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Understanding Atrophic, Hypertrophic, and Keloid Scars

By Dr. Jo Ey

Ever wondered why some scars appear as tiny craters, while others stand out like unwelcome mountain ranges?

When your skin experiences trauma, it doesn’t always heal the same way. An overproduction of collagen during healing can cause raised scars, such as hypertrophic scars or keloid scars. On the other hand, when the skin cannot regenerate tissue, it results in atrophic scars, which appear as depressions in the skin.

Let’s explore the fascinating world of scars and discover how they form and the treatments available for effective scar healing.

Raised Scars: The Overachievers of Healing

Raised scars occur when the skin produces too much collagen during healing. These scars are categorized into two types:

Hypertrophic Scars

  • Raised, thick scar within the original wound boundaries
  • Reddish or brown-red in color, becoming pale over time
  • May regress spontaneously

Keloid Scars

  • Raised, irregular scar that grows beyond the original wound boundaries
  • Color ranges from pink to dark brown
  • Does not regress spontaneously and is often accompanied by itchiness, pain, and discomfort

Common Locations for Raised Scars:

  • Earlobes
  • Jawline
  • Back of the neck
  • Chest
  • Deltoid region
  • Upper back

Atrophic Scars: The Skin’s Little Valleys

Atrophic scars are depressions in the skin caused by the loss of tissue during healing. These scars come in three main forms:

  • Ice Pick Scars: Small, deep depressions resembling enlarged pores, typically 1-2mm in size.
  • Boxcar Scars: Round or oval scars with sharp vertical edges and a flat base, often appearing in clusters on the cheeks.
  • Rolling Scars: Wavelike contours caused by variable loss of dermal and/or subcutaneous tissue, most evident under indirect lighting.

It’s rare for individuals to have only one type of acne scar. Most patients exhibit a mix of boxcar scars, ice pick scars, and rolling scars.

The Healing Journey: Effective Scar Treatments

Treating scars can be complex, as different types require tailored approaches. Consultation with a professional is essential to determine the best scar treatment for your specific needs.

Treatments for Atrophic Scars:

  • Subcision
  • Microneedling + RF (Sylfirm X)
  • CO2 fractional laser
  • PICO laser
  • Injectables such as JuveLook, Plinest, and PRF
These interventions target the dermal layer to stimulate collagen production and restore skin texture.

Treatments for Hypertrophic Scars and Keloid Scars:

  • Intralesional corticosteroid injections to soften and flatten scars, relieving pain and itchiness
  • Yellow laser therapy to target blood vessels, preventing scar growth and reducing redness

Contact Us For Expert Scar Treatment Solutions

Don’t let scars affect your confidence. Book your consultation today to determine the most effective scar healing approach tailored to your unique skin type. Whether you’re dealing with atrophic scars, keloid scars, or hypertrophic scars, our professional team is here to help you achieve smoother, healthier skin.

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Persiaran Surian, Kota Damansara,
47810 Petaling Jaya.

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