What Causes Scars?
Scars can develop as part of the natural healing process after the skin has been damaged or cut from surgery, stretch marks, burns, injuries, or infections. The skin works to repair itself through the production of a protein called collagen, creating new tissue that fills in any gaps caused by the injury. As the skin heals, collagen fibers build, which often results in a scar.
Why Do Scars Form?
Scars develop in various shapes and sizes depending on how the tissue is damaged. While some are large and noticeable, others can be much smaller. Overall, there are two main types of scars: atrophic scars and hypertrophic scars.
Atrophic Scars
Atrophic scars, or depressed scars, are indented or sunken scars that occur when collagen contracts and heals below the normal layer of the skin tissue. They are often the result of acne or chickenpox and may appear as pitted scars.
Hypertrophic Scars and Keloids
Hypertrophic and keloid scars occur when too much scar tissue and collagen are produced during healing. They are often raised, thick, and red. A keloid scar may also cause discomfort or itching.
Treatment Options: Atrophic Scars
RF Microneedling
Radiofrequency (RF) microneedling creates many tiny wounds in the skin while simultaneously emitting radiofrequency energy. As these injuries heal, collagen and elastin are produced, helping to smooth atrophic scarring.
Fraxel Re:store Dual
Fraxel (Re:store dual) is a non-ablative laser, meaning it heats the deeper layers of the skin without damaging the surrounding skin. It works by creating micro-wounds in the skin, triggering collagen production to restore volume to indented scars for a smoother skin surface.
Treatment Options: Hypertrophic Scars
Vbeam Prima
The Vbeam laser treatment targets small blood vessels in the skin, minimizing scarring that appeared pink or red. This treatment may also help the scar to flatten for a smoother skin texture.
Fraxel Re:pair
As an ablative laser, Fraxel (re:pair) removes the top layer of the skin while also heating the underlying layer. As a more aggressive laser, this option uses a beam of light to vaporize skin columns in the scarred area, stimulating collagen production for smoother and more evenly-toned skin. The laser is often also used to improve the delivery of scar softening medications deeper into the scar.
Schedule a Consultation
If you are seeking treatment for scars of any kind, please contact UnionDerm today to schedule a consultation with one of our board-certified dermatologists. We have three convenient locations: Union Square and Central Park in Manhattan, and The Hamptons in Water Mill, New York.
