What can I do about a cat scratch scar? (photos)

Question

My cat scratched me last week. I scar easily and I’m pretty sure this will be another scar that won’t go away. I use neosporin when it was healing and now I am alternating between silicon gel and mederma. Anything else I can do? I’ve been told that lasers are not good with my skin tone in the past when I had an consultation for my skin spots.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our treatments use combination therapy to improve the epidermis and dermis for most deep scars. The options available for acne scars depend on the character of your scars, in terms of topography and contour. We see atrophic and hypertrophic acne scars, as well as scars that have hypo and hyperpigmentation. We begin each scar evaluation with an assessment of scar quality and subtype. Our main concern is rebuilding collagen and that is why we use a HIDEF protocol that includes combination therapy. Morpheus 8, scar subcision, fibrous release, fractional laser, CO2 laser, Thulium laser, PDL Vbeam laser, and fractional resurfacing can be used in addition to TCA Cross and chemical peels to further improve skin. Patients should start Melarase AM and Melarase PM for active hyperpigmentation. Always begin with a consultation to decide whether early subcision should be started.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

​​I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a cosmetic dermatologist for after care. I recommend Silagen + Bioshield to promote healing. Scars like these can generally be improved with lasers (BBL, ProYellow, Excel V, VBeam) and microneedling with PRP. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer​

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello @Beautiful510551 thank you for your question. A Consultation is the best way to find out what you need, there are several options to diminish the scar through non-surgical treatments to manage a scar process. Technologies: laser, fixer, other products or substances. However, the specialist needs to evaluate each case to give you the best course of action. Best wishes!!!

Jeff Rapaport, MD · Answer

Since this is a new scar, treatment should be helpful. Continue the silicone gel and Mederma.  Consider adding a 0.3 mm micro needle roller. You can utilize this once daily.  Roll in 2 directions With a total of 4 passes. It appears that you are starting to get hyperpigmentation. Adding a bleaching cream would be helpful. If you don't see improvement, go to a scar expert. The key is to treat while the scar is fresh.
Jeff Rapaport MD FAAD 
Realself Hall of Fame

What can I do about a cat scratch scar? (photos)

Answers (4)