Scarring is a natural part of life. You might have undergone a surgery, experienced acne or just be a bit of a klutz. Whatever the unique story behind your scarring, one thing is universal: we all have scars from life's ups and downs, bumps and scrapes.
We understand that scars may make you self-conscious, particularly if they're visible on prominent parts of your body. For some people, scarring can have an impact on their self-esteem, their social life and their romantic relationships. They may encounter bullying about their scarring or simply feel people judge them silently for it.
The good news is that things can be different. Scar removal is an in-demand skincare treatment, with many Australians looking for therapeutic assistance to regain the skin they deserve.
The dermal clinicians at Victorian Dermal Group are fully accredited and specially trained, and we can diminish and eliminate the appearance of scars, thanks to decades of cosmetic treatment research and practice. We are driven by results and we work hard to ensure you and your experience are at the heart of treatment. Our goal is always to work with you to decide the best scar treatment for your needs.
To help you move forward, we've composed a handy guide to scarring and the products and treatments used to heal it. We answer such questions as:
- What is scarring?
- How can I prevent scarring?
- How quickly can you get rid of my scarring?
- Can I receive multiple kinds of scar treatments?
We also consider some effective ways you can help treat scarring at home, as well as exploring the therapeutic options.
[content_aside]The clinical specialists at Victorian Dermal Group have assisted countless individuals with treating scarring and restoring their confidence. We offer acne treatments, laser therapies, scarring serums and creams. Find out more about the ways we can help you get rid of scarring. [/content_aside]
What is scarring?
Scarring occurs when the skin's top layer suffers damage. In response the body generates new fibres of collagen to repair the damaged area, which results in a scar being formed. Scar tissue differs in cell composition and texture from the skin surrounding it. The more severe the wound, and the longer it takes to heal, the more prominent the scar will be. Wounds that heal within two weeks typically give rise to smaller, less obvious scars.
How can I prevent scarring?
Whenever your skin sustains an injury your body works to repair the wound. As the wound heals, a scar can form. The scar's appearance depends on how well the wound heals. Properly treating the wound as it heals can make all the difference between a highly visible scar and one you can hardly notice at all. Here are some easy tips to prevent or minimise scarring:
- Keep the wounded skin clean, regardless of the size of the injury. Carefully wash the area with mild soapy water to get rid of germs and debris.
- Apply Vaseline to keep the wound moist and prevent it from drying out and forming a scab.
- Cover the affected skin with a bandage to insulate it from debris and air.
- Regularly change bandages daily so the wound remains clean as it heals.
- If the injury needs stitches, follow medical advice on caring for the wound.
- After the wound has healed, apply sunscreen to it. Sun protection will reduce discolouration, aiding the fading of the scar. Be sure to reapply frequently.
Is scarring permanent?
Once a scar has formed and the wound completes its healing, it can disappear over time. In many cases, however, severe scarring such as post-operative or acne scarring can linger. In these cases, therapeutic interventions may be necessary to assist your body to complete its healing.
What options do you provide for treating scarring?
We have invested significant resources in researching techniques and technologies to diminish and remove scar tissue. We offer treatments ranging from Dermamelan and Cosmelan acne scarring facial peels, to the Dual Fraxel laser therapy. When you meet with us at your initial consultation, we can assess your skin then devise a treatment strategy to secure the best results for you.
How quickly can you get rid of my scarring?
The speed at which we can treat a scar depends on the nature of the scarring. We can treat post-surgical scars immediately after the scar has healed or the stitches have been removed. For acne scarring, we can provide treatment as soon as the blemishes have been managed.
What is laser scar removal?
Laser scar removal is a treatment in which dermal surgeons use light to targets the topmost layers of the skin in order encourage new skin growth. This new growth displaces skin irregularities like scarring, resulting in a smoother appearance of the targeted area.
How does laser scar removal work?
Laser scar removal works by damaging the scarred portion of skin, triggering increased collagen production. Collagen keeps skin looking smooth and youthful, minimising lines and skin irregularities like scarring.
Do laser scar removal treatments hurt?
Mild discomfort can accompany treatment sessions, but we minimise unpleasant sensations as much as possible. If you'd like, we can use a numbing cream on the area before we carry out the removal.
How many laser sessions does it take to remove scar tissue?
Until we conduct an in-person consultation with you, we can't answer this question accurately. Generally, it takes at minimum two or three sessions to eliminate the scar tissue visibility completely.
Do scar laser removal treatments have side effects?
Our clients occasionally experience brief side effects after the treatment. These can include:
- Tenderness and redness
- Swelling and bruising
- Temporarily lighter skin in the treated area
- A prickling or burning sensation
These side effects are temporary and will only last a short while.
What is a skin needling treatment and can it help with scarring?
Skin needling involves making small punctures in the uppermost skin layers. These abrasions cause collagen to be produced, which heals the wound and replaces the scar tissue with new smooth, even-toned skin.
VDG uses Medik8 skin needling, a completely safe and healthy skin renewal technique. Unlike many other treatments, our skin needling can be used for a variety of skin types, including skin around the eye, mouth, neck, hands and décolletage.
Are there side effects of skin needling?
You may experience short-term side effects like skin flaking, redness and swelling. This is a normal response which demonstrates more collagen is being produced to heal the skin. After several days, these side effects should disappear, leaving less visible scarring.
How many skin needling sessions will my scars require?
There is no set number of sessions that will work for all people. It depends on your individual skin type and lifestyle. Many of our clients typically book around four sessions for mild scarring, spaced around six weeks apart, but further sessions may be required.
When will I see visible improvements from skin needling?
Visible improvement are usually seen around six weeks following treatment, with improvements occurring up to and beyond a year.
How long until I can return to work after receiving my scar treatment?
The amount of time you may need to take off work after scar treatment depends on many factors such as the nature of your skin and the therapy you receive. Your Victorian Dermal Group dermal technician will advise you on your specific circumstances.
What is acne scarring?
Acne scars are formed when the skin heals from inflamed blemishes. When pores in the skin are infected with bacteria, skin cells and excess oil, they swell, rupturing the follicle wall. If the inflammation is minor, the skin will heal quickly, while a larger inflammation can leave behind scarring.
Can my acne scarring be removed?
In general, acne scars can be removed with the correct treatment. Some treatments are more effective than others. We can determine which treatment is for you after our first consultation.
Our professional acne scar removal will improve your skin by eliminating scarring for good. Book a consultation to learn which treatment is right for you.
Can I receive multiple kinds of scar treatments?
Yes. The VDG team have done this in the past. Your dermal technician will be able to explore the right options with you.
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