Scar Treatment

Scars develop as part of the body’s healing process in response to injury, infection, burns, or inflammation. They can appear as flat, depressed, raised, hyperpigmented, hypopigmented, or tightened skin and form anywhere on the body. Most scars result from damage to the underlying skin tissue, which impairs collagen fiber formation during healing. While scarring is a natural process, the appearance of scars can negatively impact self-esteem and confidence. Fortunately, Dr. Michele Green in New York City is an expert in improving the appearance of various types of scars. Dr. Green specializes in treating a wide range of scars, including acne scars, stretch marks, surgical scars, keloids, and hypertrophic scars.

Dr. Green offers a wide range of scar treatments in her private dermatology office in NYC. Laser skin resurfacing options, including Fraxel, eMatrix, and Clear + Brilliant, are among the most effective treatments for atrophic acne scars and chickenpox scars. Laser therapy, such as the VBeam laser, is considered the gold standard for reducing redness associated with surgical scars, stretch marks, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and keloids. Dermal fillers like Restylane, Voluma, and Sculptra can be combined with subcision to stimulate new collagen production and restore lost volume. Other common scar treatment options include microneedling, chemical peels, Botox, and intralesional cortisone injections. These non-invasive procedures involve little to no downtime or side effects and yield consistently impressive results. Dr. Green may also recommend topical silicone gel sheets or creams between treatments to enhance cosmetic outcomes. Whether your scars are depressed or raised, or whether they result from surgery or acne breakouts, Dr. Green is here to help.

Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned, board-certified dermatologist with over two and a half decades of experience delivering top-notch non-invasive cosmetic procedures, including scar treatments, to some of the world’s most discerning individuals. She is consistently recognized by Super Doctors, Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, and The New York Times as one of New York’s best dermatologists for her dedication to her patients and expertise. Dr. Green employs a holistic approach to cosmetic dermatology, treating patients with a “less-is-more” philosophy to achieve natural, youthful-looking results that endure. When you consult with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office on Manhattan’s Upper East Side about scar revision, she will collaborate with you to develop a customized scar treatment plan that best suits your skin type, the nature of the scar, and your overall aesthetic goals.

What is a scar?

A scar is a mark that forms after a burn, surgery, acne breakout, injury, or infection. Scars can occur on any part of the body, and their appearance depends mainly on the origin of the injury or lesion, how the body heals, and the wound’s formation. Some scars appear depressed, while others may be raised and can even grow larger than the original injury. If the injury extends beyond the top layer of skin, the resulting scar tissue is often thicker than normal skin. For individuals with lighter skin tones, scars typically appear pink or red and may fade over time or darken or lighten to match their natural skin color. Conversely, for those with darker skin, scars often appear as dark marks on the skin’s surface. Regardless of scar type, Dr. Green offers a wide range of non-surgical scar treatments to reduce their appearance and help you achieve clear, smooth, radiant skin.

Where does scar tissue come from?

Scar tissue forms when damaged skin, such as that from an infection, injury, or burn, undergoes the natural healing process. Part of this process involves producing collagen, a naturally occurring skin protein. Collagen is the most abundant skin protein, providing structural support, a firm foundation, and a smooth texture. During healing, collagen fibers form tissues that knit the skin back together to repair the wound. The resulting tissue helps protect the damaged area from infection, and it is this tissue that can lead to the appearance of a scar. When excess collagen is produced, the result is a keloid or hypertrophic scar. If insufficient collagen is produced, the result is an atrophic or depressed scar. The shape, size, and texture of a scar depend mainly on the cause of the wound, age, genetics, and skin type.

What are the different types of scars?

Various factors, including the injury’s origin, genetics, and ethnicity, can influence scar formation.

