Injectables
There are many treatments for keloid and hypertrophic scar. In addition to corticosteroid injections many other chemotherapeutic agents have become popular as injectable anti-scarring agents.
Corticosteroid Therapy
Corticosteroid therapy has been commonly used for years to treat hypertrophic and keloid scars. Corticosteroids suppress inflammation, reduce collagen synthesis and inhibit cell proliferation; itch and thickness of scars is reduced. Corticosteroids can be given through injection, steroid tape or topically (by cream). Intralesional injections (injections into the scar) are common treatments for linear scars, hypertrophic scars and small keloids. Other treatments alongside corticosteroid therapy are often required for large keloids and thick hypertrophic scars.
Micro-Needling
Micro-needling is a semi-invasive technique that can be used on the face and body to achieve collagen induction (production). In this technique the skin or scar is pricked with needles to cause percutaneous collagen induction, this builds up connective tissue underneath retracted (contracted/stuck) or hypertrophic scars and wrinkles.
Pulsed Dye Laser (PDL)
The Pulsed Dye Laser (PDL) is a highly effective and low risk laser for the treatment of a wide range of vascular lesions. PDL releases brief pulses of selectively absorbed optical radiation which can cause selective damage to pigmented structures (blood vessels) and cells. The PDL is used to treat port-wine stains, facial telangiectasias and haemangioma. Newer PDLs with longer wavelengths and extended pulse durations have made deeper tissue penetration possible and improved clinical outcomes with reduced risk. PDL treatments are performed with a topical anaesthetic.
Non Ablative Fractional Laser (NAFL)
A Non-Ablative Fractional Laser (NAFL) is a non-wounding laser, it does not damage the integrity of your epidermis. NAFL uses a wavelength that does not evaporate the water in the tissue, and the energy from the laser heats the tissue in a controlled manner. Therefore, many patients prefer NAFL to ablative laser treatment. The rise in temperature stimulates the production of new collagen. By producing new collagen, the remodelling of the scar tissue is improved. Although NAFL is less invasive, requires less recovery time and has less complication risks, is not as effective as ablative laser resurfacing.