Reduce the Appearance of Scars with Advanced Treatments at Q Dermatology + Aesthetics Centre

Achieve smoother skin with advanced scar treatment options at Q Dermatology + Aesthetics C entre. Our dermatologists provide personalized care to improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of scars.

What is Scarring?

A scar is a mark left on the skin after it has healed from an injury, surgery, or other skin trauma. Scars form when the deeper layer of skin (the dermis) is damaged. The body’s natural healing process produces collagen to close the wound, which can result in a visible mark. While scars are a normal part of the healing process, some scars can be more prominent, raised, or discolored, affecting the skin's appearance.

Types of Scarring

Scars vary in appearance depending on the type of injury, location, and healing process. The main types of scars include:

Keloid Scars:

Keloid scars are similar to hypertrophic scars but are larger and extend beyond the original wound. They are caused by an overproduction of collagen and can be raised, thick, and red or dark.

Common Causes: Surgery, acne, ear piercings, and injuries.

Characteristics: Keloids tend to grow larger over time and may cause discomfort or itching.

Contracture Scars:

Contracture scars occur when the skin tightens during the healing process, often after burns or other significant injuries. These scars can restrict movement and cause functional impairments.

Common Causes: Burns, especially deep or large ones.

Characteristics: Tight, often discolored, and may limit mobility in the affected area.

Hypertrophic Scars:

These are raised scars that form when excess collagen is produced during the healing process. They are usually red or pink in color and can be itchy or painful.

Common Causes: Burns, cuts, or surgical wounds.

Characteristics: Hypertrophic scars do not extend beyond the original wound area and may improve in appearance over time.

Atrophic Scars:

Atrophic scars are depressed or sunken scars that form when the skin loses tissue during the healing process. These scars are often seen with conditions like acne, chickenpox, or after skin surgery.

Common Causes: Acne, chickenpox, injuries, or surgical procedures.

Characteristics: These scars appear as pitted or indented areas on the skin.

Causes of Scarring

Scars can form after any type of skin injury or trauma, including:

  • Surgery

  • Burns

  • Acne or other skin conditions

  • Infections

  • Cuts, scrapes, or abrasions

  • Stretch marks (due to rapid skin stretching)

Some people may be more prone to developing visible scars due to genetics, skin type, or healing response.

Signs and Symptoms of Scarring

The appearance of scars can vary depending on the type of scar and how it heals. Common signs and symptoms of scarring include:

  • Redness or discoloration in the early stages of healing.

  • Raised or depressed areas of skin where the tissue has healed differently.

  • Pain or tenderness at the site of the scar, especially with keloid or hypertrophic scars.

  • Itching or tightness, particularly with healing scars.

How are Scars Treated?

While scars can’t be completely removed, there are several treatments that can improve their appearance, reduce pain, and prevent further complications. Treatment depends on the type of scar and its location.

  1. Topical Treatments:

    • Silicone Gel Sheets or Creams: These are commonly used to reduce the appearance of scars, especially hypertrophic and keloid scars. Silicone helps to hydrate the skin and promote collagen production, which can flatten and soften scars.

    • Steroid Creams: For raised scars, particularly hypertrophic and keloid scars, topical steroids can help flatten the scar and reduce inflammation.

    • Retinoids: Topical retinoids (like tretinoin) can help improve the appearance of scars by increasing skin cell turnover and improving skin texture.

  2. Dermal Fillers:

    • Dermal fillers are injected into depressed or atrophic scars to raise the skin to a level similar to the surrounding area. This is commonly used for acne scars.

    • Benefit: Immediate improvement in the appearance of sunken scars.

  3. Microneedling:

    • Microneedling uses tiny needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin, stimulating collagen production and helping to improve the texture and appearance of scars.

    • Benefit: Effective for both hypertrophic and atrophic scars, as it promotes the skin's natural healing process.

  4. Laser Therapy:

    • Fractional Laser: This laser treatment targets deeper layers of the skin, stimulating collagen production and helping to reduce the appearance of scars.

    • CO2 Laser: For more significant scars, such as keloid or hypertrophic scars, CO2 laser therapy can help resurface the skin and reduce scarring.

    • Intense Pulsed Light (IPL): IPL helps treat redness or pigmentation changes in scars, particularly for post-surgical scars.

  5. Surgical Revision: For severe or large scars, surgical revision may be an option. This involves removing the scar tissue and repositioning the wound to heal in a less visible or more cosmetically acceptable way.

    • Benefit: This option is ideal for large or raised scars, especially in visible areas like the face.

  6. Pressure Garments and Silicone Gel: Pressure garments and silicone gel can help manage contracture scars, particularly after burns or major injuries. These can help prevent further tightening of the skin and reduce the appearance of scars.

    • Benefit: Helps in the healing process and reduces scarring after deep burns.

Preventing Scarring

While some scars are unavoidable, you can take steps to minimize scarring:

  • Proper Wound Care: Clean wounds properly and keep them moist with an ointment like petroleum jelly to promote better healing.

  • Avoid Picking or Scratching: Avoid picking at scabs, acne, or healing wounds to prevent infection and excessive scarring.

  • Use Sunscreen: Protect your scar from the sun, as exposure can darken scars and make them more noticeable.

  • Follow Aftercare Instructions: Always follow the aftercare instructions provided by your dermatologist, especially after treatments like surgery, microneedling, or laser therapy.

Why Choose Q Dermatology + Aesthetics Centre?

At Q Dermatology + Aesthetics Centre, our experienced dermatologists specialize in scar treatment and management. Whether you have a recent injury, surgery scar, or long-standing acne scars, we offer personalized treatment options to help improve your skin’s appearance and boost your confidence.

Schedule a Consultation Today

If you’re concerned about scarring or would like to explore treatment options, don’t hesitate to reach out. Early treatment can help reduce the appearance of scars and improve your skin’s health. Call us today at +1 604 359 9632 or click below to request an appointment.

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