• Atrophic Scars – Atrophic scars are characterized by indentations or sunken patches of skin that form when collagen production is insufficient during the skin’s healing process. These scars often result from inflammatory acne breakouts or lesions associated with illnesses such as chickenpox. The three types of atrophic scars are ice-pick, boxcar, and rolling scars. Ice-pick scars are narrow, V-shaped indentations that penetrate deep into the skin. Boxcar scars are wide, round- or oval-shaped indentations with well-defined edges. Rolling scars are shallow, wavy indentations in the skin. Atrophic scars may become more visible with age as the natural loss of collagen further accentuates the skin’s indentations.
• Hypertrophic Scars — Hypertrophic scars are raised areas caused by excessive collagen production during natural healing. While they can fade over time, they will never truly flatten. They will not grow beyond the area of the initial injury.
• Keloid Scars — Keloid scars are raised scars that differ from hypertrophic scars in that they extend beyond the boundaries of the original injury during and after the healing process. Keloids may be flesh-colored, erythematous, or hyperpigmented. Keloid development is often genetic, as patients with red hair and those of African, Hispanic, or Asian heritage are more likely to develop keloids. Keloids do not resolve on their own or regress over time and require treatment to shrink and flatten.
• Contracture Scars – Contracture scars are characterized by tight, contracted skin that makes movement of the affected area more difficult. They typically form after a large area of skin is damaged, such as with a burn, and can be a hindrance if the scar formation happens over a joint or if the scar tissue affects a muscle or nerve.
• Flat Scars – Flat scars are characterized by discoloration of the skin’s surface. These scars may be slightly raised during the early stages of wound healing, but will flatten over time. The scar may begin as pink or red and then become either hypopigmented (lighter) or hyperpigmented (darker) than the surrounding skin.
• Stretch Marks – Stretch marks appear on the skin’s surface when the skin expands or shrinks rapidly over a short period, a process that can occur frequently during pregnancy and with rapid weight gain or loss. Rapid stretching can damage underlying tissue, leading to scarring. Initially, stretch marks often appear pink or red but fade to a silvery color over time.

Will my scars ever go away?

Most scars do not resolve on their own. Scars form as a result of an improper wound-healing process, in which too little collagen leads to a depressed scar or too much collagen results in a hypertrophic or keloid scar. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation can also occur, in which the skin at the injury site appears red or brown. This hyperpigmentation can resolve on its own, though it may take several months. Unfortunately, depressed or raised scars typically do not go away on their own. However, various non-invasive treatment options can help minimize the appearance of scars, resulting in a smoother, healthier, and clearer complexion. The most effective way to create a scar treatment plan is to consult an experienced healthcare professional, such as board-certified dermatologist Dr. Green in New York City. Dr. Green has over 25 years of experience providing scar treatments to men and women worldwide and will design a treatment protocol to help you look and feel your best.

How can I remove my scars?

Some of the most popular non-invasive treatment options in Dr. Green’s private NYC dermatology office include laser skin resurfacing, chemical peels, microneedling, dermal fillers, Botox, steroid injections, and topical treatments such as silicone gel sheets. Some dermatologists may also offer cryotherapy, a process that freezes off scar tissue with liquid nitrogen. However, treatment options like cryotherapy are outdated because they are less effective and carry a higher risk of side effects. Dr. Green offers safe, effective, and non-invasive scar treatment options that leave you with clear, radiant skin that lasts.

When you consult with Dr. Green, she will assess your skin condition, review your medical history, and review any previous cosmetic scar treatments you may have had. Depending on her evaluation, the location and type of scar, and your skin tone and type, Dr. Green will personalize a scar treatment plan that best suits your unique needs and aesthetic goals.

Non-invasive procedures for scar treatment

VBeam laser treatment

The VBeam laser is considered the gold standard for reducing visible redness, including that associated with acne scars, surgical scars, stretch marks, keloids, burn scars, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. This pulsed-dye laser operates at 595 nm, targeting red pigmentation in the skin while leaving surrounding tissue unaffected. Because it targets redness, VBeam is also an excellent treatment option for correcting the appearance of broken blood vessels, rosacea flare-ups, and other pigmented lesions. The VBeam involves no downtime, allowing patients to resume normal daily activities immediately after the procedure. Most patients report that the VBeam laser treatment is painless, likening the sensation to a rubber band snapping against the skin. It is also equipped with a Dynamic Cooling Device that emits a burst of cool air before each laser pulse to enhance patient comfort during the procedure. Most patients require an initial series of 4-6 VBeam laser treatments to achieve their ideal results.

