Effective Treatments for Hypertrophic and Flat Scars

Scar medication

Hello, for hypertrophic scars, what type of medication should be applied? Also, what type of medication should be used for flat scars?

Xiao Min, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2002/07/20

Dr. Liao Wenyu reply Dermatology

1.
Injection therapy is generally recommended.
2.
For flat scars, it depends on the type of scar and whether there is a potential for improvement, which will determine the choice of medication.

Reply Date: 2002/07/20

More Info

When it comes to treating hypertrophic scars and flat scars, there are several effective options available, each tailored to the specific characteristics of the scar.

Hypertrophic Scars
Hypertrophic scars are raised, thickened areas of skin that develop after an injury or surgery. They are often red or dark in color and can be itchy or painful. Here are some effective treatments:
1. Silicone Gel Sheets or Silicone Gel: Silicone is one of the most recommended treatments for hypertrophic scars. Silicone gel sheets can be applied directly to the scar and are known to help flatten and soften the scar over time. Silicone gel can also be used for smaller scars and is easy to apply.

2. Corticosteroid Injections: These injections can help reduce inflammation and flatten hypertrophic scars. They are typically administered by a healthcare professional and may require multiple sessions for optimal results.

3. Pressure Therapy: For larger hypertrophic scars, especially those resulting from burns, pressure garments can be used to apply constant pressure to the scar, which can help flatten it over time.

4. Laser Therapy: Various types of laser treatments can be effective in reducing the appearance of hypertrophic scars. Fractional laser therapy, for example, can help improve skin texture and color.

5. Cryotherapy: This involves freezing the scar tissue, which can help reduce its size and improve its appearance.

6. Topical Treatments: Over-the-counter creams containing ingredients like onion extract (found in products like Mederma) may help improve the appearance of hypertrophic scars, although results can vary.

Flat Scars
Flat scars, which can be the result of surgical incisions, cuts, or other injuries, may not require as aggressive treatment as hypertrophic scars. However, if you are looking to improve their appearance, consider the following options:
1. Moisturizers: Keeping the scar moisturized can help improve its appearance. Products containing ingredients like vitamin E, aloe vera, or hyaluronic acid can be beneficial.

2. Sunscreen: Protecting scars from sun exposure is crucial, as UV rays can darken scars and make them more noticeable. Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher can help prevent this.

3. Chemical Peels: For flat scars that have discoloration, chemical peels can help exfoliate the skin and improve its appearance by promoting new skin growth.

4. Microneedling: This treatment involves using fine needles to create micro-injuries in the skin, which can stimulate collagen production and improve the texture of flat scars.

5. Topical Treatments: Similar to hypertrophic scars, flat scars can also benefit from topical treatments. Silicone gels and creams can help improve the texture and color of flat scars over time.

Conclusion
In summary, the treatment for hypertrophic scars often involves silicone gel sheets, corticosteroid injections, pressure therapy, laser therapy, cryotherapy, and topical treatments. For flat scars, moisturizers, sunscreen, chemical peels, microneedling, and topical treatments can be effective. It's essential to consult with a dermatologist or healthcare professional to determine the best treatment plan tailored to your specific scar type and skin condition. They can provide guidance on the most appropriate treatments and help monitor progress.

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