Will a Hypertrophic Scar Go Away? And How Long Does It Take?
If you have a scar that’s raised, red, or thick — and it’s not improving the way you expected — you might be wondering:
“Will this go away on its own?”
“Is it just a matter of time?”
“Or is there something wrong with the way it’s healing?”
At Natalia Mejia Skin, I meet many clients who feel stuck with a hypertrophic scar and don’t know whether to wait… or to take action.
Let’s talk about what a hypertrophic scar really is, how it evolves over time, and what you can do if it’s still affecting how you feel in your body.
What Is a Hypertrophic Scar?
A hypertrophic scar is a raised scar that forms when your body produces too much collagen during healing. It typically appears:
Thick and elevated
Red, pink, or dark brown depending on your skin tone
Along surgical lines (like tummy tucks, breast lifts, or C-sections)
Confined to the original wound’s borders
Unlike keloids, hypertrophic scars don’t grow beyond the injury site, which makes them easier to treat. Learn more about how to recognize hypertrophic scars and what makes them different.
So… Will It Go Away on Its Own?
✧ Yes… sometimes.
Hypertrophic scars often improve naturally, particularly within the first 12 to 18 months post-injury. You might notice:
Flattening
Softer texture
Fading of color
But not all scars follow this pattern. If your scar isn’t improving — or is even getting darker — it may need extra care.
When Time Isn’t Enough
Many clients come to me after waiting one or two years and say things like:
“I hoped it would go away, but it hasn’t.”
“It’s still thick and dark.”
✨ Some scars fade beautifully with time.
✨ Others plateau and remain firm or discolored.
✨ In darker skin, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation can make the scar appear worse over time.
In those cases, targeted scar revision treatments can make all the difference.
What Affects How a Scar Evolves?
Several factors can impact how your hypertrophic scar heals:
Your skin type and tone
Genetics
Scar location (joints, chest, or back tend to scar more)
Infection or delayed healing
Lack of hydration, scar care, or sun protection
Need help figuring out your next step? Schedule a consultation and I’ll evaluate your scar with compassion and care.
When to Start Treatment
You don’t need to wait a year.
At Natalia Mejia Skin, I begin treating hypertrophic scars around month four, once the wound has closed and the tissue is stable.
That’s early enough to make a difference — and gentle enough to support natural healing.
Can It Go Away Completely?
Yes — or very close.
With the right strategy, hypertrophic scars can be:
Flattened
Lightened
Softened
Blended with the surrounding skin
The goal isn’t perfection — it’s natural improvement that helps you feel more confident and at peace in your body.
How We Treat Hypertrophic Scars
At my studio, we follow a layered and respectful approach to healing. Your plan may include:
✨ Microneedling with regenerative serums
🌿 Topical treatments for pigment and hydration
💧 Peels to encourage renewal
⚡️ Plasma energy for cellular repair
🎨 Scar camouflage tattooing — but only after regeneration
We start by supporting the skin — not covering it. Once the foundation is healthy, we can begin advanced work like paramedical tattooing.
How Long to See Results?
Most clients see changes around session two or three.
In more complex cases (thicker or older scars), 10–12 sessions may be needed.
🕊️ The earlier we begin (around months 4–6), the faster and more effective the process tends to be.
Why Early Intervention Helps
Many people believe they have to wait — but starting earlier can:
Prevent collagen buildup
Calm inflammation
Minimize pigment issues
Ease tightness and discomfort
Shorten the overall process
We can assess your readiness in a safe and pressure-free consultation — even virtually.
What to Avoid with Hypertrophic Scars
🚫 Harsh acids or exfoliants
🚫 Skipping sunscreen
🚫 Rubbing or compressing the area
🚫 Using clogging or irritating oils
🚫 Wearing overly tight clothing
Proper care is just as important as professional treatments. I’ll guide you every step of the way.
Healing Takes Time — and Support
This isn’t a quick fix. But with patience and the right care, hypertrophic scars can change in visible, meaningful ways.
You may never return to “perfect” skin — but you can absolutely experience:
Smoother texture
Balanced tone
A restored sense of ease in your body
Your Scar Is Not a Mistake — It’s a Journey
Scar healing is physical, emotional, and personal.
At Natalia Mejia Skin, I’m here to walk beside you with:
Science-backed care
Artistic vision
Emotional understanding
You don’t have to wait and wonder anymore.
Let’s choose healing — together.
With love,
Natalia Mejia
Scar Specialist & Paramedical Tattoo Artist in NYC
✨ Scar Regeneration • Camouflage • Confidence Restored