Self harm scars. Getting married next year. How do I make them go away?? (photos)

Question

I am 26 and before the marks would go away. But last October when I did it, after I cut, the scars got dark, red and raised. I have tried kenalog shots, but it's a small difference it's making. I have got it done twice. I am scared the scars will sink in if I keep doing it, and I have some strange pinkish blue bruising. The scars are 5 months old and I am so desperate. I don't want to have these scars on the day of my wedding. I am not sure to try skin graphing, laser treatment, more shots??

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Begin with application of Plato's Scar Serum and pulsed dye laser to improve your scars. They may be permanent even after treatment. Best, Dr. KaramanoukianRealself100 Surgeon

Morris Westfried, MD · Answer

You need to test areas with different lasers and see reponse .Pulse dye laser works on red scars but will make it purple for a few days.The q switched used for tattoo removal can safely remove dark color and also works on red .The erbium reurfacing at a depth of 200 microns can lighten dark color and cause a new alter of skin to grow. I would suggest a consultation with a dermatolgsit who has different lasers available and do test spots,wait a month and then pick the best one.It will not go way completely but definitely can be improved.Also talk to someone about why you did this so you can work on your issues.

Self harm scars. Getting married next year. How do I make them go away?? (photos)

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