How to reduce appearance of forehead scar? (Photo)

Our office has many different treatments for scars depending on the depth of atrophy or hypertrophy. Scars require a combination approach using our HI DEF protocol which uses a combination of lasers, topical scar modulation, and RF treatments to pixelate scars, improve contour, reduce hyperpigmentation, and improve the visibility of the scars so that they are no longer visible in ambient light. Everyone has a unique pattern of scarring and we employ our HIDEF technique to improve texture, color, contour, and topography. We often use a combination of treatments that begin with a careful examination to examine the micro texturing of the acne scars. Atrophic scars and indented scars can benefit from injectable fillers such as Radiesse, Sculptra, and Restylane with or without subcision to remove tethered scars and atrophic depression. Hyper-redness in scars can be improved with V beam laser, Excel V, BBL, IPL, and Venus RF to improve the redness and reduce the visibility of deep scars. Fractional Thulium laser and clear & brilliant can also reduce the inflammation and redness of the scar when combined with topical therapy. Fractional lasers such as Fraxel, erbium, and CO2 laser can be combined with radio frequency and also fractional RF to improve textual issues and microtopography. Subcision and TCA cross are also used for deep ice pick scars and narrow valley scars in order to improve the micro texture. Above all, our combination approach with our clinical nurses and board-certified plastic surgeons can improve the quality of your skin by using at home Melarase creams combined with PRP treatments in our office to improve your skin quality and tone. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with an experienced team of experts in order to reduce your scarring.


Finally, hyperpigmentation of scars can be improved with at-home Melarase AM, Melarase PM, and Melapads to help reduce active PIH and melanin deposition.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Treatments like microneedling or laser can help smooth and fade forehead scars over time. For the best recommendation, call your nearest SkinMD location to schedule a free consultation so we can assess the scar and create a personalized treatment plan for you.

At least from the photo, it would appear that professionally performed, manual, mechanical microneedling (no need for the added expense and risks of RF microneedling) can be helpful for blending the scar better with the surrounding normal skin. You would be wise to consult with an experienced, board certified cosmetic dermatologist scar treatment specialist. Hope this helps and best of luck.

Hi there,

Thank you for sharing your photo and story — I can imagine how this scar has been a source of frustration for you, especially since it’s in such a visible area. The good news is that even older scars can often be improved significantly with the right approach.

From what I can see, the scar appears to be flat but slightly darker than the surrounding skin, which is common in post-traumatic scars. Treatment depends on the scar’s color, texture, and depth, but there are a few effective options to help smooth and fade it over time:

Topical treatments: Silicone gel or silicone sheets can soften and flatten scars over consistent use. Lightening creams with ingredients like azelaic acid, kojic acid, or hydroquinone can also help even out pigmentation.

Procedures: For more visible improvement, microneedling, laser resurfacing, or chemical peels can stimulate collagen production and refine skin texture.

Sun protection: Daily SPF use is crucial — UV exposure can make the scar more noticeable or darker over time.

Since you’re still young, your skin has great regenerative potential, and with a tailored plan, the scar’s appearance can become much less noticeable. It may not disappear completely, but it can blend in beautifully with your natural skin tone and texture.