How to treat my arm? (Photo)

Question

Scars come from skin picking an infection. The redness really bothers me and it's hard to conceal with makeup. How can I optimize the appearance of the scars, evening the skin tone and pigment specially?

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

Improving the appearance of scars caused by skin picking and infection involves consistent care and patience. Here are some general suggestions:

1. **Keep the area clean:** Gentle cleansing with mild soap and water can help prevent infections.

2. **Moisturize:** Regularly moisturize the scarred area to promote healing and reduce dryness.

3. **Sun protection:** Protect scars from the sun to prevent pigmentation changes. Use sunscreen or cover the area with clothing.

4. **Topical treatments:** Consult with a dermatologist about using over-the-counter or prescription creams containing ingredients like vitamin E, silicone, or alpha hydroxy acids, which may help with scar appearance.

5. **Scar massage:** Gentle massaging of the scar may improve blood circulation and help break down scar tissue.

6. **Silicone sheets or gels:** These products may help flatten and reduce the redness of scars.

7. **Consult a dermatologist:** For more intensive treatments, such as laser therapy or steroid injections, a dermatologist can provide personalized advice based on your specific scars.

Best of luck !

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Fractional laser is an amazing and highly effective treatment in our office. We use the laser treatment to help with acne scars, large pores, fine wrinkles, tissue collagen loss, scars, sebaceous hyperplasia, active acne, and for brightening dark pigmentation. Although there are very strong fractional lasers such as CO2 laser, we use lighter treatments for corrective skincare and maintenance of results. Our Thulium fractional laser, clear and brilliant laser, and Ultra Thulium laser are excellent options in our clinic. We also perform CO2 fractional and erbium depending on skin tone and tolerance for downtime. Patients do have to use a Melarase cream before and after treatment to help further reduce pigmentation after laser. Dark spots can improve with these treatments. I recommend fractional laser for incisional scars as well, especially after plastic surgery.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

You can consider Skin Pen microneedling to improve the appearance of scars.  Another option is Morpheus8 which combines RF technology with the microneedling for improvement.  See a board certified plastic surgeon for an evaluation to learn more.

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