Understanding Hypertrophic Scars: Causes, Prevention, and Effective Treatment Options

Hypertrophic scars are a common concern for individuals healing from surgery or injury. They are characterized by an overgrowth of scar tissue that remains within the original wound boundaries but rises above the surrounding skin. In this article, we’ll explore the nature of hypertrophic scars, how they develop, and most importantly, how we can help you improve their appearance at Natalia Mejia Skin.

What is a Hypertrophic Scar?

A hypertrophic scar occurs when the body produces excess collagen during the wound-healing process, causing the scar to become raised, red, and firm. Unlike keloid scars, which extend beyond the boundaries of the original wound, hypertrophic scars remain confined but can still cause aesthetic and, sometimes, physical discomfort.

This type of scar typically forms once the wound has closed and continues to develop for “6 to 12 months” after the injury or surgery, potentially lasting up to 2 years. Several factors may influence the formation of hypertrophic scars, including age, anatomical location, the origin of the wound, and the presence of infections during the healing process. When a wound becomes infected, it increases inflammation, leading to more collagen production and a higher likelihood of developing hypertrophic scarring.

Preventing Hypertrophic Scars

While the development of hypertrophic scars is not always avoidable, several preventative measures can help minimize their severity:

1. Gentle Massaging Techniques

   Applying gentle massage techniques can help reduce adhesions and improve the mobility of the skin once the inflammation has subsided. It’s important to adapt the massage intensity to the stage of inflammation. Massages that are too intense may worsen the scar or cause discomfort, and infection is a contraindication for massage therapy.

2. Skin Mobilization

   Skin mobilization can help decrease the tension on a scar. This involves gently stretching the skin around the scar using your fingers, which can help improve the flexibility and appearance of the scar. This technique should be performed once the inflammation has reduced to avoid further irritation.

3. Reducing Tension with Adhesive Strips

   Tension on the skin can lead to hypertrophic scarring. To prevent this, using adhesive strips or Steristrips after suture removal can help reduce tension on the scar. This approach limits the tension that might otherwise cause excessive collagen production. Keeping the wound supported in this way during the first year of healing can significantly improve scar outcomes.

4. Sun Protection

   Excessive exposure to the sun’s rays can cause hypertrophic scars to darken due to increased melanin production. Applying sunscreen to the scar, even after it has healed, is crucial in minimizing discoloration and keeping the scar from becoming more noticeable.

5. Hydration and Moisture Retention

   Using moisturizers and occlusive dressings can help retain moisture in the skin, which is especially beneficial for itchy scars. Hydrating products like mineral oils, fatty acids, silicone oils, and wax esters can preserve skin moisture and soften the scar tissue. Ingredients like urea and lactic acid can also help condition and soften the skin, reducing abnormal scar tissue formation.

How We Treat Hypertrophic Scars at Natalia Mejia Skin

We offer specialized treatments designed to reduce the appearance of hypertrophic scars by improving the scar's color and texture. Our approach includes:

• Specialized Needling: We use a precise needling technique at the appropriate depth to stimulate collagen production and encourage skin regeneration. This technique helps flatten raised scars and improve their overall appearance.

• Regenerative Cells: We combine needling with regenerative cell treatments to enhance the natural healing process and further improve the texture of the scar.

• Peels: Various chemical and organic peels are used in conjunction with needling and regenerative therapies to reduce inflammation and help even out the color of the scar. These peels work to smooth the skin and promote the development of healthier skin tissue.

We aim to provide a comprehensive, non-invasive approach to scar improvement, helping you feel confident in your skin again.

Hypertrophic scars can be challenging, but they are manageable with the proper care and treatment. At Natalia Mejia SKIN in NYC, we specialize in helping clients improve their scars through tailored treatments that address the color and texture of hypertrophic scars. If you want to reduce the appearance of a hypertrophic scar, we invite you to contact us for a consultation. Together, we’ll develop a personalized treatment plan to meet your specific needs and help you achieve the best possible results.