Fraxel laser treatment for scars

Dr. Green often refers to the Fraxel laser treatment as the “magic eraser” for its ability to target a wide range of skin conditions, including the appearance of scars. The Fraxel operates on two distinct wavelengths of light, 1550 nm and 1927 nm, to improve skin texture and tone, tailored to the patient’s needs and goals. At 1550 nm, Fraxel creates controlled, precise micro-injuries in the dermis to stimulate new collagen production, resulting over time in a smoother, firmer skin texture and a reduced appearance of depressed scars. As a non-ablative fractional laser treatment, Fraxel leaves the outermost layer of the skin intact, significantly reducing downtime. Patients typically experience mild redness or swelling for 48 hours after treatment. Most patients require 3 to 5 Fraxel laser treatment sessions to achieve ideal results in scar revision, with each session approximately 1 month apart.

eMatrix laser treatment for scars

The eMatrix laser is widely used to reduce the visibility of atrophic acne scars, stretch marks, fine lines, wrinkles, and enlarged pores. It delivers radiofrequency energy to the dermis, triggering a wound-healing response and stimulating new collagen production. Downtime is minimal, and patients typically experience mild redness and swelling for 2 days after treatment. The eMatrix is safe for individuals of all skin types and tones, including darker tones, which are often more susceptible to unwanted side effects from other laser treatments. Most patients require a short series of 4-6 eMatrix treatments for optimal scar revision, with each session spaced approximately four weeks apart.

Botox injections for surgical scars

Botox is a neuromodulator that inhibits nerve signaling when injected into targeted muscles. It is one of the most popular non-invasive cosmetic treatments for facial rejuvenation, commonly used to reduce fine lines on the forehead, between the eyebrows (glabella), and around the eyes (crow’s feet). One lesser-known yet highly effective application of Botox is reducing the appearance of scars after cosmetic facial surgery. Researchers found that patients who received Botox had smaller, flatter surgical scars than those who did not. They postulate that this effect is due to Botox’s ability to limit movement around the wound as it heals, which may help prevent the scar from becoming overly raised and reduce discoloration. The cosmetic effects of Botox typically last about four months, and many patients opt for regular maintenance treatments on a quarterly basis. It is important to receive Botox injections from a board-certified expert, such as Dr. Michele Green in NYC, to ensure safe and effective results. Dr. Green was among the first dermatologists in New York to offer cosmetic Botox injections, is an Allergan Platinum injector, and provides what have been described as the ‘best Botox injections’ in the NYC area.

Dermal fillers to treat atrophic scars

Dermal fillers are cosmetic injectables designed to enhance facial contours, augment specific features, replace lost volume, and create a more youthful appearance. They can be an incredibly effective tool in scar revision, particularly for restoring volume to atrophic scars. Subcision is commonly performed in conjunction with filler treatment for scar revision, using a fine needle to break up scar tissue and stimulate collagen production. Performing subcision with filler injections provides immediate, long-lasting rejuvenation. Dr. Green employs a wide variety of dermal fillers at her private dermatology office in NYC.

During your consultation, Dr. Green will determine the appropriate filler for your scar treatment based on the types of scars present. Dr. Green frequently uses hyaluronic acid fillers such as Restylane or Juvederm to correct atrophic scars. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance that binds to water in the skin, replenishing lost volume. The cosmetic effects of hyaluronic acid fillers are immediate and typically last 6-18 months, depending on the amount and type of filler used and the patient’s metabolism. Patients with facial acne scarring often notice diffuse volume loss across the face, including the cheeks and temples. For these patients, Dr. Green may use Sculptra, a unique filler made of poly-L-lactic acid that stimulates gradual collagen production in the treatment area. Most patients require at least three Sculptra treatment sessions to achieve their ideal results, after which results can last up to two years.

Restylane – 2 syringes for scar treatment

TCA peels

A chemical peel is a non-invasive skin-resurfacing treatment that accelerates skin cell turnover and increases collagen production, revealing a smoother, brighter complexion with more even texture and tone. Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) peels are commonly used in Dr. Green’s dermatology office to treat active acne, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and mild atrophic scars, such as depressed acne scars. During a TCA peel, the solution is applied topically to the skin’s surface. It reacts with the skin’s surface to exfoliate the outer layer, removing pigmented, dead skin cells and bringing bright, healthy skin cells to the surface. Most patients require a series of chemical peel treatments to achieve their ideal results. TCA peels are typically not suited for patients with Fitzpatrick type 3 or darker skin, as there is a greater risk of unwanted hyperpigmentation as a side effect.

