What Are Scars?
A scar is a mark that forms on the skin during the healing process after the skin has been injured. Scars may appear flat, raised, indented, or discoloured. They can range from mild and barely noticeable to thickened and disfiguring.
Common Causes of Scars
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Injuries and wounds such as cuts, abrasions, or burns
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Surgical procedures, including mole removal or cosmetic surgery
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Severe acne, which can lead to deep pitted or nodular scars
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Infections or inflammation that damage the skin
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Skin conditions like chickenpox or eczema in severe cases
Scars can form on any part of the body, but facial scars tend to be of greater concern for most patients due to their visibility.
Types of Scars
Understanding the type of scar is key to selecting the appropriate treatment:
|
Type of Scar |
Characteristics |
|
Acne Scars |
Pitted, boxcar, or rolling scars resulting from inflamed acne |
|
Keloid Scars |
Firm, raised, and extend beyond the original wound site |
|
Hypertrophic Scars |
Thick, raised scars that stay within the boundary of the original injury |
|
Depressed Scars |
Sunken or indented, often due to volume loss in the skin |
|
Post-Surgical Scars |
Vary in appearance, but early treatment improves outcomes |
Frequently Asked Questions
1 Can scars be removed completely?
Scars can be significantly improved in appearance but cannot be completely erased. Early treatment can greatly influence the final outcome.
2 When should I start scar treatment?
The earlier the better—especially for surgical scars or keloids. However, even older scars can benefit from treatment.
3 Are laser treatments safe?
Yes, laser scar treatments are safe when performed by trained dermatologists using clinically approved devices. Side effects are minimal and downtime is usually short.
If you are concerned about the appearance of a scar—whether from acne, surgery, or injury—speak with our dermatologists today. We offer safe and effective scar treatment solutions right here in Singapore.
Find out more about our scar treatments and acne scar treatments here:
