Treatment FAQ

what is the best treatment for facial scars

by Cleve Nitzsche Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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What's the best treatment for acne scars?
  • Steroid injection. ...
  • Laser resurfacing. ...
  • Other energy-based procedures. ...
  • Dermabrasion. ...
  • Chemical peel. ...
  • Skin needling. ...
  • Surgery. ...
  • OnabotulinumtoxinA (Botox). Sometimes the skin around acne scars puckers.

What is the best product to reduce scars?

“The best way to reduce or lighten scars, bar none, is to use a quality topical silicone product with sunscreen in it,” says dermatologist Dr. Matt Elias. “We love topical silicones with SPF and recommend that all of our scar patients use them regularly.

How to soften facial scars?

When poorly done, concealer can cause creases and caking - often exaggerating the appearance of those spots, scars, or dark circles you were trying ... but it pays to go slow and work in light layers for a soft, natural finish. “Use a small amount ...

What is the best ointment for Scars?

  • Formula: Water
  • Best for: Facial scars
  • Additional Benefits: Allantoin for cell growth

What is the best cream for Scars?

Best for Acne Scars: The Ordinary Deciem Azelaic Acid Suspension; Best for Face: Honeydew Scar Cream; Best for Body: Cicatricure Scar Gel; Best for After Surgery: ScarAway Medical-Grade Silicone ...

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How can I remove scars from my face permanently?

Read on for 10 options to discuss with your skin care specialist.Over-the-counter (OTC) scar treatment cream. ... Facial massage. ... Chemical peels. ... Microdermabrasion. ... Dermabrasion. ... Microneedling. ... Fillers. ... Ablative laser resurfacing.More items...

What is the fastest way to heal a scar on your face?

Proper wound care: How to minimize a scarAlways keep your cut, scrape or other skin injury clean. ... To help the injured skin heal, use petroleum jelly to keep the wound moist. ... After cleaning the wound and applying petroleum jelly or a similar ointment, cover the skin with an adhesive bandage.More items...

What is the best treatment to fade scars?

Experts agree that in-office laser treatments are the most effective way to improve the appearance of scars. “Lasers can target pigment in the scar or help remodel the collagen to heal the scar texture,” board-certified dermatologist Dr.

Can you fix facial scars?

Treatments include surgery to remove the scar, steroid injections, or silicone sheets to flatten the scar. Smaller keloids can be treated using cryotherapy (freezing therapy using liquid nitrogen). You can also prevent keloid formation by using pressure treatment or gel pads with silicone when you are injured.

Is vitamin E Good for scar?

Conclusions: This study shows that there is no benefit to the cosmetic outcome of scars by applying vitamin E after skin surgery and that the application of topical vitamin E may actually be detrimental to the cosmetic appearance of a scar.

Does silicone gel work on old scars?

Silicone can help reduce the appearance of new scars, though it may not improve the appearance of old scars. Doctors have used silicone sheeting for over 35 years , and silicone gel is also now in use. Evidence seems to suggest that these options are effective at reducing scars and improving their appearance.

Does Mederma really work?

DOES MEDERMA WORK? In a comprehensive evidence-based review on the role of topicals and dressings in the management of skin scarring, two studies found that Mederma could improve the appearance and symptoms of wounds following shave excision of seborrheic keratoses.

Can a dermatologist help with scars?

Dermatologists are at the forefront of researching and treating scars with lasers. In the hands of a board-certified dermatologist, laser treatment can safely treat many types of scars.

Can I use Mederma on my face?

A: Yes, Mederma gel can be used on the face; however, while applying near the eye area, make sure it does not get into the eyes.

Can a plastic surgeon remove a facial scar?

Facial Scar Surgery Plastic surgery can remove some contracture scars entirely, leaving a smooth, virtually seamless appearance. In other cases, flaps of adjacent healthy skin may be lifted and repositioned to improve both appearance and functionality.

How do plastic surgeons fix scars?

Your surgeon will use one of several possible techniques to revise the scar. They may use a skin graft or skin flap to close the wound. After making the appropriate incisions, your surgeon will close the wound with sutures. In some complex cases, a surgeon may choose to suture together the tissue in layers.

Is Bio oil good for scars?

Bio-Oil helps to improve the appearance of new or old scars; whether from surgery, accidents, burns, insect bites, scratches or conditions such as acne or chickenpox. Although younger scars will have a greater chance of improvement, studies have shown that older scars also benefit from regular use of Bio-Oil.

