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How to Effectively Treat Hypertrophic Scars

October 30, 2024

Scars are an important part of the healing process but can be difficult to get rid of. Hypertrophic scars are thick scars that develop after an injury to heal the wound. They remain within the boundaries of the wound and do not spread to the nearby areas. These scars have no hindrance in the functional perspective, but they didn’t look aesthetically good.

Here’s a guide on how to effectively manage and reduce hypertrophic scars using various treatment options.

1. Silicone Gel 

The most effective treatment for the hypertrophic scars is the use of silicon-based products. The silicon helps to make the scars smooth and soft and eventually make them disappear over the passing time. This also helps in reducing itching and discomfort associated with scars. With the help of silicon gel or sheets, you can be sure to reduce the visibility of the scars without any side effects.

2. Pressure Therapy

As hypertrophic scars are raised, if a mild pressure is applied, it may reduce the formation of scars to some extent. This is particularly effective for the larger areas, like after burns. There are custom-made compression garments that are used to reduce the formation of the scars.

3. Steroid Injections 

Steroid injections are commonly used to reduce the visibility of the hypertrophic scars. It helps by breaking down the collagen bonds within the scar tissues and also reduces the redness. With this process, the visibility of the hypertrophic scars becomes negligible. Although this could bring some risk of infection at the injection site. Thus, selecting an experienced provider is crucial in this case. 

4. Laser Therapy 

It is a good option to get rid of hypertrophic scars, which target the scar tissues. By breaking down the scar tissue, it reduces the thickness and pigmentation over time. It is a non-invasive technique that uses beams of light to treat the scar. Consult an experienced provider, as the lazer must be handled with care with the amount and time of exposure to the skin.

5. Microneedling 

Yet another effective method to deal with hypertrophic scars is microneedling, which involves tiny needles to create micro-injuries on the scar tissue. This method promotes collagen and elastic production to smooth out the scar over time. It is also a procedure that needs a skilled hand to perform due to certain side effects like redness or swelling at the area treated.

6. Scar Creams and Ointments 

The market is full of scar creams with ingredients like Vitamin E, onion extract, and aloe vera to provide moisture to the scar and make it dull over time. With the constant use of these scar creams, you can improve the texture of the skin and easily get rid of scars without any side effects. However, it is important to note that no cream can completely remove the scar but can definitely reduce the visibility. Also, it is important to know the type of skin you have, as creams are made according to the skin type: dry, oily, or sensitive.

Final Thought

Hypertrophic scars are the proof of the healing process but can come in the way of beauty. To get rid of the scars, it is important to take a few steps towards their care initially. There are certain ways you can remove the visibility of scars, like microneedling and laser therapy; however, these procedures do involve a skilled professional. You can also explore options like silicon gel and scar creams with good ingredients to make the hypertrophic scar disappear.