Scarring is a natural phenomenon, but the traces it leaves can create complexes. Researchers at Shimane University School of Medicine in Japan are working on methods to reduce the appearance of hypertrophic scars after an injury. They publish their results in the journal Burns & Trauma.
Sometimes abnormal scarring
After a wound or burn, the healing process begins naturally so that the lesion closes. First, the cells of the epidermis will cleanse the area and then rebuild the tissues using collagen and blood vessels. In some cases, this process is disrupted and scarring hypertrophic can form. They are the result of an overproduction of collagen, which results in an abnormal scar volume. According to the researchers, it is difficult to estimate the frequency of this type of scarring: it can affect up to 94% of post-operative cases. Certain factors can increase the risks, including age, genetic predisposition or the size and depth of the injury.
Several healing techniques
Pressotherapy is one of the main ways to prevent the appearance of hypertrophic scars. It relies on wearing compression garments day and night. It must be put in place within two months of the injury or surgery and generally lasts several months.
The researchers studied the effectiveness of several other techniques, including the laser. According to them, there is sufficient evidence of its effectiveness when used early: it would accelerate the shrinkage of the scar. Another technique is to remove excess skin, applying creams in parallel. According to the research team, the effectiveness varies according to the type of scar. As for botox, Japanese scientists emphasize that while it seems to have positive effects on the prevention of scars, there remains uncertainty about the dosage necessary for such use.
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