Types of Scars

There are several types of scars and different treatments depending on the type of scar and how mature the scar is.

Medical Reasons to Treat Scars

It’s perfectly normal to seek treatment for scars because you don’t like the way that they look. However, you may have some medical reasons for scar treatment:

What to Know Before Treatment

Before you embark on treatment for a scar, there are a few helpful things to know:

Home Remedies and Over-the-Counter Scar Treatments

You can try a few home remedies or over-the-counter treatments for scars.

Scar Treatments Provided by a Doctor

If over-the-counter treatments don’t help, or if the scar is particularly large or concerning, seek help from a doctor for your scar. Dermatologists and plastic surgeons have many treatment options nowadays, Hruza says. Your doctor will consider several factors to help steer treatment:

Do's and Don'ts of Shopping for Skin Care Products

The U.S. News Health team delivers accurate information about health, nutrition and fitness, as well as in-depth medical condition guides. All of our stories rely on multiple, independent sources and experts in the field, such as medical doctors and licensed nutritionists.

What is the best treatment for raised scars?

Steroid injection. Injecting steroids into some types of raised scars can improve the appearance of your skin. Laser resurfacing. This approach is increasingly popular and is often used on scars that were once treated with dermabrasion.

How to get rid of acne scars?

It's a safe, simple and possibly effective technique for acne scarring. It has minimal risk of discoloring the skin. Results are subtle, and you may need repeat treatments. Surgery. Using a minor procedure called punch excision, your doctor cuts out individual acne scars and repairs the wound with stitches or a skin graft.

What is the procedure to remove acne scars?

Dermabrasion. This procedure is usually reserved for more severe scarring. Your doctor removes the top layer of skin with a rapidly rotating brush or other device. Surface scars may be completely removed, and deeper acne scars may appear less noticeable.

What to use to fill in indented scars?

Some medicated creams, such as those containing azelaic acid or hydroxyl acids, might help too. Soft tissue fillers. Injecting collagen, fat or other substances under the skin can plump the skin over indented scars. The goal is to make the scars less noticeable.

Is there a single treatment for acne scars?

Answer From Lawrence E. Gibson, M.D. Acne scars are stubborn, and no single treatment is best for everyone. One or a combination of the following approaches might improve the appearance of your skin, depending on your scar type, your skin type and the severity of the scarring. Home skin care.

Does Botox help acne scars?

Sometimes the skin around acne scars puckers. Injecting Botox relaxes the surrounding skin, which may improve the appearance of an acne scar. Results are temporary, so repeat treatments are needed to retain the effect. With.

How to treat acne scars?

Fractional Microneedle Radiofrequency (AKA Fractional RF Microneedle) is one of the most effective, non-surgical treatments currently available to treat depressed acne scars. This treatment combines two highly effective skin rejuvenation treatments—micro-needling and radiofrequency—for even greater efficacy with minimal downtime and side effects. It works by inserting very thin, ultrasharp, gold-plated needles into the skin's dermis (micro-needling). Once the needles reach a certain skin depth (variable—.25-5mm), they produce mild heat (radiofrequency), which stimulates new collagen production, ultimately filling out depressed scars. With minimal side effects (red skin for a few hours), patients can go back to school or work as early as the next day with no noticeable treatment signs.

Why do I have acne scars?

Acne scars result from active acne inflammation in the dermis (i.e., the thick layer of living tissue below the epidermis, which gives strength to the skin). The acne scar is actually created by the wound trying to heal itself, resulting in the overproduction of collagen fibers in the area where the pimple once was.

What is fractional laser?

Fractional Laser Resurfacing (also referred to as a "laser peel") is another treatment for acne scars that works by directing pulsating beams of light (lasers) at the skin. There are two main types of laser resurfacing, Ablative and non-ablative fractional lasers.

What causes scars to be depressed?

Subcision (cutting under the scar with a scalpel): One of the causes of depressed scars is collagen fiber that pulls down the skin's surface. In Subcutaneous incision (AKA subcision), a needle or small scalpel is inserted to run parallel to the skin's surface.

How does dermal filler work?

How it works: dermal fillers help reduce the appearance of depressed acne scars by inserting a needle underneath the scarred area and depositing the fluid of choice until the scar depression is filled. The amount of filler used will vary and depend on the number of scars being treated and the scars' severity.

What are the scars that are atrophic?

