Scars

Scars are areas of fibrous tissue that replace normal skin after injury or surgery. They form as part of the wound-healing process, in which collagen is deposited to close a wound and then remodeled over time. Scars differ from surrounding skin in texture, color, and sometimes function, and can result from a wide range of events, including cuts, burns, surgical incisions, acne, infections, and inflammatory skin diseases.

The healing process involves inflammatory, proliferative, and remodeling phases. Initially, new tissue is formed and redness and swelling may occur. Over weeks to months, collagen is reorganized and scar tissue becomes less noticeable. Some scars remain raised or enlarging; these are called hypertrophic scars (raised but confined to the wound) or keloids (raised and extending beyond the original wound). Atrophic scars are depressed or pitted, often seen after severe acne or chickenpox. Contracture scars, common after burns, can cause skin tightening and restricted movement.

Appearance varies by location and skin type. Scar tissue commonly lacks hair follicles and sweat glands in the affected area, and pigment changes can produce lighter or darker patches.

Management aims to improve appearance or function. Treatments include silicone gel sheets or ointments, pressure therapy for burns, intralesional corticosteroid injections, laser therapy, dermal fillers for depressions, microneedling, and, in selected cases, surgical revision. The choice of treatment depends on scar type, size, location, and patient factors. Results vary, and some scars never fully disappear.

Prevention focuses on proper wound care and sun protection to minimize pigmentation changes. Avoiding trauma to healing skin and not picking at wounds can reduce scarring. Most scars persist, but many fade over time and with treatment.