Cat scratches scar - what can be done to help remove them or minimize them? (Photo)

Question

Hello, I was attacked by my cat on August 2024, and he has left scratches over my right arm and legs. It's been 4 months now and the progress of my healing is very slow. I don't know what sort of topical or treatments I can do to help speed the process of scar removal. The dotted scars are bumpy. Skin type ethnic background: Middle eastern

Chet Mays, MD · Answer

Thank you for your inquiry! Scar creams can be used on scars to minimize appearance as well as silicone scar sheets. Lasers such as Microneedling can also be performed to minimize appearance as well. We would love to see you in person or virtually to discuss treatment options or schedule a consult with a licensed aesthetician.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

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

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

I'm sorry to hear about your experience with the cat scratches. There are several approaches you can consider to help minimize the appearance of scars and improve healing. Since it's been four months, the scars are likely in the maturation phase, and there are both topical treatments and procedures that can be effective:

Topical Treatments:

Silicone Gel or Sheets: These are often recommended for scar management as they can help flatten and soften scars over time.
Hydrating Creams and Ointments: Products containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, or allantoin can help moisturize the skin and improve the appearance of scars.
Sunscreen: Protecting the scars from sun exposure is crucial, as UV rays can darken scars and make them more noticeable. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30.
Over-the-Counter Products:

Scar Creams: Products like Mederma or those containing onion extract are commonly used for scar treatment.
Exfoliating Agents: Creams with alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or retinoids can promote skin cell turnover and improve skin texture.
Professional Treatments:

Laser Therapy: Fractional laser treatments can help reduce scar texture and pigmentation.
Microneedling: This procedure can stimulate collagen production and improve the appearance of scars.
Chemical Peels: These can help improve skin texture and reduce pigmentation associated with scars.
Corticosteroid Injections: For raised scars, these can help flatten them over time.
Natural Remedies:

Aloe Vera Gel: Known for its soothing properties, aloe vera can help with healing.
Honey: Its natural moisturizing and healing properties might aid in scar reduction.
Since you have a Middle Eastern skin type, it's important to be cautious with treatments that might cause pigmentation changes. Consulting with a dermatologist is recommended to tailor a treatment plan specific to your skin type and scar characteristics.

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