Scars

Scars can mar the appearance of your skin and alter your self-confidence. The skilled dermatologists at Adult & Pediatric Dermatology Specialists offer treatments that can help residents of Trumbull, Westport, and Derby, Connecticut. To explore your options in greater detail, call to book a visit or schedule an appointment online at your earliest convenience.  

How do scars develop?

Scars form when your body works to repair damaged skin. Almost immediately after a cut or other injury, your body reacts by creating new collagen cells to “knit” together the edges of the break in your skin. 

While scarring is a powerful reminder of your body’s innate healing ability, the final product can be unsightly and make it hard to feel confident about the appearance of your skin. New scars are usually red or pink in color, but over time, scar tissue usually appears lighter than the color of fair skin and darker than the color of highly pigmented skin. 

What are the different types of scars?

Some scars appear as a thin line of tissue that sits at the same level as the surrounding skin. Simple lacerations, deep scratches, and shallow cuts often create this form of scarring. 

Depressed scars sit below the surface of the surrounding skin. Acne scarring is a common example and can appear as pitted or unevenly textured skin. 

Keloid scars are large areas of scar tissue that are raised above the surface of your skin. They often extend beyond the boundaries of the original wound. The texture can be firm and rubbery or softer. 

Stretch marks are a type of scarring that develops when weight gain or pregnancy causes your skin to stretch. They often appear as lines of depressed scarring and are common on the abdomen, upper thighs, and upper arms. 

What are some treatment options for scars?

Your treatment plan depends on the type of scar you have, the size of the scar, and the extent of skin alteration. The process always begins with a consultation and skin assessment by your dermatologist. 

Chemical peels can reduce the appearance of mild scarring by removing the outermost layers of skin. Deeper peels also prompt your body to create new tissue growth that plumps skin, reducing the appearance of scarring. 

Laser treatments are also a great option for reducing the appearance of scarring. Lasers trigger a powerful healing reaction that boosts collagen and elastin production, helping to tighten skin and smooth out depressed scarring. 

Microdermabrasion and microneedling are options that improve scarring areas by tightening and plumping your skin. 

Some keloid scars are best treated through a minor surgical excision. Cutting away abnormal scar tissue is a good option when less invasive treatments like wound care, laser therapy, and freezing the tissue fails to yield the desired results. 

When you’re ready to explore treatments for scar tissue, booking a visit at Adult & Pediatric Dermatology Specialists is fast and easy online or over the phone.