Mesopeels

Mesopeels are specially formulated peels designed to address hyperpigmentation and dark marks. They contain skin-lightening agents, such as azelaic acid and tranexamic acid, to fade unwanted pigmentation and reduce melanocyte activity. These gentle peels can be used on many areas of the body, including sensitive areas like the axilla, inner thighs, and groin. Mesopeels are safe and effective for all skin tones, including darker tones, making them an excellent treatment option for reducing flat, pigmented scars. Patients typically undergo four to six treatment sessions to achieve the best cosmetic results.

Microneedling

Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, is a cosmetic treatment that can improve skin texture and tone. The procedure delivers controlled trauma to the skin’s surface using a handheld device with tiny, sterile microneedles. These microneedles penetrate the epidermis, the skin’s outermost layer, triggering the skin’s natural healing process to increase cell turnover and stimulate new collagen production. In addition to improving the appearance of fine lines, enlarged pores, uneven skin tone, and dullness, microneedling can be an excellent treatment for depressed or atrophic scars. Most patients require an initial series of 4-6 sessions, spaced about one month apart, to replenish collagen levels and improve the appearance of acne scars.

The effects of microneedling can be further enhanced by pairing it with specialized topical serums. Serums applied during a microneedling procedure enter the microchannels created, allowing for maximum absorption and better results. Patients with post-inflammatory pigmentation from scarring can pair microneedling with a depigmentation serum to fade dark marks. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) can also be incorporated into the procedure to enhance treatment benefits. PRP is a serum derived from a sample of the patient’s blood, which is spun in a centrifuge to separate it from the red blood cells. It contains an abundance of natural growth factors and proteins involved in the healing process, promotes circulation, stimulates collagen growth, and accelerates skin regeneration.

Vivace RF Microneedling

Vivace RF is an innovative procedure that combines the benefits of microneedling and radiofrequency (RF) for maximum skin rejuvenation. The device uses tiny, surgical-grade needles to stimulate collagen production in the epidermis while simultaneously delivering RF energy deep into the dermis to increase collagen levels. Vivace RF is ideal for improving the appearance of acne scars, fine lines, facial wrinkles, pore size, stretch marks, and hyperpigmentation. The procedure has no downtime, and the treatment is safe for all skin types and tones. Dr. Green recommends a series of at least 3 treatments for the best results.

Intralesional corticosteroid injections for keloid scars

Intralesional corticosteroid injections are a popular in-office treatment for reducing the appearance of hypertrophic or keloid scars. Corticosteroids are synthetic drugs similar to the steroid hormones naturally present in the body. When injected directly into a raised scar, corticosteroids help flatten and reduce the scar’s size and thickness, with no side effects or downtime. Patients often need multiple treatments, spaced three to four weeks apart, to achieve the best results.

Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is a cosmetic procedure that gently exfoliates the skin’s top layer, stimulating collagen production and reducing the appearance of acne scars, uneven texture, and pigmentation. The procedure uses either tiny crystals or a diamond-tipped handpiece to abrade the epidermis. Microdermabrasion requires no downtime and is quick and painless. Patients often need multiple treatments to reduce the appearance of their acne scars.

Dermabrasion

Dermabrasion is a treatment that resurfaces the skin using a rapidly rotating device to remove the top layer. This process triggers the body’s natural wound-healing response, including the production of new collagen. Dermabrasion is an effective treatment for depressed acne scars, pox marks, stretch marks, and surgical scars. Recovery time after the procedure is relatively long compared with many other non-invasive scar-revision treatments, and patients should plan to take at least 2 weeks off work to heal completely. Patients should avoid sun exposure and cleanse and dress their skin as instructed to prevent potential side effects. Dermabrasion is recommended for patients with lighter skin tones, as those with darker skin tones are more susceptible to unwanted side effects, such as skin discoloration or scarring, from the procedure. Patients with active acne or other inflammatory skin conditions, such as a rash, cold sore, or blister, should not undergo dermabrasion until their symptoms have resolved to avoid exacerbating their condition or risking infection.

