We all know someone who wears their scars like badges of honor (looking at you, Grandpa), and most of us have one or two of our own scars that we like to tell the story about every now and again. But then there are the other unsightly scars that cause us to feel self-conscious. The worst culprits include:

• Keloid scars – Caused by the overproduction of collagen in the healing process, resulting in a raised scar that becomes larger than the wound itself. Often red and darker than the skin around it.

• Hypertrophic scars  - Similar to keloid scars, but usually do not grow beyond the size of the wound.

• Atrophic scars – Pitted scars caused by damage to the collagen, often the result of acne or chickenpox.

• Contracture scars – Usually caused by second- or third-degree burns, these scars cause the skin, muscles, and tendons to become tight.

The good news is that you don’t have to hide behind long-sleeve shirts and heavy-coverage makeup forever. You have a range of scar removal options to choose from, including natural scar remedies, over-the-counter products, and laser scar removal treatments. Of course, which treatment is most effective will depend on the size and type of scar you have, but generally speaking, these are the 8 best ways to get rid of scars, from acne scars to keloid scars and everything in between.

1. Sun protection

One of the best ways to reduce scarring is to take special care during the healing process. Minimizing sun exposure on new scars is especially important, as the fresh scar tissue is vulnerable to sunburn, which can cause inflammation and permanent discoloration.  The same is true for old and new acne scars, so it’s important to include sun protection in whatever steps you take to get rid of your scars.

2. Aloe vera

Aloe vera is an effective natural remedy for scar reduction, especially in the early stages of the scarring process. The plant contains several properties that aid in wound healing and the reduction of scars. It’s high in antioxidants, which promote new cell growth and enhance collagen production. Regular application of aloe vera extract on a fresh scar will help it fade quickly. Aloe vera works best on smaller, newer scars, like recent acne scars, but should never be used on open wounds.

3. Silicone sheeting and silicone gel

Medical grade silicone sheets and gel can significantly help reduce scarring by protecting the scarred tissue from bacteria, increasing the hydration in the upper layers of skin, and regulating growth factors during the healing process. When silicone is applied to a surgical scar daily starting a week or two after the surgery, it can minimize the cosmetic damage of C-section scars, tummy tuck scars, or scars from other surgical procedures. When used regularly, topical silicone products reduce fresh scars as well as older scars, including small hypertrophic and keloid scars. Consistency is key.

4. Cortisone injection

A corticosteroid injection administered directly into a hypertrophic or keloid scar can help break the bonds between collagen fibers and reduce the amount of scar tissue. This essentially shrinks the scar, and the anti-inflammatory properties in the steroid also help reduce swelling, itching and redness.  As many as five injections, spaced four to six weeks apart may be required.

5. Soft tissue fillers

Dermal fillers can be used to treat pitted scars, and the results are immediate.  Though it’s a temporary solution, some fillers do help to stimulate the production of collagen in the treatment area, so the results improve naturally over time. Dermal fillers are best for small soft scars.  

6. Microneedling Treatment

Microneedling is an effective acne scar removal treatment that uses a motorized device to create small wounds at the treatment site. The body responds by producing new collagen and skin cells, reducing acne scars and improving the skin’s appearance and texture.

7. Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion treatments provide a deep exfoliation that stimulates collagen production and minimizes the appearance of surface acne scars. With multiple treatments, however, microdermabrasion has also been found effective for the reduction of some post-surgical and post-traumatic scars.

8. UltraPulse® SCAAR FX™

This breakthrough laser scar removal treatment delivers intense light into the deepest layer of skin to blast scar tissue, breaking up rigid collagen fibers and significantly improving the appearance of scars. The UltraPulse® SCAAR FX™ is a quick, non-invasive scar removal treatment that works on all types of scars, though some may require more than one treatment for optimal results. Most patients see improvement after a single treatment.

Ready to stop worrying about your scars? Siti Med Spa can help.

At Siti Med Spa in San Diego, we offer a range of scar treatments, including soft tissue fillers, microneedling, microdermabrasion, and UltraPulse® SCAAR FX™ laser scar removal.  We treat all kinds of scars, including acne scars, burn scars, surgical scars, lacerations, and more. Come in for a consultation, and we’ll discuss your options and create a treatment plan to improve your skin’s tone and texture by getting rid of unwanted scars. Give us a call at (619) 717-8484 or drop by and see us in Bankers Hill today.