Scars & Stretch Marks
Scars, hypertrophic scars and scarring:
Scars are unsightly mementos that result from an injury such as a break in skin continuity. Minor scars resulting from mild injuries usually disappear, but some scars remain with us permanently. What kind of scar we will have to deal with depends on two things: the degree of skin damage (surface and depth) and the course of healing. The more difficult a scar is to heal (time, complications), the more likely it is that a scar will form in that area. When a wound heals quickly and smoothly, the greater the chance that a scar will not form in a given location. Although scars are a natural consequence of wound healing, they can be a source of discomfort and complexity for many people.
Another problem is the formation of scars (keloids) and hypertrophic scars, which result from disorders of normal skin healing and impaired collagen synthesis. The exact cause of the formation of scars is not known, but it is known that some people are more predisposed to the formation of such changes on the skin. Hypertrophic scars and keloids are raised nodules, which, in addition to a significant aesthetic defect, can be a source of pain, burning, itching and feeling of increased tissue tension.
Risk factors of scar formation:
- family history of scarring
- dark complexion
- Surgical wounds
- acne vulgaris
- burns
- ear piercing
Acne scars
Acne scars affect up to 80-90% of patients with acne. The cause of their formation is genetic predisposition combined with severe course type of acne (deep inflammatory, infiltrative changes). However, we do observe permanent marks remaining on the skin even in patients with acne of light intensity. Another factor influencing the formation of scars is squeezing and scratching acne lesions, which leads to bacterial overgrowth and improper skin healing. Most often scars are located on the cheeks, temples, forehead, shoulders, and back. Permanent acne marks cause great discomfort and reduce the quality of life of patients significantly.
Based on their appearance, acne scars are divided into:
- hypertrophic (hypertrophic), raised above the skin surface
- atrophic (atrophic), hollowed below the skin surface
- discolored
Atrophic scars, on the other hand, are divided into four groups:
- spike-shaped, ice-pick;
- wagon-shaped, boxcar-shaped;
- cylindrical valleys, rolling;
- shallow, atrophic
Stretch marks
Stretch marks are a common problem that affects many people of different age ranges. They are parallel, spindle-shaped bands of thinning, wrinkled skin. Initially, they may be inflamed (red stretch marks), then fade and atrophy. On the skin they give the image of unsightly visible lines. Stretch marks are caused by excessive stretching of the skin or its weakening, as well as the rupture of a network of collagen and elastin fibers forming a dermal structure. Stretch marks are not dangerous to health, however they are a serious aesthetic defect. Many people have complexes and are embarrassed to undress on the beach in the summer because of stretch marks. Stretch marks concern both men and women. They are most commonly located on the thighs, buttocks, in the sacral area and on the skin of the abdomen and breasts (after pregnancy).
Causes of stretch marks:
- rapid body growth
- pregnancy
- rapid increase in muscle mass
- rapid increase in body fat
- hormonal factors
- steroid preparations
Stretch mark treatment therapy is similar to scar treatment. It requires a series of treatments. However, it has satisfactory efficiency and durability of effects.
The choice of the method depends on the location and size of stretch marks. It is qualified by a doctor or cosmetologist during a consultation visit.