SCARS ARE NOTHING to be ashamed of. At some point in life, everyone will get one. Really, they’re right up there with death and taxes as one of life’s few certainties. They even serve an important role in the body’s natural healing process, acting as a natural band-aid for trauma-afflicted areas. But despite this, they can leave us feeling self-conscious.
Some of us want to minimise the appearance of scars, and that’s okay. Thankfully, a good scar cream can help you do exactly that by blending it in with your skin. But which scar creams actually work and which are just glorified makeup? That’s what we’re going to help you find out. But first, some background.
Why do scars form?
Scars form as part of the body’s natural healing process when the skin is injured. When the dermis (a deep layer of skin) is damaged, the body produces collagen fibres to repair the wound, creating a scar. Initially, scars can appear red, raised, and textured, but over time they can fade and flatten out naturally.
This brings us to the question: can scar creams actually alter this process?
Do scar creams really work?
The short answer is that it depends. Scar creams are not magic cures that will make scars completely disappear, but they can certainly improve their appearance and even aid in the healing process. The effectiveness of scar creams largely depends on the ingredients they use, how fresh the scar is and the severity of the scar being treated.
Many scar creams are designed to keep the skin hydrated and provide a protective barrier, which can help prevent excessive scar tissue from forming. Others might contain active ingredients that promote skin regeneration, reduce inflammation, and lighten hyperpigmentation. However, no scar cream can penetrate deep enough to completely eliminate a scar.
What are the ingredients you want in a good scar cream?
Scar creams typically contain a mix of moisturising, anti-inflammatory and regenerative ingredients. Silicone is one of the most effective ingredients for treating scars and has been shown to improve texture, colour and overall appearance. Allantoin is another common ingredient that is used for its soothing and hydrating properties. By softening and smoothing the skin, allantoin can make it feel less tight and promote cell regeneration. Vitamin E is also believed to aid in skin healing due to its antioxidant properties.
Which scars respond best to creams?
Scar creams tend to work best on new scars rather than old ones. For fresh scars, applying a cream regularly can help prevent them from becoming too raised or discoloured. Hypertrophic scars, which are raised and red, are often more responsive to treatment than atrophic scars (like pitted acne scars), which may require more intensive treatments like laser therapy or cortisone injections.
Are there alternatives to scar creams?
If you’re finding that scar creams aren’t providing the desired results, there are other treatments available. Laser therapy, chemical peels, microneedling and dermal fillers are all solid options, but consulting with a dermatologist is recommended for severe or stubborn scars.
What are the best scar creams?
Dermal Therapy Scar Treatment Silicone+ Gel
Dermal Therapy’s Scar Treatment Silicone+ Gel is an advanced solution for diminishing the appearance of both new and old scars. Using innovative Silicone+ technology, this gel combines a blend of silicones that work to soften, flatten and ultimately fade scars, leaving your skin looking smoother and more even. Enriched with essential vitamins and antioxidants, it not only promotes effective skin regeneration but also provides lasting hydration to enhance healing.
Dermal Therapy Silicone+ Scar Patch
Same deal as the above, with the same advanced silicone+ formulation. This time, it’s in the form of a patch rather than a gel. The end result remains the same.
Naydaya Scar Saviour
Naydaya Scar Saviour is designed to hydrate and rejuvenate the skin, helping reduce the appearance of scars and stretch marks. Its vegan formula is crafted with a blend of plant-based actives that work in synergy to promote skin restoration. Key ingredients include marshmallow root, which is rich in vitamin D and supports the skin’s natural antioxidants. The addition of liquorice root brings potent antioxidants and skin-soothing properties, making it effective in addressing uneven skin tone and texture.
H-Scars Formula
H-Scars Formula is a natural treatment designed specifically to support scar repair and skin restoration. Made with carefully selected homeopathic ingredients, this formula is applied directly to the scar for targeted effectiveness. Along with its homeopathic components, it also includes pure essential oils that work to nourish and rejuvenate the skin. H-Scars Formula is the all-natural option, if that’s your thing.
Strataderm Scar Therapy Silicon Gel
Strataderm Scar Therapy Silicone Gel is a fast-drying gel designed for both the prevention and treatment of scars, including keloids and hypertrophic scars. This transparent, non-sticky formula minimises scars while reducing the redness, discolouration, itching and discomfort associated with scar tissue.
DermaScar Classic
Another specialised silicone gel, the classic edition of DermaScar works by forming a clear, water-resistant barrier over scars. This silicone layer raises the temperature of the underlying skin, reducing water loss and increasing hydration in the scar tissue and surrounding areas. By improving skin hydration, DermaScar helps normalise the skin’s barrier function, which can signal the body to reduce its collagen production – again, this is a critical step in managing scar formation. By regulating collagen production, DermaScar helps scars become less noticeable and closer to the natural texture of the surrounding skin.
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