Hypertrophic scars just like other scars are as a result of the healing process of a wound on the skin’s surface. Hypertrophic scarring is scientifically known as Cicatrix Hypertrophica. These scars cause the scarred area to be raised and have a lumpy appearance compared to the surrounding skin. These type of scars are characterized by a reddish appearance, they may cause an itching sensation around the affected part and in severe cases they are painful and hinder functionality of the scarred area.
Various Methods/Ways Through Which Hypertrophic Scars Can Be Treated
1- Laser treatment
Laser scar treatment is considered effective in treating hypertrophic scars. The laser procedure involves vaporization of the top layers of the skin using a laser. In the process, the scar is flattened at the same time exposing the lower layers of the skin. There are lasers that have the capability of penetrating deep into the skin tissues reaching the epidermal layer. This results in stimulation of skin tissues leading to increased production of collagen. This new collagen causes the original scar to diminish and improve the appearance of the scarred area. The laser procedure takes around an hour depending on the extent of scarring; one is also administered with local anesthesia during the treatment.
2- Surgery
When a hypertrophic scar is resistant against other non invasive treatments, surgery can be a preferred option in treatment of the scar. One of the surgical procedures used in treatment of hypertrophic scars is z plasty. In this surgical procedure a zigzag cut is made when removing the scar. This relieves any contracture in the area and encourages proper healing of the skin. After healing has taken place, the scarred area will have a better appearance. Another surgical procedure that may be used is cryosurgery, this involves controlled freezing of the affected area to diminish the hypertrophic scars. Liquid nitrogen is the medium that is used in freezing the scars.
3- Use of pressure dressings
This is more of a preventative procedure of dealing with hypertrophic scars. In this method, when an area of the skin has been injured due to an accident or after surgery, it is immediately wrapped using pressure bandages. This prevents the area from being stretched and allows proper healing to take place. The end effect will be a small scar compared to the large disfiguring hypertrophic scars that might have formed at the wounded area.
4- Use of silicone gel
This is another treatment method used in dealing with hypertrophic scars. This method involves application of silicone gel at the scarred area for a period of time. When this method is done properly and all instructions followed correctly there are high chances of successful treatment of the hypertrophic scars. Over a period of time, the scars diminish leaving the area with a better look.
5- Use of steroid injections
This is also another popular treatment that people opt for when dealing with hypertrophic scars. It normally involves administering of steroid injections at the scarred area. Kenalog (also called triamcinolone) is a steroid that is usually used in this procedure. The steroids work by fading and flattening of the hypertrophic scars. The injections can be started once there are signs of formation of hypertrophic scars at a wounded area on the skin.
6- Radiotherapy
Radiotherapy as an option of treating hypertrophic scars is only used in severe cases of scarring. This method is not commonly used because there is an element of risk since the treatment incorporates opening wounds at the scarred area.
Natural ways of treating hypertrophic scars
7- Application of vitamin E
This is a natural way of treating hypertrophic scars; it involves application of vitamin E oil at the scarred area. This oil is easily available at food or drug stores at an affordable cost. The oil should be regularly applied at the scarred area and it will lead in fading and diminishing of the scars. One needs to have patience and give ample time for this treatment to work.
Other natural treatment options to treat Hypertrophic scars include:
- Application of lemon and cucumber juice at the scarred area.
- Use of pastes obtained from black grams and sandal wood
- Application of cod liver oil, gels made from Aloe Vera or even cocoa butter.
- Use of ice cubes at the scarred area
Selecting an appropriate treatment method highly increases the chances of success in dealing with hypertrophic scars. Therefore, one is advised to have an appointment with a dermatologist prior to choosing one of the methods used in treating hypertrophic scars.
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