Scarring is the result of the skin’s reaction to trauma after an accident, surgery or burns and most of us have a few scars from past injury.
Scars develop as part of the body’s healing process of the body. When the skin is injured, the body sends white blood cells to the area to fight infection and remove dead cells. The body also produces collagen, a protein that helps to form scar tissue.
When there is damage to the skin, the body produces collagen to repair the injured area. Collagen forms a dense network of fibres at the site of the injury, which creates scar tissue.
Scars are left when the body’s natural repair and healing process is unable to repair damaged tissue completely. This tissue is usually different in texture and colour than the surrounding skin, giving it its characteristic appearance. While the colour tends to fade over time from red to a flesh or white colour, the scar may be left with a different texture. It could be firmer and less elastic with different contours. Some scars are raised while others are pitted or depressions, which makes them noticeably different from the rest of the skin. Loss of elasticity can give rise to tight areas that can be uncomfortable and restrict movement.
What affects scarring?
There are a number of factors that can increase the risk and severity of scarring, including:
- Depth and severity of the injury
- Location of the injury
- Age
- Skin type
- Genetic makeup
- Infection
- Smoking
- Poor nutrition
- Individual’s healing process
How can I reduce the risk of scarring?
If your skin is still healing, then there are a number of things that can be done to reduce the risk of scarring, including:
- Keep the wound clean and covered
- Avoid picking the scab
- Frequent and generous application of moisturiser or ‘scar balm’ to the wound
- Regular exercise
- Healthy diet
- Avoid smoking
Do I need scarring treatment?
Most of us have a few scars, it’s just part of life’s story. They do tend to fade and become less noticeable with time, although scarring should be considered a long term issue.
If you have a scar that is causing discomfort or in a very prominent place (e.g. facial, arms, legs), then you may wish to consider treatment.
Scarring Treatments To Consider:
