Laser scar removal is another popular use of laser technology. Laser treatment reduces the appearance of scars by 50 to 80 percent and helps prevent recurrence.
What Causes Scarring?
The wound-healing process begins with inflammation, progresses to tissue formation and ends with modifying specific factors in the anatomy such as collagen, the main protein found in connective tissue that supports the skin, bone, cartilage and blood vessels.
Scarring occurs when the wound-healing process is disrupted by certain factors such as too much or too little collagen. For example, a keloid scar is a mass of collagen.
Applications of Laser Scar Removal
Today's laser scar removal techniques can reduce the appearance of several types of scars, including:
- Keloid Scarring: Firm, raised and reddish-purple scars that extend beyond the initial wound area and build over time.
- Hypertrophic Scarring: Firm, raised and pink scars that remain within the initial wound area and may fade over time.
- Atrophic Scarring: Depressed pin-like pockets in the skin that can result from skin conditions or diseases such as acne.
Not everyone is a candidate for laser scar removal. People with skin disorders such as psoriasis, cystic acne and dermatitis may not be ideal candidates. Those using certain medications such as isotretinoin for acne must stop using the medication for six months prior to the procedure.