Why does my white self-harm scar have red (I assume blood) dots in the center where the razor cut?

Question

Okay, so I used to self harm but recently stopped. I have multiple scars on the outside tissue of my right thigh. The scars are all white but some of them have red centers where the razor would have cut it. It’s been over a month so the wounds are all completely healed but the red centers are still there. Is it just because I cut deeper in those areas? Or is it a problem with the healing process?

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

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

This is difficult to answer without pictures. These may still be healing. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a cosmetic dermatologist for after care. I recommend Silagen + Bioshield to promote healing. Any scarring can be improved with lasers and microneedling/prp. I also suggest seeing an expert to help prevent further self-harm. Best, Dr. Emer

Yoel A. Rojas Ortiz, MD · Answer

Good to hear you have stopped self-harming yourself.
I also have to say it will be best to assess with pictures. What its clear is that since they are only 1 month old, they are still undergoing healing. During this period its a good idea to use topical options like Silicone (in sheet, gel, or cream form) to improve its appereance. The scar will undergo what its called “Scar Maturation and Remodeling Process”. This will take up to 1 year. It will be wise to avoid UV light exposure (Sun Exposure) during this period and to use topical Silicone (as mentioned above).  You can also perform scar massage. 
Yes, those bloody/red spots you mentioned located within the scar may be areas where the cuts were deeper, but its hard to tell without pictures.
If you dont see any improvement by 6 months, despite using Silicone, Sunscreen, and scar massage, then I will consider Lasers or PRP/Microneedling.
If you see improvement in those first 6 months, while using Silicone, Sunscreen, and scar massage, then I will wait for the full year before considering those other more invasive options (Lasers or PRP/Micorneedling).
Also watch for any increase in scar’s consistency, elevation (raised or not), width, and overall size. If it happens, it will be more compatible with a Keloid Scar and waiting along topical options would not be the best route.

Joseph Franzese, MD (license on probation) · Answer

Thank you for your question, and very happy to hear that you are healing and moving forward.  Cuts and scars go through a process of healing depending on the depth of the cut and what was used to make the cut.   I would recommend a consultation with a physician who can evaluate your cuts and make recommendations about improving healing.

Kristine Brecht, MD (license suspended) · Answer

I’m glad you stopped the damage to your body, and are ready to heal yourself!Scars can heal in many different ways. Depending on the depth of damage, scarring can heal an look differently.A consult is the first best step to figuring out what the best solution is.Best. Dr Brecht Seattle, WA

Why does my white self-harm scar have red (I assume blood) dots in the center where the razor cut?

Answers (5)

Answer: How Scars Heal

Answer: How Scars Heal

Answer: Scar healing

Answer: Scar healing

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Why does my white self-harm scar have red (I assume blood) dots in the center where the razor cut?

Answers (5)

Answer: How Scars Heal

Answer: How Scars Heal

Answer: Scar healing

Answer: Scar healing

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Scar Removal

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.