What's behind the scar?

We get them virtually from anything. Acne scars, burn scars, surgical scars, accident scars and the dreaded stretch marks. Scarring is a natural part of the healing process.

How scars are formed
When skin or organs are cut, the healing process involves forming of new tissue to heal the injury. When this tissue is healed, it forms a scar. Scar tissue is made from fibrous connective tissue which is paler and denser because it has a less of a blood supply than "normal" tissue and it is less movable, and has less sensation. With time it shrinks and can then cause obstruction of the bowel.

Most scars are flat and pale. Some scars can have a sunken or pitted appearance. Scars also can appear as stretched skin. Such scars result when the skin stretches rapidly, as in growth spurts or during pregnancy.

A scar is a constant reminder of the past trials that many have overcome. People are motivated each and every time when they stare at their mark. Many embrace their scars proudly because it helps their self-esteem. No looking further for inspiration when your scar is the only needed reminder that live is short.

Treating a scar
If there is no abnormal wound healing such as hypertrophic scarring or keloid formation, then your best approach would be to only use over the counter treatments. Most scars tend to fade or heel quite nicely within the first year following surgery and it is not recommended to treat normal scar development during this time period, says an anti-ageing expert

After the year is over, one can consider various types of laser or even surgical scar revision if necessary. Needling has shown good results with scars and variable results may be achieved with light glycolic acid peels and at home topical treatments. The use of LED technology has also shown good results with healing scars.