Scars disrupt your skin’s smooth look

When your skin is cut, torn or burned, it may not heal completely. If your tissue regenerates following a change in the skin’s structure, you’ll end up with a permanent scar–especially if the middle layer (the dermis) is affected.

Scar tissue may appear red, pink, shiny or white. There are several types of scars:

Hypertrophic: Raised, red scars that result from too much collagen growth following an injury.

Keloid: Raised scars that are often dark red, thick, and can keep growing over time (with painful and itchy symptoms) if left untreated.

Contracture: Second and third-degree burns can cause these scars, which make the skin ultra-tight and can reduce movement.

Acne: Serious acne can result in sunken scars, usually taking on the appearance of pits or ‘pock marks’.

Stretch marks: When your skin stretches quickly over a short period of time–such as during a growth spurt, rapid weight gain or pregnancy–your skin may tear.

This is why you have scars

Depending on your age, sex, ethnicity, genetics, and depth/location of the injury, you may experience different levels of scarring. Surgery, injuries, piercings, burns, acne, quick growth or weight gain, and pregnancy can leave you with red lines, lesions, and uneven skin.

There are several methods for scar improvement

While scars can fade naturally over time, many will stay bright and prominent without treatment. If yours are in a visible place like your face or hands, you might be eager to find scar reduction options.

We use laser therapy for smoothing. Technologies like PicoSure, Excel-V and Fraxel can make your scars flatter and lighter. If you have acne scars, we may also consider dermal fillers to raise the area.

Like many skin rejuvenation treatments, it may take several visits to get the best results. Talk to a Pacific Derm dermatologist to find out how easy it will be to reclaim smooth, even skin.