elasticity and flatten scars even up to two years after formation (Plast. Reconstr. Surg., 2016).

Scar Care 101

Taking proper care of your scars from the start can help ensure that they heal as effectively as possible. Here are some essential scar care tips:

1. Keep the Scar Moisturized:
   Apply a gentle moisturizer or petroleum jelly to the scar to keep it hydrated and promote healing.

2. Use Sunscreen:
   Protect the scar from the sun by applying broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. This helps prevent pigmentation changes and keeps the scar from darkening.

3. Avoid Picking at the Scar:
   Picking or scratching the scar can damage the skin and cause it to form thicker, more visible tissue.

4. Massage the Scar:
   Once the wound has fully healed, massaging the scar can help break down the excess collagen and reduce the visibility of the scar.

5. Use Silicone Scar Treatments: Get our professional-grade silicone scar treatment BIOCORNECUM here.

BIOCORNEUM® combines professional-grade Silishield® technology with SPF 30, creating a breathable, flexible barrier that supports collagen normalization while protecting scars from UV damage.

Types of Scars and Their Treatments

Each type of scar requires different treatment methods. Here are the most common scar types and their corresponding treatments:

• Keloid Scars:
  Steroid injections and silicone sheets are commonly used to flatten keloid scars. In some cases, cryotherapy (freezing) or laser therapy may be recommended to shrink the scar.

• Hypertrophic Scars:
  These scars may benefit from laser treatments or steroid creams to reduce their size and appearance.

• Atrophic Scars (e.g., acne scars):
  Dermal fillers and microneedling can help fill in depressed scars. Laser resurfacing and chemical peels can also improve the texture of the skin.

• Contracture Scars:
  Surgical intervention may be required to release the tightness caused by contracture scars. Skin grafting or Z-plasty may be used to help restore movement.

• Flat Scars:
  These scars typically do not require any treatments, but topical silicone gels or corticosteroid creams can help them fade more quickly.

Skin Cancer in a Scar

In rare cases, skin cancer can develop in a scar. This is why it is essential to have a dermatologist assess any scar that changes in size, color, or texture over time. If you notice an unusual growth or change in your scar, or if you don’t remember the injury that caused it, schedule a dermatology appointment as soon as possible.

Click here to learn more about “Skin Cancer in a scar”

Key signs of skin cancer in scars include:

• Unexplained pain or tenderness in the scar

• Rapid growth or enlargement of the scar

• Change in color, shape, or texture

• Bleeding or oozing from the scar

BIOCORNEUM®’s SPF 30 protection helps shield post-surgical scars (including melanoma or basal cell carcinoma excision scars) from UV-induced discoloration and inflammation.

Scarification (Body Modification)

Scarification is a form of body modification where intentional scars are created for artistic or cultural purposes. Unlike accidental scars, which form due to injury, scarification involves controlled methods of cutting, burning, or branding the skin to produce permanent, artistic scars. This practice is common in certain cultures or subcultures and is usually performed by professionals in a sterile environment.

While scarification creates permanent marks, it can have significant medical risks, including infection, keloid formation, and emotional distress. Anyone considering scarification should carefully weigh the potential consequences and ensure that they undergo the procedure with a qualified professional.

Medical experts recommend pre- and post-care with medical-grade silicone to minimize raised scar formation and discomfort following intentional procedures.

Conclusion

Scars are permanent, but with the right care, their appearance and feel can be significantly improved.

Consistent use of clinically proven silicone therapy like BIOCORNEUM® softens, flattens, and protects scars—helping you achieve smoother, clearer skin.

Whether you’re managing acne scars, surgical scars, or burn contractures, early intervention and sun protection are key to lasting results.

Beautiful outcomes begin with BIOCORNEUM®.

FAQs

1. What is the best treatment for scars?
   The best treatment depends on the type of scar, its location, and your skin type. Common treatments include silicone sheets, laser therapy, and corticosteroid injections.

2. Does vitamin E help scars?
   Vitamin E has been traditionally used to treat scars, but its effectiveness is debated. It's best to consult with a dermatologist before using vitamin E on scars.

3. How do you treat scars on kids?
   Scar treatments for children are similar to those for adults but should be discussed with a pediatric dermatologist. Gentle options like silicone gels or pressure therapy are often recommended.

4. How to quickly get rid of a scar?
   While no treatment can completely eliminate a scar quickly, early intervention with silicone sheets, corticosteroid creams, and laser therapy can speed up the healing process and reduce scar visibility.