2nd Degree burn from cigarette: will it stay red or fade over time? (Photo)

Question

Hello! I have small burns on my wrist from a cigarette burn about a month and a half ago. The skin is no longer raw and shiny, but it's healing to a dark/bright red. How long until the scar fades and blends in to my skin. Can I expect drastic fading or will it stay this bright red?

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

Michael Kulick, MD, DDS · Answer

It looks like your scar is more brown than red from the picture provided. There are many things you can do now to optimize the appearance. There are topical creams, IPL, etc but this process can take many months. Better to have a consultation now. Sincerely,

Michael Kulick MD

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Member of ASPS, ASAPS
   Recipient of the Klingbeil Award from ASAPS – Teaching Safe Techniques and Advanced Technologies

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a cosmetic dermatologist for after care. I recommend Silagen + Bioshield to promote healing. Scars like these can generally be improved with lasers (ProYellow, Excel V, VBeam) and microneedling with PRP. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

2nd Degree burn from cigarette: will it stay red or fade over time? (Photo)

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2nd Degree burn from cigarette: will it stay red or fade over time? (Photo)

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Scar Removal

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