Surgical scar revision

Scar revision surgery may be the best treatment option for patients with a more significant scar. Specifically, surgical scar revision can be effective for patients with a significant contracture or burn scar in which the epidermis is damaged or missing. For these scars, surgeons often use a skin graft to replace the missing skin. A skin flap may also be used if the area of missing skin has damaged underlying tissue, as skin flaps retain their original blood supply. A Z-plasty is a skin flap technique used in scar revision in which two triangular flaps are transposed onto a scar to improve its function and appearance. Patients with contracture scars may also benefit from tissue expansion. This newer technique gradually expands the skin and underlying tissues over several weeks or months, reducing tension and restoring movement in the area.

Ideally, surgical treatment will result in a less prominent scar. However, any surgical procedure carries significant risks of side effects and infection. It is essential to remember that surgery of any kind will also leave a scar, and you will be trading one spot for another. Additionally, using surgical scar revision to treat keloid scars may also result in the formation of new keloids at the incision site. When considering cosmetic surgery for scar revision, it is essential to consult a trusted, board-certified plastic surgeon.

What to use to get rid of scars

Topical treatments are excellent for preventing scar formation after an injury or surgical procedure and for minimizing the appearance of scars. Silicone gel sheets are best used on a recent wound to help prevent raised scars and reduce the likelihood of redness, swelling, itching, or stiffness in new scars. Researchers have found that although silicone ointment is also available, silicone gel sheets are more effective at preventing scarring. These sheets should be applied to the wound after it closes, for 12 to 22 hours daily, for up to 3 months.

Protecting the skin from sun exposure is important for fading scars as quickly as possible, as harmful UV rays can damage collagen fibers, worsening their appearance. UV rays can also trigger melanocytes to produce more melanin, worsening discoloration. Dr. Green recommends wearing sun-protective clothing, covering the scar, and using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 50 or higher. Broad-spectrum indicates that it offers protection against both UVA and UVB rays. The Hydrating SPF 50 from MGSKINLABs is an oil-free, broad-spectrum sunscreen that contains zinc oxide to protect the skin from the sun, as well as hyaluronic acid and lactic acid to hydrate and soften the skin.

Retinol and retinoids are excellent additions to a skincare regimen to improve the appearance of atrophic and flat scars. These products, derived from vitamin A, revitalize the skin by increasing skin cell turnover and stimulating new collagen production. The Essential Antioxidant Infusion from Dr. Green’s proprietary skincare line, MGSKINLABs, contains vitamin A along with other essential vitamins and nutrients to soften skin texture and reduce the appearance of scarring. A board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Green can prescribe a prescription-strength retinoid, such as Retin-A or tretinoin, for the treatment of more severe scarring. When using a retinol or retinoid, it is essential to avoid sun exposure and use broad-spectrum sunscreen, as these products can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight.

Skin-lightening agents such as vitamin C, kojic acid, azelaic acid, and tranexamic acid are effective at reducing hyperpigmentation from scars. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that accelerates skin cell renewal, resulting in a more even skin texture and tone. The Vita-C Serum from MGSKINLABs contains potent vitamin C to soften acne scars and brighten the skin. The Skin Brightening Cream from MGSKINLABs is another excellent skin-lightening cream that contains kojic acid and fruit extracts to reduce pigmentation and discoloration.

Frequently Asked Questions (Faqs) about Scar Treatment

Why does scar tissue form?

Scar tissue forms as a result of improper wound healing after skin damage. During the natural wound-healing process, collagen is produced to repair the wound and promote proper skin structure and texture. When too little collagen is produced, atrophic or depressed scars form. When too much collagen is produced, hypertrophic or keloid scars form. Contracture scars form due to a combination of excess collagen production and myofibroblast activation, specialized cells that pull wound edges together. With excess collagen, the scar tissue becomes rigid, restricting movement in the area. Stretch marks form when rapid skin stretching due to weight gain or surgery breaks apart collagen and elastin fibers. During wound healing, insufficient collagen is typically produced, resulting in indented lines.

Should you keep a scar covered?

During initial healing, it is essential to keep the scar covered to reduce the risk of infection, protect it from sun damage, and promote faster healing. Silicone gel sheets are an excellent option for scar healing. By protecting the skin, these sheets can deeply hydrate and regulate collagen production, resulting in flatter, smoother skin once the site is fully healed. Silicone gel sheets are especially effective for patients with a history of keloid scarring, as they can help prevent keloid formation. Additionally, patients with a history of keloid scarring can benefit from pressure therapy, using a pressure garment or dressing over the wound to prevent excess collagen production. For best results, patients may need to apply pressure for several months. Pressure therapy is not indicated for facial wounds.