Atrophic Scars: These depressed or raised scars can be divided into different groups; Icepick scars: Deep, narrow scars that appear like pinpoint pits (deeper than they are wide). Rolling acne scars: Broad, inconsistent depressions that give the skin a wave-like appearance.

What is a boxcar scar?

Boxcar scars: Sharply defined, pitted scars that are depressed with steep borders. These are usually round or oval and tend to appear on the temples and the cheeks. Boxcar scars are more difficult to treat than another type of acne scar.

How to get rid of scars on face?

Coconut oil. Heat a few tablespoons of coconut oil, just enough to liquefy it. Massage the oil into the scar for about 10 minutes. Let the skin absorb the oil for a minimum of one hour. Repeat two to four times every day. Buy coconut oil now.

How to make scars less noticeable?

The takeaway. If you want to make a scar look less noticeable, you may want to try a natural remedy. There are many people who believe that natural remedies can get the job done. As with any home remedy, have a conversation with your doctor before starting.

How to get rid of a scar on a spherical surface?

Mix distilled water — a little at time — into two tablespoons of baking soda until it forms a paste. Wet your scar with distilled water and then apply the paste to the wet scar. Hold the paste in place with a warm compress for 15 minutes. Rinse the area and repeat daily.

What is a keloid scar?

Keloid Scars. Keloid scars are the result of aggressive healing and an overproduction of tissue. They are characterized by a raised, thick, puffy appearance. They are typically darker than the surrounding skin. Unlike a hypertrophic scar, keloid scars can grow beyond the injured area.

How to cover a scar with honey?

Honey. Before going to bed, cover your scar with a layer of honey. Wrap the honey-covered scar with a bandage. Leave it on for one full night. In the morning, remove the bandage and wash off the honey with warm water. Make this part of your routine every night. Buy honey now.

How long does it take for a potato scar to dry?

Continue rubbing and replacing for about 20 minutes and then let the scar air-dry for about 10 minutes. Rinse the area with cool water. Repeat this process at least one time each day.

What is atrophic scar?

Atrophic scars are characterized by the loss of tissue. They appear depressed, serrated, or flat against the upper layer of the skin. Often atrophic scars have darker skin pigmentation than other area of your skin. Examples of atrophic scars include acne scars and chickenpox scars.

How to heal scars on skin?

Your doctor may use a handheld, sterile needle-studded roller to puncture the scarred tissue gently. As the skin heals, it naturally produces more collagen and fills up the indentations.

What is the procedure to remove scars called?

Surgical Removal: It is an invasive approach to remove severe scars. The surgical procedure helps in resurfacing scarred tissue and makes them less noticeable. After the scar excision, the doctors suture the skin, which may leave a smaller and less prominent scar than the original one. This is also called punch excision.

What are the characteristics of scars?

Here are the common characteristics of deep scars: 1 Tissue Depth Or Depression: Flat, thin scars have an indentation that extends vertically to the deep dermis layer of skin or subcutaneous tissue. 2 Loss Of Tissue/Skin Volume: These round to oval depressions have sharply demarcated edges and a width of 1.5 to 4 mm. Fibrotic indentations result in shadowing and a pitted appearance. 3 Discolouration Of Skin: Acne may result in post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Some acne scars may vary in colour from pink, tan, skin-coloured to dark brown. 4 Undulating Appearance: Often, these scars have a horizontal orientation with sharp margins or depressed tracks. Skin appears uneven due to the loss of critical rebuilding tissue without collagen.

What color are acne scars?

Some acne scars may vary in colour from pink, tan, skin-coloured to dark brown. Undulating Appearance: Often, these scars have a horizontal orientation with sharp margins or depressed tracks. Skin appears uneven due to the loss of critical rebuilding tissue without collagen.

What is the procedure for deep pitted scars?

However, nowadays, they may suggest them as a combination treatment for deep-pitted scars along with other modalities. MNRF: Micro-needling Radiofrequency or MNRF is a revolutionary dermatological procedure that uses radiofrequency energy to tighten the skin and make depressed scars less noticeable.

Can fillers help with scars?

There is also almost nil downtime associated with this modality. Must Watch: Fillers: Your dermatologist may recommend fillers to treat deep-pitted scars. These fillers fill the scarred tissues and lift them to the level of the surrounding skin.

Do deep pitted scars go away?

No, most deep-pitted scars do not go away on their own or heal with time. However, many advanced procedures are now available to minimise them safely and effectively. Please read the next section to know more about them.

What is the best face cream for scars?

When it comes to treating scars on your face, you want the best quality formula to help restore your natural beauty. X-Scar's Facial Scar Cream with Vitamin E uses both silicone and vitamin E to help reduce the appearance of facial scars as well as surgical scars, C-section scars, cuts, and burns.

What is the best product to use for scars?

Products that contain either medical-grade silicone or centelline are probably your best bet. Over the counter scar gels or creams can be a great place to start for someone who wants to start treating a scar immediately. If you’re into all-natural ingredients, brands like Derma E are also a great place to start.

What is the best ingredient for scar cream?

Silicone is a common ingredient in scar creams, and it works by keeping the affected area hydrated. Keeping skin hydrated helps promote cell growth, and turnover. “Research has shown it to be the most effective ingredient for scar improvement,” says Latanya Benjamin, M.D., a Florida-based pediatric dermatologist.

What is the best treatment for burn scars?

Medical-grade silicone is one of the best non-surgical treatments for burn scars. It’s been used in the treatment of burn scars for more than 30 years. It blends easily, and it should begin improving your scar’s appearance within two months of twice-daily treatments.

What is the best ingredient to reduce scars?

The active ingredients at work here are allicin, which is found in garlic and onion bulbs and helps reduce the appearance of scars; allantoin, which helps condition the skin to reduce the appearance of scars; and vitamin B5, which works as a moisturizing skin softener.

Does silicone help with stretch marks?

First Look. "Suitable for stretch marks and surgery and facial scars, its silicone formula works to hydrate and fade the mark over time.". "The budget-friendly option is easily absorbed into the skin and made with vitamin E, which helps provide a more even skin tone. ".

Can scar cream be used on face?

Targeted Anatomy. Dr. Benjamin notes that most scar creams are designed to work for your face and body. If you have particularly sensitive skin , you may want to look for a scar cream that specifically lists that it’s made to be used on the face. Otherwise, it’s mainly about preference.

Scar types

Before purchasing a scar removal cream, it’s important to understand that not all scars will respond to this type of product. Severe scars require professional treatment from a dermatologist or plastic surgeon. However, there are some scars can see significant improvement with the use of a scar removal cream.

Silicone vs. water-based formulas

Scar removal creams are usually silicone-based or water-based. Silicone-based cream tends to be more effective, as silicone helps limit the collagen overgrowth that causes skin texture issues. It does so by sitting on top of the skin and forming a protective barrier that doesn’t allow moisture to leave the skin.

Ingredients

Silicone: As previously mentioned, silicone can be very effective. The higher up it is on the ingredients list, the better. But the ingredients list usually won’t say “silicone.” Look for medical-grade silicones like dimethicone, polymerized siloxanes, cyclopentasiloxane, or dimethicone or vinyl dimethicone crosspolymer.

Other features

Cream consistency is an important feature to consider when you’re looking for an effective formula. If a cream is too thin or watery, it won’t adhere to the skin well enough to create a protective barrier. If it’s too thick and rich, it may prevent the skin from breathing. A lightweight cream or gel formula is your best bet to help remove scars.

Scar removal cream prices

The most affordable scar removal creams usually contain just one targeted ingredient for scar removal. These creams generally cost between $10 and $20 and work best for newer scars.

Tips

Before applying a scar removal cream, wash the skin where the scar is located. Allow the area to dry completely before spreading the cream over your scar.

Other products we considered

There are a wide variety of scar removal creams on the market, so you should be able to find a formula that suits your skin issues. The Primal Soapworks Scar Removal Cream is an ideal option if you’re dealing with older scars. It’s particularly effective for post-acne scarring and can be used on the face, neck, chest, back, legs, and arms.

How Do Facials Help Acne Scars?

Facials can, “benefit the skin with a deep cleanse, professional exfoliation, proper extractions, and targeted ingredients used to combat specific concerns, like acne scars” says Hailey Cochran, esthetician at Beverly Hills-based spa, Facile.

The Best Facials For Acne Scars

Chemical peels are great for fine lines, dryness, and safe for many types of skin, but are particularly adept at minimizing acne scars. They are exfoliating treatments that use natural acids at different strengths to remove the top-most layer of dead skin cells.

Are These Facials Safe For Everyone?

Although facials can be beneficial for all skin types, the experts advise that there are a few exceptions. “If you have darker skin tone, most facials are safe and beneficial,” says Dawidowicz.

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