Scar formation is a natural part of the healing process and occurs when the skin repairs wounds caused by accident, surgery or disease. The more the skin is damaged, the longer it takes to heal and the greater the chance of a noticeable scar.
The way a scar forms is affected by age, location and certain genetic factors. Younger skin is more susceptible to over-development when healing, resulting in larger, thicker scars. Initially a scar can appear red and thick and then may gradually fade over time.
The rebuilt collagen fibres (see illustration) do not only change the skin visually: parts of skin with scar-tissue are limited in functionality (no hairs and sweat glands) and movement.
Dermatix® has been shown to soften, flatten and reduce discoloration.
Dermatix® can be used as soon as the wound has healed to decrease the visibility of a scar.
What influences scar formation?
Age
Although keloids can occur at any age, they are most likely to occur between the ages of 10 and 30 years. [1]
Genetic factors – skin type
People with highly pigmented skin, are especially prone to abnormal scars, such as Keloids [1]
Scar location
If a scar is located over a joint, then the movement of that joint will cause a scar to stretch. The result is a scar that widens over time. A wide scar is more visible than one that is thin.
Hormonal influences
Scars tend to develop larger during pregnancy and puberty. [1]