Should scar tissue hurt?

Scar tissue can be painful even after the initial injury or surgery has fully healed. Pain may result from inflammation, compressed nerves, or restricted movement in the area. Patients may also find that scar tissue is itchy rather than painful. Gently stretching or massaging the area around the scar can help reduce discomfort. Properly moisturizing the area can also reduce itching and make the scar tissue more pliable. If scar tissue remains painful despite home remedies, it is best to consult a healthcare professional, who may recommend anti-inflammatory medications or physical therapy.

How long does it take a scar to heal?

Scars can take many months, sometimes up to 18 months, to fully heal and reach their final appearance. During this time, the body gradually produces, remodels, and reorganizes collagen fibers to restore skin structure and texture. The appearance of scars often changes during this period, first appearing dark, raised, or thick, and then gradually flattening and fading in color. Once healed, some scars may remain raised, become depressed, or remain pigmented.

Is a scar permanent?

Scars can be a frustrating reminder of an injury, infection, surgery, or acne breakout, and many patients wonder, “Will scar tissue go away?” Unfortunately, scar tissue is permanent. Scars form when there is irreparable damage to the skin’s underlying tissue. During healing, either too much or too little collagen is produced. Collagen, the skin’s most abundant protein, provides structural support and contributes to a smooth, firm skin texture. If too much collagen is produced, the result is a keloid or hypertrophic scar. When insufficient collagen is produced, the result is an atrophic scar. While scar tissue will not go away, various treatments can reduce its appearance and create a more even texture. The best way to reduce the appearance of scars is to consult an experienced board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green in NYC. Dr. Green has over 25 years of experience providing some of the world’s most discerning individuals with the best non-invasive cosmetic procedures, including scar revision. When you consult with Dr. Green, she will work with you to achieve and maintain a healthy, clear, smooth complexion.

When can I start scar treatment after surgery?

It is generally best to wait at least three months after a surgical procedure before considering scar-reduction treatments. Ensuring the wound is fully closed and healed before starting scar treatments is essential. Following post-surgical instructions carefully is crucial to prevent scar formation. Once the wound is fully healed, Dr. Green can assess the scar and discuss the best treatment options. It is always best to consult an experienced, board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Green, who can determine the type of scar you have, when to start treatment, and which treatments would be safest and most effective.

What is the best scar treatment after surgery?

No single scar treatment is better than another, as each works in different ways to address different types of scars. Laser skin resurfacing treatments like Fraxel and eMatrix are highly effective at stimulating collagen production and reducing the appearance of various types of scars, including surgical scars, depressed acne scars, stretch marks, and burn scars. The Vbeam laser is excellent for patients left with flat, red scars after surgery. Dermal fillers can restore lost volume to the skin caused by depressed and indented scars. Microneedling and chemical peels stimulate collagen production and reduce the appearance of depressed, flat, and pigmented scars. Intralesional cortisone injections are excellent for shrinking and flattening hypertrophic or keloid scars. Often, patients have a combination of scar types and may require multiple treatments to achieve optimal results. When considering scar revision treatment, it’s advisable to consult with a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Michele Green to determine which treatment is best for your specific scars, skin type, and skin tone.

How long does it take for a scar to go away?

The time required to reduce the appearance of your scars depends on your skin type and condition, as well as the severity, location, and types of scars. Most scar treatments are spaced several weeks apart to allow the skin to heal between sessions. Most scar treatments also yield the best results when performed in a series. Thus, it can take six months or more to achieve optimal results. When you consult with Dr. Green, she will establish a personalized treatment plan for your scar revision and work with you to develop a timeline that best suits your needs.

Is Silagen or Mederma the best scar treatment?

Silagen, or silicone gel, works by keeping the scar occluded and hydrated. Clinical studies have shown that Silagen gel can improve pigmentation and soften and flatten hypertrophic scars. Mederma contains allantoin and onion bulb extract to soften and smooth the skin and regulate fibroblast activity to help rebuild the wound. Mederma has been shown to lighten and fade atrophic scars and flat, hyperpigmented, or red scars. Many patients often wonder, “Which scar gel is the best?” The best gel for your scar treatment will depend on the type of scarring. Patients with hypertrophic scars will see better results with Silagen gel, while those with atrophic scars will benefit more from Mederma. When choosing a scar gel, it is best to consult a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Green, who can help you understand which one is best suited to you.

