Features of modern methods of scar treatment

A wound is not so terrible as its consequences. The growth of connective tissue at the site of the wound gives rise to the formation of scars that spoil the appearance of the skin. As they studied the specifics of the formation of keloid scars, their structure and features, specialists invented new technologies for getting rid of them, as well as methods for treating scars. Find out on estet-potrtal.com the main methods of scar treatment used in cosmetology. Also  look at some of the creams that have been invented specifically to prevent scarring on the skin.

Which methods are used to treat scars?

Most of the approaches listed below are generally used to treat both hypertrophic and keloid scars. Read more about scar treatment methods further on estet-portal.com. However, clinical assessment of scar types is essential before starting any treatment, especially before any of the surgical or laser procedures listed below. In the practice of a dermatologist and cosmetologist, there are more and more patients who want to get rid of scars, so knowledge of treatment methods and indications for them is important for a specialist.

Basic treatments for skin scars:

• intrascar injections of corticosteroids;
• cryotherapy;
• surgical intervention;
• laser therapy;
• radiotherapy.

Intrascar injections of corticosteroids  as a treatment for scars

Intrascar corticosteroids have been known as one of the most commonly used treatments for scarring and reduction of hypertrophic keloids since the mid-1960s. The effect achieved by corticosteroids is explained by their ability to suppress inflammatory processes in the wound, as well as a decrease in the synthesis of collagen and glycosaminoglycan, slowing down the growth of fibroblasts and collagen production. The results are mixed. By themselves, intrascarring corticosteroid injections are most effective on more recent keloids and may provide symptomatic relief.

For longer-term hypertrophic scars and keloids, cryotherapy is the most popular scar treatment today.

Side effects include atrophy, telangiectasias, and pain at the site of the procedure. The latter can be avoided with local anesthesia.

Aspects of surgical scar treatment and cryotherapy

Cryotherapy is believed to cause vascular damage, which can lead to hypoxia and tissue death. This scar treatment consists of the insertion of a needle cryoprobe into the affected tissue, providing higher efficacy and shorter re-epithelialization periods than contact/spray scar treatments.

Some scar treatments involve surgical removal of scars, however, removal of keloids without accompanying procedures (corticosteroid injections, 5-FU, or radiation) has a high recurrence rate. Excision can also cause more scarring, and reoccurrence of the injury in this area can lead to even more keloid. The treatment of hypertrophic scars is different in that the timing of the surgery is a major factor influencing its outcome. . Hypertrophic scars that have existed for more than a year may improve on their own without any intervention.

Radiation and laser therapy – effective treatments for scars

Surface X-rays, electron beam and low or high dose close focus radiation therapy are used to reduce scarring, usually as an adjunct to surgical scar treatment, with good results. The reason for this is believed to be the effect of radiation on keloids, which slows down the development of  neovascular primordia and the growth of fibroblasts, which leads to a decrease in collagen production. Side effects: Hypo- and hyperpigmentation, reddening of the skin, telangiectasia and atrophy.

Because radiotherapy for scarring carries the risk of oncogenesis, especially in the breast and thyroid area, it is worth being very careful in its use.

Laser method of scar treatment.  The most effective in our time are 585 nm dye lasers, known as an excellent therapeutic option for the treatment of recent hypertrophic scars and keloids. The laser selectively targets small blood vessels, thereby leading to collagen modifications and the release of histamine and other factors that affect fibroblast activity.

Although fractional lasers are considered safe, they can cause temporary redness or swelling of the skin, dryness, crusting, milia or acne, pigmentation changes, infection, or delayed healing. That is why patients should undergo a full consultation and accompanying medical treatment before the procedure.

Which scar treatments can prevent problems

Imiquimod 5% cream, a topical immunomodulator, is recommended for the prevention of scarring, treatment of genital warts, basal cell carcinoma and solar keratosis. Imiquimod enhances the action of interferon, an anti-inflammatory cytokine that enhances collagen breakdown. Plus, imiquimod is effective in reducing the recurrence of keloids when used after surgery.

Botulinum toxin A immobilizes local muscles, reduces skin tension caused by muscle traction, thus reducing microtrauma and subsequent inflammation. Reducing the force of tension during wound healing and effectively managing the balance between fibroblast proliferation and cell loss could be a new therapeutic method for scar treatment and aesthetic enhancement of postoperative scars.