Hypertrophic Scar Cures
Hypertrophic scars are thick and raised. Also known as keloids, these types of scars form when there is too much collagen in the wound area. After an injury to the skin, the collagen forms scar tissue. Some people, particularly those with dark complexions, are more prone to forming keloids, but people of all races get these types of scars. Some scientists think keloids are the result of abnormalities that occur during the healing process. Nevertheless, there are a few treatments that have proven successful in reducing or removing keloids.
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Using Over-the-Counter Creams and Ointments
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One popular scar remover is Mederma, a commercial product that has many testimonials on its website. This ointment needs to be applied to keloids twice a day for a few months. Another product that was designed to treat hypertrophic scars is ScarGuard MD. This product was developed with the help of a plastic surgeon. It contains silicone and cortisone as its main ingredients. Many dermatologists and cosmetic surgeon recommend ScarGuard to patients following surgery. ScarGuard offers the best results to those who apply the cream 2 times a day for 2 to 4 months.
Using Silicone Sheets
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Silicone sheets are especially effective on keloids. The silicone sheet fits around the scar and applies pressure, which reduces the size of the scar gradually. The back of each sheet has adhesive. The silicone sheet is cut, and the piece of silicone is placed over the hypertrophic scar. Depending on the location of the scar, the silicone sheet can stay in place for 1 to 3 days before a new piece of silicone is attached to the wound.
Using Medical Procedures
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A dermatologist or plastic surgeon has a few methods for curing hypertrophic scars. Some keloids can be reduced by injected cortisone into the scar. Cortisone is an anti-inflammatory substance. Laser surgery can also reduces the size of the keloid with infrared light. Other methods are dermabrasion or microdermabrasion. Both these methods exfoliate the top skin layer and make the keloid flatter and smoother. Dermabrasion uses a wire brush to remove the top skin layer. Microdermabrasion uses tiny crystals to slough off the skin. With a few treatments, the keloid will grow less noticeable.
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