I was lightly touched by an exhaust pipe while I was riding a motorcycle. What can I do to make the scar lighten up? (photo)

Question

This happened about ten months ago. I did not get proper care for the burn and it has now left a scar.The scar has two parts. the outside healed pretty well with the skin being slightly discolored. However where there was blistering which is directly in the middle is still very dark. It has healed but I would like to know how to help the discoloration.

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

Beverly Johnson, MD (retired) · Answer

On this type of discoloration, ie where you still get alot of sun, it is going to be important to block the sun from making the dark portion darker!!! Contrary to popular myth, the sun wont even it out. In fact, it will do just the opposite.If you are not wearing long pants, you need to use sunscreen lotion on your legs. I would recommend La Roche Pousay SPF as high as you can find.At night, you can use a hydroquinone product available by prescription from you skin doctor.Hope this helps,\Dr Beverly Johnson

Elizabeth F. Rostan, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Scars that have brown or reddish color are often treated with lasers. The picture looks like you are dealing with brown discoloration.  I would recommend the Long Pulse Alexandrite  Gentellase followed by Fractional Non-Ablative Fraxel Dual
1927  in the same session, same day. Sometimes the Long Pulse Alexandrite  Gentelase alone works for discoloration.

I was lightly touched by an exhaust pipe while I was riding a motorcycle. What can I do to make the scar lighten up? (photo)

Answers (3)

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I was lightly touched by an exhaust pipe while I was riding a motorcycle. What can I do to make the scar lighten up? (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.