Understanding the Different Types of Scars
Scars can come in a variety of shapes, sizes and types. Before you can consider how to reduce scars, it’s important to understand what type of scar you have. The three main types of scars are: Hypertrophic scars, which are raised, discolored patches of skin; Keloid scars, which are raised and thicker than hypertrophic scars; and Atrophic scars, which are depressed or “sunken in” patches of skin. Knowing what type of scar you have can help you determine the best course of action for reducing it.
Moisturizing with Natural Oils
Natural oils help to encourage skin cell regeneration, which can help reduce the appearance of scars. Some of the best oils for reducing scars include jojoba oil, lavender oil, rosehip oil, and tea tree oil. To use these oils, simply massage a few drops into the scarred area twice a day. Moisturizing with natural oils should be done in combination with other scar reducing techniques, as the results may not be drastic.
Using Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that can help to improve the appearance of scars. Vitamin E oil can be applied directly to the scarred area, or it can be taken orally in capsule form. For topical application, simply break open a vitamin E capsule and massage the oil into the scarred area twice a day. Vitamin E oil can also be found in many skin care products such as lotions and creams.
Using Aloe Vera
Aloe vera has been used for centuries to treat a variety of skin conditions, including scars. Aloe vera gel can be found in many health food stores, or you can purchase an aloe vera plant and break off a leaf to get the gel. Simply massage the gel into the scarred area twice a day to help reduce the appearance of the scar. Aloe vera can also be used in combination with natural oils or vitamin E oil for added benefits.
Using Exfoliation
Exfoliation is a great way to reduce the appearance of scars. By gently exfoliating the scarred area, you can help speed up the skin’s natural healing process. You can use a gentle scrub or loofah to exfoliate the area, or you can purchase a specially formulated exfoliant. Exfoliating should be done twice a week for best results.
Using Over-the-Counter Scar Reducing Creams
There are a variety of over-the-counter scar reducing creams available on the market today. These creams often contain ingredients such as vitamin E, aloe vera, glycolic acid, and silicone. Before using any scar reducing cream, it’s important to read the product’s label and follow the directions carefully. Most scar reducing creams must be used consistently over a period of several weeks to achieve the desired results.
Using Laser Therapy
Laser therapy is one of the most effective treatments for reducing the appearance of scars. During this procedure, a specialized laser is used to break down the scar tissue and promote collagen production. This helps to reduce the size and color of the scar. Laser therapy is usually done in a series of treatments and can be quite expensive, but the results can be quite dramatic.
Considering Surgery
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to reduce the appearance of a scar. Surgery can involve the removal of the scar tissue or the use of skin grafts to replace the scarred area. Surgery is usually considered a last resort, as it can be quite expensive and carries a certain degree of risk.
Conclusion
Reducing the appearance of scars can be a long and difficult process, but with the right techniques and products, it is possible to reduce their appearance. Natural oils, vitamin E, aloe vera, exfoliation, over-the-counter creams, laser therapy, and surgery are all viable options for reducing the appearance of scars. However, it is important to remember that results may vary depending on the type of scar and the chosen method of treatment.