How to treat 10+ y/o cold sore scars on upper lip (vermillion border)? (Photos)

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

You could have cosmetic, not artistic tattooing in the area, but be on treatment for Herpes before treatment and continue after treatment to avoid a flare up and more scarring.

Thank you for your question and photographs. It's difficult to evaluate your skin through this type of forum, but from what I can see, it looks like hypopigmentation (white blemishes). It's very difficult to regain pigment, but medical tattooing is a new treatment option and results are promising. I highly recommend you research and consult with a medical tattoo artist in your area for more information. Take care and good luck.