What is the best scar removal treatment?

The goal should be to minimize the appearance of the scar rather than scar removal.

Using sunscreen or sun avoidance is crucial. One thing that has not been mentioned is early intervention to inhibit the inflammatory process with the use of class IV medical lasers. Current research suggests that this will possibly lead to favorable outcomes in the healing process, less tissue atrophy, and an overall improved appearance.

If the scar is a surgical scar - one must make certain that the surgeon has approved this form of treatment inasmuch as you are still under his/her care for six months post-surgery. Talk to your practitioner about whether or not this would be a good option.

If you have a history of bad scars, you must tell your surgeon. Ideally, your surgeon will use techniques to minimise scarring and place them in inconspicuous sites that won’t be too visible. After surgery, keeps scars away from sunshine until they have faded and moisturise scars regularly.

Again, there are many excellent products available; but in general, I reserve the use of these products if there are any problems developing or any concerns regarding the normal healing process. Most scars will settle down and fade with time.

A couple of basic principles are moisturizing and massaging the scars to keep them soft and avoidance of direct sun exposure to any scars. Sunblock should be applied to scars even if they have covered with clothing, as the SPF factor of most clothing is extremely low. For example, the SPF factor of a white cotton T-shirt is less than 10.

For the first ten days after surgery, keep the scar moist with bactroban antibiotic ointment. Then for the next six months, avoid sunlight and wear sunscreen.