Scarring

What causes scarring?

Scarring is a natural part of the healing process after an injury, a burn, or other trauma to the skin like acne or surgery. There are many different types of scars:

• Keloid scars: These scars are the result of an overly aggressive healing process. They extend beyond the original injury and are present for more than 6 months.
• Contracture scars:If your skin has been burned, you may have a contracture scar. These scars tighten skin, which can impair your ability to move.
• Hypertrophic scar:  These are raised, red scars that are similar to keloids but do not go beyond the boundary of the injury, time period being less than 6 months.
• Acne scars: If you’ve had severe acne, you probably have scars. There are many types of acne scars, ranging from deep pits to angular or wavelike in appearance.

What are the treatment options available for scarring?

• Creams, ointments, or gels: These products can be used to treat very superficial scars that are caused by cuts or other injuries or wounds.
• Injections: Steroid injections to treat scars that stick out, such as keloids or hypertrophic scar.
• Lasers: Fraxel laser or Nd: YAG laser with a built-in cryogen cooling spray has been used for acne scarring and stretch mark reduction. These are safe lasers  with minimal side effects.
• Chemical peel: Will help in reducing scars and stretch marks.
• Surgical removal: There are many options to treat deeper scars depending on your particular case. These include skin grafts, excision, and dermabrasion.
• Fillers:  Injectable fillers to fill concave scars.

Dr. Rajshri Ritesh Gachkal
Dermatologist and Cosmetologist
Bahrain Specialist Hospital Clinics, West Riffa
Email: rajshri.gachkal@bsh.com.bh