What Causes Scarring?
Scars form when the body repairs damaged skin by producing collagen. The quality and structure of this new collagen differ from normal skin, leading to visible marks or raised areas. Several factors influence the formation and severity of scars, including:
- Depth of the Injury
- The deeper the wound, the more extensive the scarring.
- Surface-level injuries may heal without noticeable scars, whereas deep trauma can result in long-lasting marks.
- Skin Type & Genetics
- Some individuals are more prone to scarring due to genetic predisposition.
- Darker skin tones have a higher risk of developing hyperpigmented or raised scars (keloids).
- Location on the Body
- Areas with thinner skin (such as the face) tend to heal differently compared to areas with thicker skin (like the back or chest).
- Inflammation & Infection
- Poor healing due to infection or prolonged inflammation can worsen scarring.
- Acne scars, for example, develop when inflammation damages collagen in the skin.
- Wound Care & Sun Exposure
- Improper wound care can lead to more visible scars.
- UV exposure can darken scars and make them more prominent.
Types of Scars
- Keloid Scars
- Appearance: Thick, raised, and may grow beyond the original wound site.
- Cause: Overproduction of collagen in the healing process.
- Common Areas: Chest, shoulders, back, earlobes.
- Symptoms: May be itchy, painful, or darker than surrounding skin.
- Hypertrophic Scars
- Appearance: Raised and red but remain within the boundary of the original injury.
- Cause: Excessive collagen production, similar to keloids, but less severe.
- Common Areas: Areas of high movement like joints.
- Atrophic Scars (Depressed Scars)
- Appearance: Indented, sunken scars that sit below the skin’s surface.
- Cause: Loss of collagen and tissue due to severe acne or deep injuries.
- Common Areas: Face (cheeks, forehead), areas affected by acne or chickenpox.
Types of Scars (continued)
- Contracture Scars (Burn Scars)
- Appearance: Tight, thickened skin that can restrict movement.
- Cause: Burn injuries leading to skin tightening and loss of elasticity.
- Common Areas: Any area affected by burns, particularly hands, joints, and limbs.
- Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) Scars
- Appearance: Darkened or discoloured patches left after an injury or acne.
- Cause: Inflammatory response triggers excess melanin production.
- Common Areas: Face, chest, back (common after acne breakouts).
Treatment Options for Scars
At The Karma Clinic, we offer cutting-edge treatments designed to improve the appearance of scars, stimulate collagen production, and enhance overall skin texture.
Please note: Keloid scars cannot be treated.
How does SkinPen help improve scars?
- Breaks down old scar tissue and stimulates collagen renewal.
- Reduces redness, pigmentation, and uneven skin texture.
- Improves elasticity and helps scars blend with surrounding skin.
How does IPL work for scars?
- Uses light energy to target redness, hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin tone.
- Reduces post-inflammatory pigmentation caused by acne scars.
- Encourages collagen production for smoother skin.
Topical treatments can help soften, lighten, and improve the texture of scars:
- Retinoids & Vitamin C: Speed up cell turnover and reduce hyperpigmentation.
- Silicone-Based Scar Treatments: Hydrate and flatten raised scars.
- Exfoliating Acids (AHAs & BHAs): Encourage skin regeneration.
How do chemical peels improve scarring?
- Exfoliate dead skin cells and encourage skin renewal.
- Reduce discolouration and even out skin tone.
- Target surface-level scars, especially post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
We treat surgical scars, acne scars, stretch marks, and injury-related scarring.
Microneedling, IPL, and topical skincare improve texture, colour, and depth over time.
They can be softened and reduced significantly, though not always erased.
Book Your Consultation Today
If scarring is affecting your confidence, The Karma Clinic offers tailored, results-driven treatments to improve skin texture and reduce the visibility of scars.
Contact us today to book a consultation and receive a personalised treatment plan.
