Many people often wonder how to remove scars and tattoos from their body. Well, there are many options.
While some of these options only make scars less visible, others can remove any markings that might be on the skin. Scar-removal techniques are often chosen based on the nature of the scar, the desired results and budget. The following are the top 5 scar removal techniques.
1. Scar-Removal Products
There are many types of over-the-counter scar removal products on the market. These scar-reducers are available in form of creams, gels, lotions, salves and ointments. They are applied to the scarred area on a regular basis. It is important to note that these products reduce the visibility of scars over a period of time.
A common ingredient in these products is silicone. It’s known for its effectiveness in the flattening and lightening of scars. Another popular ingredients in these products is alpha-hydroxy acids. These acids come from natural fruit juices, and they are effective in scar removal. They work by peeling off dead skin cells.
2. Natural Remedies
Before the advent of modern medicine, people used different types of oils, fruits extracts, herbs and other types of plants to remove scars. For instance, rubbing lemon juice on a scar using a cotton ball can help to reduce its visibility.
Besides stimulating tissue regeneration and treating wounds, raw honey can also treat scars. Raw honey is first mixed with baking soda and massaged onto the scarred area for a couple of minutes. A hot washcloth is then used to cover the area until it cools down. The paste is then wiped off.
Aloe vera gel can help to minimize the visibility of scars. It has anti-inflammatory properties that can help in the removal of dead skin cells and minimize skin irritations. Aloe vera is available in lotions, ointments and gels.
Applying the following natural ingredients to the affected area might also help:
– Indian gooseberry
– Cucumber paste (a mixture of eggs, mint and cucumber)
– Tea Tree oil
– Olive oil
– Onion extract
3. Dermabrasion
Dermabrasion involves wearing down a scar using a motorized wire brush. The procedure is quick and effective. However, it may be uncomfortable since you will be awake throughout the procedure. Once the surface of the skin is flat and smoother, other techniques may make the tone of the skin even.
4. Surgical Scar Revision
In this method, a surgeon surgically removes the scar and covers the area with the surrounding healthy tissue. The surgeon can also hide the scar in places like hairlines and wrinkles. Alternatively, scars can be disguised, shortened or thinned surgically. This is a minor surgical procedure, so it is done on outpatient basis. It is commonly used to remove scars associated with major surgical procedures as well as physical injuries.
Related: Understending and Minimizing Liposuction Scars
5. Laser Surgery
Scar removal through laser surgery has become very popular over the last decade. This is because the technique is very effective. High energy laser is focused onto the affected area. The result is flattening and reduced redness of the scar. There are numerous types of lasers that can be used in the removal of different types of scars.
However, Pulsed Dye Laser is the most popular. Controlled laser beams penetrate the epidermis and reaches the supporting structures of the skin. This activates the body’s healing processes. Old damaged cells are swept away and replaced with new elastin and collagen. These are the basic building blocks for healthy skin tissue. Several procedures may be needed for optimal results.
The Benefits of Laser Surgery for Scar Removal
– It’s very effective
– Produces long-lasting results
– Has no side effects
– It’s a non-invasive procedure
– No recovery time is needed
– Excellent results
– Minimal discomfort during the procedure
Laser surgery is without a doubt, the most effective scar removal technique in existence.