Scar Prevention and Treatment

Scarring is a natural result of the skin’s healing process following injury, inflammation, or surgery. As the skin repairs itself, collagen is produced to restore strength, which can lead to visible changes in texture, colour, or thickness.

The appearance and behaviour of scars vary widely between individuals.

Complete prevention of scarring is not always possible, but the risk and severity can often be reduced. Preventive strategies include:

• Avoiding unnecessary skin injury or procedures

• Considering non-invasive options where appropriate

• Careful planning of procedures, particularly in visible areas

• Attention to skin tension lines and appropriate surgical techniques

• Good post-procedure wound care

In inflammatory skin conditions such as acne, early and effective treatment is important to reduce ongoing inflammation and lower the risk of permanent scarring.

Once the skin surface has healed, early scar care may help improve scar appearance and symptoms. Measures may include:

• Scar massage, when appropriate

• Silicone gel or silicone tape

• Sun protection to reduce the risk of scar pigmentation

Early intervention is often most effective in the initial months after healing.

Scars may take different forms, including:

• Flat scars that gradually fade over time

• Pigmented scars that appear darker or lighter than surrounding skin

• Hypertrophic scars, which are raised but confined to the original wound

• Keloid scars, which extend beyond the original wound margin

Identifying the scar type helps guide management.

Some scars become raised, thickened, or firm due to excessive collagen production. These include hypertrophic and keloid scars and may be associated with itch, discomfort, or tenderness.

Certain individuals and body sites are more prone to raised scarring.

Management of raised scars is individualised and depends on scar type, symptoms, and location. In selected cases, treatments such as intralesional corticosteroid injections may be considered to help soften and flatten raised scars.

 Treatment decisions are guided by careful assessment and discussion of potential benefits and risks.

Medical review may be helpful to:

• Assess scar type and behaviour

• Identify risk of ongoing thickening or symptoms

• Discuss preventive strategies for future procedures

• Consider early intervention where appropriate

• Clarify expectations regarding scar evolution

Dermatologists are trained to assess different scar types, identify patients at higher risk of problematic scarring, and guide evidence-based prevention and management strategies. Specialist review supports appropriate planning, early intervention, and safe treatment selection.

At Ready Dermatology, North Shore Health Hub, St Leonards, our dermatologist assesses scarring concerns, provides guidance on prevention strategies, and advises on appropriate management options tailored to individual needs.