Unless you’ve been wrapped in cotton wool all your life, you’ve probably got a scar or two….or many. Scarring is the body’s natural wound healing response but many people agree that they would like to improve the appearance of their scars.
We discuss 7 types of scars and the best treatment options for them. We explain why results from topical treatments are often disappointing and why more and more people are turning to cosmetic device treatments for their scarring.
Types of scars
The severity and appearance of scars varies depending on a range of factors such as; size and depth of the wound or incision, location and direction on the body, age, medications, skin tone and blood supply to the area.
Acne scars
Acne is notorious for leaving scars on the skin due to the bacteria and inflammation it causes. As the body heals the infection, scars form. Scarring that results from acne can be classified into icepick, rolling or boxcar type scars. Due to the irregular shape of acne scars, a device treatment for acne scarring that can get deep into the skin, into the dermis and flow around the scar to remodel the scar tissue will give maximum results.
Stretch marks
Although referred to as “marks”, stretch marks are actually scars in the skin due to it being stretched too fast or passing its point of elasticity. Stretch marks start as purple or reddish lines on the skin and fade to a silvery white over time. Oils are a popular treatment option, however they do little more than moisturise the skin. Skin needling and radio frequency treatment for stretch marks can be used to improve the appearance of these scars.
Surgical scars
Due to the invasive nature of surgery, surgical scars are difficult to avoid. The type and extent of surgery will impact scarring.
Contracture scars
Contracture scars are the result of a burn, when the skin tightens during recovery. These types of scars can affect movement and flexibility.
Atrophic scars
Depressed or flat scars are referred to atrophic scars. Depressed scars result from the body producing too little collagen during healing.
Hypertrophic scars
Raised scars are due to the body over-producing collagen during the healing phase. This type of scar often develops following infections or wounds.
Keloid scars
Keloid scars are raised, thick scar that occurs following an aggressive healing phase. The body’s healing response has gone into over-drive with collagen production. Some people are more prone to these types of scars.
Cosmetic Device Treatments for Scarring
Oils, lotions, creams and serums are limited by their inability to deeply penetrate the skin. Scars can sometimes be superficial, however they often form deep in the epidermis and in the dermis, therefore treatments that can penetrate into the second layer of the skin are needed to remodel the scar tissue. Cosmetic treatments that can be considered for scar treatment are as follows:
Skin Needling
For superficial or shallow scars, skin needling treatment can be considered. Our skin needling treatment has been specifically designed to smooth scars, reduce the appearance of fine to deep wrinkles and minimise stretch marks.
Laser
Laser energy needs to travel in straight line, meaning that fractional lasers exert most of their energy (10-70%) on the epidermis. Fractional lasers are therefore less suitable for treating deep scars as the energy loss occurs before the energy gets to where it is needed.
SublativeTM Radio Frequency
Sublative technology is the leading cosmetic device solution for scarring, in particular acne scars and stretch marks, as the energy can reach the dermis where it is needed and can flow around the irregular shape of the scar for maximum benefit. Sublative treatment works to remove scarring by remodelling the scar tissue and stimulating the production of new collagen and elastin to smooth out the skin, strengthening it from the inside out.
Sublative treatment not only treats scarring, it also improves texture, tone, lines and wrinkles, and skin laxity. There is no recovery period with Sublative treatment as the energy is focused underneath the skin, leaving the epidermis intact. It is safe to use on all skin types. Depending on the type and severity of your scars, usually 3 to 5 treatments spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart are needed.
To view treatment pricing, simply click on the button below:
Next Step – Free Consultation
At Feel Good Laser & Skin Clinic we specialise in the most advanced cosmetic treatments for scarring. We offer a free consultation where we can assess your skin and scars, explain our technology and answer any questions you have. You can click on the button below to book a free consultation online now. Alternatively, you can call our experienced and friendly team on 1300 896 834.
