What is the best way to get rid of this scar from a face scratch? (Photo)

Question

I got this scar a few years ago and I absolutely hate it. I've tried Q-switch and Pico lasers but it hasn't made as much of a difference as I wanted. how can I get rid of this scar? I got it from a face scratch

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Facial scratch scars are actually very common, and the good news is that most of them improve quite a bit with the right approach—especially depending on how old the scar is and whether it’s still red, brown, or already white and settled.

The most important factor: what stage the scar is in
If it’s still red or pink → this is an active healing phase, and we can often improve it significantly
If it’s brown → more of a pigment issue, which responds well to light-based treatments
If it’s white or indented → more structural, meaning we focus on collagen remodeling
What usually works best

For most scratch scars, I typically start conservatively and build up:

1. Silicone gel or silicone sheets

Simple but surprisingly effective in early scars
Helps flatten and soften texture over time

2. Sun protection (very important)

Sun exposure can make scars darker and more noticeable
Daily SPF is non-negotiable if you want it to fade well

3. Topical treatments

Retinoids or gentle prescription creams can help smooth texture gradually
Helps with both tone and long-term remodeling
In-office options (if it’s more noticeable)

Depending on how it looks in person:

Laser treatments (like vascular or fractional lasers) for redness or texture
Microneedling to stimulate collagen and smooth unevenness
Light chemical peels if there’s leftover discoloration
Occasionally small steroid injections if it’s raised
My honest take

Most scratch scars on the face fade significantly over time, especially within the first 6–12 months. The key is not doing too much too early, but rather guiding the skin so it heals evenly.

If I were treating this, I’d tailor it based on whether your main concern is color, texture, or both, because that completely changes the plan.

In many cases, with consistent care, these scars become barely noticeable over time, even without aggressive treatment.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

I would treat this scar with a combination of pulsed dye laser, thulium fractional laser, fractional erbium laser, and topical skin modulation. Moisturize the skin with a ceramide cream (Elevase) or similar treatment.

Best,
Dr, Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Best, 
Dr, Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

First, let me say that I am not surprised at all at the failure of the laser gizmos. Unfortunately, the hard science to support the use of these expensive "bells and whistles" devices lags well behind the heavy marketing and social media buzz that surrounds them. 
At least from the photo provided, it appears that the scar is Indented and somewhat Hypopigmented. If so, then Subcision, which I have been routinely performing since 1995, can be used to elevate and smooth the scar and Dermastamp manual microneedling (no need for the added expense and risks of RF microneedling gizmos) can be performed to better blend any residual, superficial color and texture irregularities with the surrounding normal skin. You would be wise to consult an experienced, board certified cosmetic dermatologist and best of luck.

What is the best way to get rid of this scar from a face scratch? (Photo)

Answers (3)

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