The different types of scars

All wounds are not alike, and not all scars. Several factors such as age, local vascularity or general shape can influence the quality of healing, which varies from one person to another. Among the different types of scars, we find:
- The scar called " normal ". Fine, it does not exceed the level of the skin and is rather white.
- The hypertrophic scar is raised, larger than normal. It usually appears after a local infection.
- The keloid scar is the most annoying because the most difficult to treat: an excrescence is formed on the wound healed when the latter produces too much fibrous tissue.
The atrophic or retractile scar is characterized by retraction of the fibrous tissue. In other words, the skin is pulled over the edges of the scar and forms flanges.
- The dark pigmented scar often results from inflammation.
- The achromic scar is very white, it is also seen especially on the dull skins. This is the kind of scar that chicken pox usually leaves.

Ways to fade these scars

If the scar is still red or swollen after 3 months, we can put on (all day) silicone dressings. They maintain hydration, decrease the risk of fibrosis and improve the appearance of the scar. We can keep them for several days and even go in the shower with them. To switch to a heavier treatment, we wait at least between 18 and 24 months.
- The laser helps to reduce the size of a scar but does not make it disappear. Depending on the size of the latter, it can flatten it by grinding the skin. 1 or 2 sessions may be sufficient if the scar is called normal.
- Injections of corticosteroids are classically prescribed in case of keloid scar. The laser can also be an alternative but you have to be careful not to get into it too fast because the keloid scar is stubborn and can come back.
- Radiofrequency Treatment helps stimulate fibroblasts on scar and manufacture epidermal tissue better.
- Pharmacy creams based on oils, vitamins or hyaluronic acid (Bi-Oil type, Avene, La Roche Posay etc.) can also help to reduce a scar. They stimulate cell renewal thanks to trace elements such as zinc and copper. Two applications a day for several weeks visibly improve the appearance of the scars. Side price, it takes on average between 10 and 15 € for a very good cream.
- The surgical act can also be a solution: the surgeon incises the first to make a finer and more beautiful.

Thanks to Dr. Laurence Netter, dermatologist in Paris.