What Are Scar Treatments?
Scar treatments are specialized medical or cosmetic procedures designed to improve the texture, color, and appearance of scars caused by injury, surgery, acne, or skin conditions. Beyond physical marks, scars can impact self-esteem, especially when located on visible areas like the face or hands. Treatments vary based on scar type:
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Atrophic/Depressed Scars: Sunken scars (e.g., acne, chickenpox)
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Hypertrophic/Keloid Scars: Raised, thickened scars from excessive collagen
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Post-Surgical Scars: Linear marks from incisions or stitches
At Shine Dermatology, we use a multi-modal approach:
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Laser Resurfacing: SmartXide Fractional CO2 Laser, PicoWay Laser
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Radiofrequency Microneedling: Sylfirm X
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Intralesional Injections: Triamcinolone
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Subcision: Manual release of fibrous bands
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Collagen Biostimulating Injections
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Chemical Peels: For superficial acne marks
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Topical Silicone Gel & Tape: For scar maintenance and flattening
(Note: We do not offer 5-FU or Erbium laser treatments.)
How Do Scar Treatments Work?
Scar revision relies on scientifically proven methods to remodel collagen, reduce pigmentation, and break down fibrous tissue:
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Ablative Lasers: Remove scarred tissue and promote regeneration (e.g., CO2 Laser)
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Non-Ablative Lasers: Stimulate collagen without damaging surface skin (e.g., PicoWay)
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Microneedling RF: Combines microneedling with energy to lift depressed scars
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Steroid Injections: Flatten keloids by inhibiting fibroblast activity
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Subcision: Breaks fibrotic strands tethering scars to deeper tissue
Treatments are selected based on scar maturity, depth, and skin type.
Key Treatments & Their Applications
Treatment |
Best For |
Benefits |
SmartXide CO2 + Sylfirm X |
Moderate to severe acne scars |
Resurfaces skin and remodels deep collagen |
PicoWay Laser |
Pigmented or post-acne marks |
Minimizes discoloration with minimal downtime |
Intralesional Steroids |
Keloid or hypertrophic scars |
Reduces thickness and discomfort |
Subcision + Fillers |
Rolling or atrophic scars |
Immediate volume and scar lifting |
Chemical Peels |
Superficial acne marks |
Smooths skin and evens tone |
Silicone Gel & Tape |
All scar types |
Supports scar flattening and hydration |
Comprehensive Benefits of Advanced Scar Treatments
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Customised Protocols: Tailored to scar type, depth, and tone
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Minimal Downtime: Options for all lifestyles
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Safe for All Skin Tones: Melanin-safe technology
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Long-Term Results: Collagen continues to remodel months after treatment
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Medical & Cosmetic Integration: Effective on both physical and emotional aspects
When to Consider Scar Treatment
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Early Scars (3–6 months): Silicone gels, PicoWay Laser
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Mature Scars (>1 year): CO2 Laser, Subcision
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Symptomatic Scars: Keloids causing pain or itching
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Cosmetic Concerns: High-visibility areas like face, arms
Recommended Sessions & Recovery Timeline
Treatment |
Sessions |
Recovery |
CO2 Laser + Sylfirm X |
3–5 (6–8 weeks apart) |
5–7 days of redness/peeling |
Intralesional Injections |
3–6 (4–6 weeks apart) |
Mild tenderness (24h) |
Subcision + Fillers |
1–2 |
Bruising/swelling (3–5 days) |
PicoWay Laser |
3–5 |
Mild redness (1–2 days) |
Chemical Peels |
3–6 |
Peeling/flaking (3–4 days) |
Potential Risks & Safety Measures
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Hyperpigmentation: Prevented with sunscreen and post-care
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Hypopigmentation: Minimized by using appropriate laser settings
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Keloid Recurrence: Managed with maintenance steroid injections
Our dermatologists follow strict safety protocols including patch testing, skin type evaluation, and post-treatment care guidance.
FAQs
1. Can old scars be treated?
Yes, though mature scars may need more sessions. Results are still significant with modern techniques.
2. Are scar treatments painful?
Topical numbing is used. Most patients report minimal discomfort.
3. How long until I see results?
Improvement typically begins within 2–3 months and continues for up to 12 months.
4. Are treatments suitable for dark skin?
Yes. We use devices like PicoWay that are safe for darker skin tones.
5. Are the results permanent?
Most results are long-lasting, particularly with collagen-inducing treatments. Keloids may need maintenance.
6. Can I combine treatments?
Yes. Many patients benefit from a combination of laser, subcision, and topical therapies.
7. How should I prepare?
Avoid sun, retinoids, and blood thinners two weeks before treatment.
8. Are fillers safe for acne scars?
Yes. Hyaluronic acid fillers are safe and effective for volume restoration.
9. Will my scars disappear completely?
Total removal is rare, but significant fading (70–90%) is achievable.
10. What post-care is needed?
Sun protection, moisturization, and occasional follow-ups are recommended.
Book a Consultation Today!
Ready to reduce the appearance of scars and restore smooth, healthy skin? Contact Shine Dermatology to begin your personalized scar treatment plan.