Scars

Scars develop in response to an injury to the deepest layer of skin called the dermis. The wound creates permanent structural changes that alter the appearance of the epidermis, which is the name of the skin’s top layer.

Scars develop in response to an injury to the deepest layer of skin called the dermis. The wound creates permanent structural changes that alter the appearance of the epidermis, which is the name of the skin’s top layer.

What is a Keloid?

You run the risk of developing thick and unsightly scars if you do not attend to the wound promptly and correctly. Doctors refer to these types of scars as keloids. Keloids appear quite differently than normal scars because they are thick, red, bumpy, and typically extend beyond the margins of the original wound. Prompt self-care or medical attention is critical in preventing keloids when you sustain a serious injury. However, genetic factors, the location of the wound, and what caused the wound all play a role as well.

Most Scars Fade with Time

As your wound begins to heal, your body will produce scabs to close the gap in your epidermis. The scabs typically fall off within a few days. You will start to see the formation of a dark scar within several days of receiving the injury. The fibrous tissue of your skin will appear red and purple and feel firm to the touch.

 

The scar becomes lighter and flatter as the months and years go by. Scars never go away entirely, but they may be light enough that neither you nor others notice them at first glance. By the time a year has passed, most scars have faded considerably.

Steps You Can Take to Reduce Scarring at Home

The most obvious way to avoid scars is not to get them in the first place. However, most people have at least a few accidents during their lifetime that produce scars. The way you care for your wound has a big impact on how much of a scar it will leave behind. We recommend the following steps:

  • Clean and cover the wound as soon as the injury happens.
  • Gently rub the wound with a warm washcloth and soap twice a day for the first several days to loosen and remove scabs.
  • Keep the wound moist by applying petroleum jelly or antiseptic ointment.
  • Remove bandages once all scar tissue has fallen off.

Treatment Options for Prominent Scars

Not all scars fade, and their location on your body can make you feel especially self-conscious. A deep scar on your face after a car accident is just one example.

 

Regardless of a scar’s location or prominence, Anne Arundel Dermatology offers several options to minimize its appearance if it makes you feel uncomfortable. These include prescription crème, surgical revision, dermabrasion, chemical peels, injections, and laser treatment. We invite you to request a consultation with us today to learn more about each of these scar treatment options.

Scar Types, Treatment & Definition

Steps You Can Take to Reduce Scarring at Home

The most obvious way to avoid scars is not to get them in the first place. However, most people have at least a few accidents during their lifetime that produce scars. The way you care for your wound has a big impact on how much of a scar it will leave behind. We recommend the following steps:

  • Clean and cover the wound as soon as the injury happens.
  • Gently rub the wound with a warm washcloth and soap twice a day for the first several days to loosen and remove scabs.
  • Keep the wound moist by applying petroleum jelly or antiseptic ointment.
  • Remove bandages once all scar tissue has fallen off.

Treatment Options for Prominent Scars

Not all scars fade, and their location on your body can make you feel especially self-conscious. A deep scar on your face after a car accident is just one example.

Regardless of a scar’s location or prominence, Anne Arundel Dermatology offers several options to minimize its appearance if it makes you feel uncomfortable. These include prescription crème, surgical revision, dermabrasion, chemical peels, injections, and laser treatment. We invite you to request a consultation with us today to learn more about each of these scar treatment options.

Scar Types, Treatment & Definition

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    Chemical Peels

    A chemical peel is a technique used to improve the appearance of the skin on the face, neck or hands. A chemical solution is applied to the skin that causes it to exfoliate and eventually peel off. The new regenerated skin is usually smoother and less wrinkled than the old skin.

    Chemical Peels

    A chemical peel is a technique used to improve the appearance of the skin on the face, neck or hands. A chemical solution is applied to the skin that causes it to exfoliate and eventually peel off. The new regenerated skin is usually smoother and less wrinkled than the old skin.

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