Scars
What are Scars
Scars are areas of fibrous tissue that form as part of the body’s natural healing response after the skin has been injured. Whenever the dermis—the deeper layer of the skin—is damaged by trauma, surgery, burns, acne, inflammation, or certain medical conditions, the body produces new collagen fibers to repair the affected area. This repair tissue is structurally different from normal skin, which is why scars may appear raised, flat, sunken, discolored, or texturally uneven. Scars can develop anywhere on the body and vary widely in appearance depending on the depth of injury, the individual’s skin type, the healing environment, and the presence of inflammation. For many people, scars are a long-term reminder of past injuries or conditions. They can have both physical and emotional effects, mainly when they occur on visible areas such as the face.
What Are the Causes
Scars form as a result of the body’s attempt to replace damaged tissue with new collagen. When the skin undergoes trauma—whether through cuts, surgical incisions, burns, acne lesions, or chronic inflammation—the body quickly initiates a complex wound-healing cascade. This process begins with inflammation and progresses to collagen production and tissue remodeling. If the body produces too much collagen, scars may become raised and thickened, known as hypertrophic scars or keloids. When the body produces insufficient collagen or the underlying support structure is damaged, the scar may appear sunken or indented, as seen with acne scars or injuries that destroy deeper layers of tissue. Genetics plays a significant role in how people scar; some individuals naturally produce more pronounced scar tissue. Skin tone can also influence scar behavior, with darker skin types more prone to hyperpigmentation or keloid formation. Delayed wound healing, infection, repeated picking, and excessive inflammation increase the risk of abnormal scarring. Even minor injuries can result in noticeable scars if the healing conditions are compromised.
Symptoms
Scars appear in many forms, depending on their type and origin. Some scars appear red, pink, or darker than the surrounding skin and may gradually fade over time, while others remain visibly discolored for years. Raised scars can feel firm, thick, or rubbery to the touch and may cause itching or sensitivity. Indented scars, particularly those resulting from acne, often create shadowed or uneven areas on the skin’s surface. Some scars restrict movement when they develop over joints or areas with frequent motion, causing tightness or discomfort. They may also become painful if nerve endings are involved during the healing process. Emotional symptoms are equally important, as many people feel self-conscious when scars appear on the face or other prominent locations. The appearance, texture, and persistence of scars can significantly affect confidence and quality of life.
How Many People Are Affected
Scarring is widespread, affecting the vast majority of people at some point in their lives. Nearly everyone has at least one scar, whether from minor childhood injuries, surgeries, acne, burns, or inflammatory skin conditions. Acne alone affects millions worldwide, and a significant percentage of those who experience moderate to severe acne develop permanent scarring. Surgical procedures are another major contributor, with an estimated hundreds of millions performed each year globally, most leaving some degree of scar tissue. Keloids and hypertrophic scars are more prevalent in individuals with medium to darker skin tones, and specific genetic backgrounds increase the likelihood of excessive scarring. Because scars can result from everyday injuries and medical interventions, they are among the most universal skin concerns worldwide.
Complications
Scarring is widespread, affecting the vast majority of people at some point in their lives. Nearly everyone has at least one scar, whether from minor childhood injuries, surgeries, acne, burns, or inflammatory skin conditions. Acne alone affects millions worldwide, and a significant percentage of those who experience moderate to severe acne develop permanent scarring. Surgical procedures are another major contributor, with an estimated hundreds of millions performed each year globally, most leaving some degree of scar tissue. Keloids and hypertrophic scars are more prevalent in individuals with medium to darker skin tones, and specific genetic backgrounds increase the likelihood of excessive scarring. Because scars can result from everyday injuries and medical interventions, they are among the most universal skin concerns worldwide.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing scars typically involves a physical examination where a healthcare professional evaluates the type, texture, depth, and location of the scar. Understanding the history of the injury or condition that caused the scar helps determine whether it is likely to be hypertrophic, keloid, atrophic, contracture-based, or pigmented. The clinician may assess skin tone, healing patterns, and any associated symptoms such as itching or pain. In some cases, dermoscopy or imaging may be used to evaluate the structure of the scar tissue and the health of the surrounding skin. Diagnosing acne scars may involve classifying them into rolling, boxcar, or ice-pick types, as each behaves differently and responds to different forms of management. A thorough evaluation ensures the cause and type of the scar are correctly identified, so individuals can understand how the scar developed and which supportive care options may be relevant.
Treatment Options
Treatment options for scars vary depending on their type, age, severity, and the individual’s skin characteristics. Options may include topical therapies designed to soften tissue, reduce discoloration, or support collagen regulation. Silicone gels or sheets are often recommended to help flatten raised scars and improve texture over time. Professional treatments such as chemical peels, microneedling, and resurfacing procedures may be used to stimulate collagen remodeling and improve the appearance of indented or uneven scars. Laser-based therapies can target pigmentation, redness, and textural irregularities. For thicker scars, corticosteroid injections or pressure therapy may be used to help reduce raised tissue. Lifestyle habits—such as sun protection, avoiding picking, and using gentle skincare—play an essential role in supporting long-term skin healing. Depending on the scar’s characteristics, a clinician may recommend a combination of approaches to achieve the best outcome. Since scars evolve, early evaluation can help prevent long-term changes and support healthier healing.