Interesting Facts About Scars | Biodermis.com

If you’re like most people, then you have probably attained a scar or two from injury or surgery during your lifetime. While scars aren’t the most pleasant aspect about the body, they are reminders of a past trauma that we were able to overcome. Most people don’t give their scars a second thought, but there may be a lot of good information about scars that you didn’t know about. For instance, did you know that scars can be treated with products that can be purchased through your doctor or online? In this article, we will go over some of the interesting facts about scars that may just help you avoid excessive scarring down the road.

There are different types of scars

Scars are classified based on how they appear and the way they form. Keloids and hypertrophic scars are considered the most severe because they are marked by an overgrowth of scar tissue. These scars can appear raised, ropey, and purple or red in appearance. Atrophic scars, on the other hand, are caused by acne and are marked by a pitted or sunken appearance. This is because these scars are due to a loss of collagen in the affected area. Contractures are another type of scar that are caused by burn injuries. Contracture scars pull the skin together due to a loss of skin tissue, causing the skin to feel tight. 

Age and genetics affect scar formation

As you get older, skin becomes thinner and wounds take longer to heal. However, old age is also correlated with less scarring. The reasons for this aren’t scientifically clear yet, but it may have to do with a specialized compound secreted in the bloodstream. Along with age, genetics also play a role in scar formation. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) states that people of African, Asian, or Hispanic descent are more likely to develop keloid scars than other ethnicities. Furthermore, if you have a family history of keloids, then you will also be at higher risk for developing them.

Scars can take more than a year to fully heal

After an injury or surgery, scar tissue will continue to heal and change long after the wound has fully healed. In some cases, a scar can take up to 12-18 months before it takes its final form. Usually, scars will start out red or purple and will fade in color over time. The good news is that scar treatment is still effective long after the wound has healed because the scar takes much longer to fully recover.

Scars can be treated

Scars can be treated in a variety of different ways, such as corticosteroid injections, laser therapy, and surgical removal. However, one of the safest and most effective topical solutions is medical-grade silicone gel for scars. Silicone gel is backed by more than 30 years of clinical evidence and is trusted by surgeons and dermatologists around the world. Silicone gel works simply and effectively through the mechanisms of dermal hydration and collagen regulation. Products can be purchased through your physician or online at biodermis.com.