Understanding Why Your Body Scars Following Injury

Scars are thick patches of skin that form as a wound is healing and provide permanent protection following burns, sores, cuts and scrapes. As the body heals, it utilizes a framework of collagen to repair damaged tissue. Unfortunately, collagen is a slightly different color and texture than surrounding skin, so it leaves a mark after the injury heals.

Scar formation

Scar tissue forms when the deepest layer of skin suffers damage. In response to the injury, the body produces new collagen fibers made of protein. This new tissue has a different texture and quality than the surrounding tissue, so it results in a visible scar once the wound is completely healed. Even though most scars appear flat and pale, scars can become raised if the body produces too much collagen.

Scar treatment

The body can develop many types of scars, including acne scars and scars extending beyond the injury site, so most people form scars at some point in their lives. The easiest way to treat a raised scar is by applying a topical prescription, such as a silicone-containing gel or cream. Over time, this can help reduce the thickness of the raised scar. Doctors can also decrease scar thickness by administering cortisone injection. If the scar is soft and indented, soft tissue filler, like collagen, can help smooth out the scar appearance.

Home remedies

Aloe vera is one of the most popular home remedies for reducing scars because of its moisturizing properties. It can also increase the elasticity of scar tissue, which helps reduce skin inflammation. Similar to aloe vera, vitamin E and cocoa butter also help reduce scar tissue inflammation. Tea tree oil is an effective treatment for acne scars, as it helps kill bacteria that can trigger acne flare-ups.

To discuss your rights and legal obligations with an experienced Tucson personal injury attorney, please contact Hameroff Law Firm, P.C. at (520) 792-4700. Our personal injury law team has stood up for victims of negligence in southern Arizona for more than 25 years. We’ve negotiated personal injury cases ranging from rear-end collisions to multimillion dollar wrongful death claims.