11030 Scars

Overview

A scar is a mark left on the skin after a wound, burn, or surgery heals. It is the body's natural way of repairing damaged skin by replacing it with new tissue. Scars can be flat, raised, dark, or light, and they may fade over time, but they usually never go away completely.

Yes. Almost everyone has at least one scar. They are a natural result of healing after an injury or surgery.

Anyone can get a scar. People of all ages, skin types, and backgrounds can develop scars. Some people are more likely to form raised scars or thick scars called keloids, especially people with darker skin tones.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• A visible mark on the skin that looks different from surrounding skin
• Skin that is smooth, shiny, or slightly raised
• A darker or lighter area of skin compared with the normal skin around it
• Mild itching or tightness in the area as the scar matures
• The scar may feel firm or hard to the touch at first

Symptoms in children

• Children may develop scars more easily because they are active and get minor injuries often.
• Their scars may look more pronounced at first but often soften and fade as they grow.
• Children may scratch or pick at itchy scars, so it is important to keep scars clean and moisturised.

Symptoms in older adults

• Skin becomes thinner and less elastic with age, which can affect how scars form and heal.
• Older adults may take longer to heal wounds, so scars can take longer to mature.
• Scars may be more fragile, so it is important to protect them from sun and injury.

Causes

Main causes

• Cuts and lacerations from accidents or sharp objects
• Burns, including from heat, chemicals, or electricity
• Surgical incisions or stitches after operations
• Insect bites or animal bites that break the skin
• Skin infections that cause deep tissue damage
• Acne or chickenpox that leaves pitted or raised marks
• Tattoos or piercings if they cause a wound or infection

Risk factors

• Having a wound that is deep, large, or takes a long time to heal
• Age — younger skin tends to develop more noticeable scars
• Genetics — family history of raised scars or keloids
• Being of African, Asian, or Hispanic descent, which is linked to a higher risk of keloid scars
• Wound infection or repeated injury to the same area
• Poor nutrition or health conditions such as diabetes that slow healing
• Smoking, which reduces blood flow and slows healing

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• The scar area becomes increasingly red, swollen, warm, or painful, which could mean an infection.
• You have a recent wound that has split open or is not closing.
• A scar restricts movement or makes it hard to use your hands or other joints.
• You notice a scar changing quickly in size, shape, or colour over a few weeks.

Book a routine appointment if:

• You are concerned about how a scar looks, and you want to know about treatments to make it less noticeable.
• A scar is itchy, painful, or tender and does not improve with simple moisturising.
• You have recently had surgery and want advice on proper scar care.
• A scar from an older injury becomes newly symptomatic — painful, itchy, or changing.

Diagnosis

A doctor or nurse can usually diagnose a scar by looking at it and asking about the history of the wound or surgery. They will want to know what caused the scar, how long it has been there, and whether it has changed.

Tests that may be done

• Sometimes no tests are needed at all — a visual examination is enough.
• If a scar is painful or restricts movement, the doctor may gently test how the skin and nearby joints move.
• If an infection is suspected, a small swab may be taken from the wound.
• In rare cases, a doctor may refer you for a biopsy (taking a small sample of skin) if the scar looks unusual.

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor will ask questions and may examine the scar closely. They may use a light to look at the skin texture. They will also explain your options for managing the scar, and if needed, refer you to a skin specialist (dermatologist) or a plastic surgeon. Most appointments for scar concerns are quick and straightforward.

Treatment

Treatment for scars depends on the type, size, location, and how much it bothers you. The goal is not to erase the scar entirely but to make it flatter, softer, lighter, or less painful. Many treatment options are available, including creams, silicone dressings, pressure garments, and, in some cases, cosmetic procedures.

Self-care at home

• Keep new scars out of direct sunlight. Use sunscreen or cover the area with clothing, because sun can darken a scar and make it more visible.
• Moisturise the scar daily with a simple, fragrance-free lotion or cream to help keep the skin soft.
• Gently massage the scar once the wound is fully healed to help soften the tissue.
• Silicone gel or silicone sheets (available over the counter in pharmacies) can be applied to flat or raised scars to help flatten and fade them, especially early after healing.
• Avoid picking at scabs or scratching an itchy scar — this can make it worse.

Medical treatments

For scars that are raised, thick, itchy, or cause difficulty with movement, a doctor may offer treatments such as silicone-based products, corticosteroid injections, or light therapy. These are usually done by specialists. Physical therapy and pressure garments can also be recommended, especially after burns. It is important to ask your healthcare provider what is available through your local health service and what might suit your situation.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not usually the first option, but it may be considered for scars that limit movement, cause significant cosmetic distress, or are very thick and do not improve with other treatments. A surgeon can sometimes revise a scar or release a tight scar to improve movement. This is always a personal decision made with a specialist.

Living with this condition

Most scars do not cause day-to-day problems, but they may look different and take time to accept. If a scar is tender or itchy, keep it moisturised and protected. For scars on visible areas like the face or hands, wearing sun protection or using makeup or camouflaging products can help you feel more comfortable.

Lifestyle tips

• Protect scars from sun exposure every day, as this is one of the most effective ways to stop them darkening.
• Keep the scar area clean, especially in the first months after healing.
• If a scar is in a place that moves a lot, like a knee or shoulder, keep moving gently within the limits of comfort to avoid stiffness.
• Avoid smoking, as it slows healing and can make scars worse.

Diet and exercise

Eating a balanced diet with plenty of protein, vitamins (especially vitamin C and zinc) can support healthy skin repair. Gentle exercise improves blood circulation and keeps the skin supple, but avoid strenuous activity that pulls on a scar until it has matured. Listen to your body — if an activity causes pain in a scar, stop and seek advice.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Scars can affect how you feel about yourself, especially if they are large or very visible. It is normal to feel self-conscious, frustrated, or worried. Remember that scars are part of your body's healing story, and many people accept them over time. If you feel down or anxious because of a scar, talk to your doctor or a counsellor — you do not have to cope alone.

Prevention

Every wound can leave a scar, but you can reduce the chance of a large, noticeable scar. The best way is to care for the wound properly: clean it gently, keep it covered with a dressing while it heals, avoid picking at scabs, and protect the healing area from sun. If you have surgery, follow your surgeon's aftercare advice exactly.

Complications

If left untreated

• Scars do not usually become 'worse' if not treated, but they can become more noticeable over time if exposed to the sun.
• Some scars can become hard, raised, and extend beyond the original wound, causing itching or pain.
• Scars over joints can tighten and limit movement if not managed.
• Rarely, a scar can become infected, red, swollen, or painful, especially if the original wound was deep or dirty.

Long-term outlook

The outlook is very good. Most scars fade, soften, and flatten on their own within one to two years. Even when a scar does not completely disappear, there are many things you can do to improve how it looks and feels. With time, patience, and the right care, most people are satisfied with their scars and live an active, full life.

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