After an area of skin is injured, it takes time for it to heal. The body begins by creating a scab to close the wound. The scab will eventually fall off and leave beneath it a new layer. It will not be the same color as the rest of the body’s skin, but it will provide closure to the wound. It often starts out pink, then turns a lighter shade of the person’s natural skin tone. Over time, it may fade naturally. With age, it may become nearly invisible, depending on the severity. In some cases, keloid or hypertrophic scars may form. These are more pronounced and are often bright red or even purple. These are less likely to go away without intervention from surgery, medical procedures or topical creams. There are a number of different treatments for scars. Some work better than others, and certain types work best on certain kinds of scars. A medical provider can advise a patient on options and possibilities.

Silicone

Silicone scar products are one of the more innovative methods for reducing scars on the skin. When used properly, it is an effective method of how to get rid of scars on the face from injuries, acne, burns and surgeries. There are different types of silicone used for healing. Silicone scar gel is one type. Another is the sheet form. Some are tacky to the touch and do not disintegrate with use; others can be applied and blended in to the area. The gel is mostly invisible once applied to the area. Makeup and other products can be worn overtop without affecting it. Some types can be washed off with soap and water if necessary. Because the skin that makes the new layer of scarring is sensitive, it is important to limit its exposure to sunlight. Wearing sunscreen on top of silicone is also possible, depending on the specific product and recommendations by the manufacturer.

Surgery

There are different types of medical procedures available for scars. When it is wide or a an aggressive keloid formation, dermabrasion can be used to reduce the appearance, smoothing it down so that this zone is level with the rest of skin’s surface. Cosmetic surgery can be used to reduce the width of a scar that resembles a line from a cut or surgery, making it less noticeable. Skin grafts are used for larger areas. The donor skin is either taken from a cadaver or from another part of the patient’s body. Matches in skin tone and type are critical to a natural appearance and for the body to accept the new surface covering. After different types of surgical scar treatment are done, creams are often used to minimize the effects of the new scarred tissue.