Scar tissue

Scar tissue is a common part of the skin's healing process after it has been damaged. It is a collection of new connective tissue and microscopic blood vessels that form on the skin's surface during the healing process.

Formation

Scar tissue forms when the skin's dermis is damaged. The body forms new collagen fibers to mend the damage, resulting in a scar. The new scar tissue will have a different texture and quality than the surrounding tissue. Scars form after a wound is completely healed.

Types of Scars

There are several types of scars including:

• Keloid Scars: These scars are the result of an overly aggressive healing process. They extend beyond the original injury.
• Contracture Scars: If your skin has been burned, you may have a contracture scar. These scars tighten skin, which can impair your ability to move.
• Hypertrophic Scars: These are raised, red scars that are similar to keloids but do not go beyond the boundary of the injury.
• Acne Scars: If you've had severe acne, you probably have the scars to prove it. There are many types of acne scars, ranging from deep pits to scars that are angular or wavelike in appearance.

Treatment

Treatment options depend on the types of scar, its stage of healing and a variety of other factors. Common treatments include surgical removal or treatment, laser surgery, or steroid injections. Smaller keloids can be treated using cryotherapy (freezing therapy using liquid nitrogen). You can also prevent keloid formation by using pressure treatment or gel pads with silicone when you sustain a skin injury.

See Also

• Wound healing
• Collagen
• Dermis