What is the best scar treatment cream?

Many over-the-counter creams can help reduce the appearance of scars. The best scar-removal cream for you will depend on the type of scars you have and your skin condition. If you are unsure what to use to remove scars, it is best to consult a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green.

The best topical creams for depressed or indented scars often contain retinol, a vitamin A derivative that gently exfoliates the skin, stimulates collagen production, and improves skin cell renewal. The Essential Antioxidant Infusion from MGSKINLABS contains retinol along with other essential vitamins to accelerate skin cell turnover and improve the appearance of atrophic or hyperpigmented acne scars.

Patients with hyperpigmented scars can benefit from creams containing skin-lightening agents such as vitamin C, kojic acid, tranexamic acid, azelaic acid, and hydroquinone. MGSKINLABS carries a Vita-C Serum with a high concentration of vitamin C to protect against oxidative stress and free-radical damage, increase cell renewal, and create brighter skin. The Skin Brightening Cream from MGSKINLABS contains a blend of kojic acid and fruit extracts to improve the appearance of dark spots and create a more even skin tone.

Silicone creams can help reduce the size and color of keloid scars. They are available over the counter and do not require a prescription. Silicone products can be applied to old scars and to those that are still healing, as long as the skin has healed over and the wound has closed.

How much do acne scar laser treatments cost?

The cost of scar treatment depends on several factors, including the size and location of the treatment area, the severity and type of the scar, and your provider’s experience. Most patients require a customized combination of treatments to achieve optimal results, which can also influence the overall cost. While treating scars at a MedSpa may be more cost-effective, consulting with a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Green is crucial to ensure the treatment is safe, effective, and tailored to your specific skin type, tone, and scarring. When you consult with Dr. Green regarding non-surgical scar revision, she will physically evaluate your skin, collect a thorough medical and family history, and review any previous scar treatments you may have had. She will then recommend the treatment combination best suited to your specific needs and goals. At that time, the final cost of your scar treatment can be estimated.

Does insurance cover scar treatment?

Typically, scar treatment is considered cosmetic and is not covered by private insurers. However, you may be covered if there is documented evidence of functional impairment related to the scar, such as in a severe burn, and the treatment is expected to improve function. The best way to determine your coverage is to contact your insurance provider.

Do scar treatments work?

Yes, scar treatments are incredibly effective in reducing the appearance of scars and helping restore self-esteem and self-confidence. While scars are permanent on the skin, non-invasive cosmetic procedures like laser resurfacing, VBeam laser, dermal fillers, microneedling, and chemical peels can all help stimulate collagen production and create a more even skin texture and tone. Patients experiencing hypertrophic or keloid scars can benefit from intralesional corticosteroid injections to flatten and shrink raised scars. Targeted skincare products, such as retinol and silicone, can also enhance treatment results when used between sessions. When you consult with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office in NYC’s Upper East Side neighborhood, she will work with you to create a customized scar treatment plan that best suits your types of scars, skin type, and overall aesthetic goals.

How do I get started with scar treatments today?

Scars can result from acne breakouts, burns, injuries, or wounds. The visibility of scarring can undermine confidence, especially when it occurs in prominent areas such as the face. Fortunately, Dr. Green’s private dermatology office offers non-invasive treatments, including resurfacing lasers, dermal fillers, microneedling, chemical peels, and intralesional cortisone injections, to reduce the visibility of scars and improve skin texture. These procedures are preferred for scar treatment because of their safety, effectiveness, and consistently remarkable outcomes with minimal downtime. When considering scar treatment, it is wise to consult with a knowledgeable dermatologist like Dr. Green, who will leverage her expertise to identify the best treatment plan to help you achieve clear, smooth, and radiant skin.

Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned board-certified dermatologist with over two and a half decades of experience providing some of the world’s most discerning individuals with the finest non-invasive cosmetic procedures, including lasers and fillers for scar treatment. She is consistently recognized by Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, The New York Times, and Super Doctors for her dedication to her patients and expertise. When you consult with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office on Manhattan’s Upper East Side for scar revision, she will collaborate with you to develop a customized scar treatment plan that aligns with your needs and goals. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, please contact us online today or call 212-535-3088.