How to Cover or Remove Scars
For some people, a scar may seem ugly or be reminiscent of bad accident. On knees and the back, scars are easily hidden beneath clothing. On the face, however, a split lip, eyebrow gash or acne scars can't be masked so easily. Though plastic surgery has come a long way in removing scars, some of us don't want to go under the knife, others cannot afford to.
Things You'll Need
- Liquid concealer
- Powder concealer
- Cosmetitian (if desired)
- Dermatologist (if desired)
Instructions
-
Covering a Scar
-
1
Analyze the tone and hue of the skin surrounding the scar. Often, scars are are lighter or darker than your typical skin tone. You want to use a product that matches your healthy skin as much as possible.
-
2
Go to either a large store that has many different brands of makeup, like Sephora, a trusted makeup counter, or a cosmetician at a spa that you frequent. At any one of these locations you can ask a professional to help you find a liquid and powder concealer made to cover blemishes and match your skin. Kat Von D has created such a product with her Tattoo Concealer.
-
-
3
Apply the liquid concealer first. Place a generous amount to the scar and cover it completely. Using a makeup sponge, dab the concealer and lightly rub in a circular motion until the scar is fully covered and the same color as the surrounding skin.
-
4
Using a powder applicator, dust the entire area with a powder concealer to even-out your tone.
Laser Scar Removal
-
5
Find a dermatologist that specializes in laser scar removal (see Resources).
-
6
Determine whether you are a good candidate for this procedure. Your doctor will advise you, but generally those with cystic acne and skin disorders like psoriasis will not benefit from laser scar removal. Conditions that may benefit from this procedure include acne, hypertrophic and keloid scars.
-
7
Stop taking medication prescribed for acne six months before you plan to have laser scar removal.
-
8
Plan for more than one treatment if you have several scars, from acne, for instance, or a large scar, like a keloid. Your doctor will advise you on how many procedures he thinks you will need.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Vitamin E helps produce collagen, and breaks down the free radicals that interfere with healing. Taking Vitamin E may improve the appearance of your scar.
If you do not follow your dermatologists instructions for laser scar removal after care, you'll risk damaging your skin further and discoloring the scar even more.
Cosmetic companies will tell you anything to sell their product. There is no miracle scar removal cream or pill. Some products may improve the appearance of your scar and skin, but none will heal or clear your scar up 100 percent.
