The Truth About Scars: Myths Debunked
When the human body is injured, the wound heals gradually over time. Although small injuries will generally return to normal, a larger wound will result in some level of scarring. This occurs because the dermis becomes damaged. Although collagen fibers are created to repair the damage, it is not enough to prevent a scar. Afterwards, the affected skin ends up feeling and looking different than the surrounding tissue.
How Can Scars Be Treated?
Scarring from a C-section or a surgery can be treated depending on the extent of the scarring. Often, topical products that contain cocoa butter, shea butter or vitamin E can reduce the appearance of the scar. When this is not possible, dermabrasion, steroid injections, surgery, radiotherapy or laser resurfacing may be used. Since more intense treatments often carry side effects, the first treatment step should always be to try out topical creams or lotions. Although the process of scar creation and treatment is well known, there are still numerous myths that pervade popular culture about scarring.
Myth: You Have
to Have Expensive Laser Treatments Although laser resurfacing reduces the appearances of scars, it comes with a hefty price tag. Instead of resorting to an over-priced option, individuals can check out one of the many effective over-the-counter products available. Applying basic Vaseline, honey or vitamin E as the wound heals can prevent the incidence of scarring. In addition, topical products for scarring offer noticeable improvements for a small fraction of the cost of laser treatments.
Myth: You Cannot Treat Old Scars
Old scars change color and appearance over time, but they are still structurally similar to new scars. When it comes to alleviating old scars, the treatment options are just as effective as they are against newer scars.
Myth: Tanning Makes Scars Go Away
Going tanning will actually make silver stretch marks and lighter scars more noticeable. Scars do not tan, so this technique only serves to damage the rest of the dermis. If the scar is darker than the surrounding skin, tanning will make it appear to blend in better. Although it might look less noticeable, the scar will still be there.
Myth: Scars From C-Sections Last Forever
A C-section scar does not have to last forever. Even without using a scar treatment, the surgery scar will naturally start to heal on its own. Drinking plenty of water, eating a balanced diet and using the right scar treatment creams can speed the process.
Myth: Eating Healthy and Drinking Water Will Not Affect Stretch Marks and Scarring
In reality, drinking plenty of water helps to hydrate the skin. This allows the elasticity of the skin to increase, which fades scars. Eating a balanced diet is effective because nutrients like vitamin C, protein and zinc help the skin to rejuvenate and produce collagen. As a result, the skin feels smoother, firmer and more elastic.
