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FDA Approved Scar Treatments

Scars can pop up from a variety of things. Acne, abrasions and surgeries traumatize the skin. Scars are the leftover marks after your body has healed. Time fades scars naturally, but there are medically advanced ways to speed the process. FDA-approved scar treatments can help your skin repair itself and minimize the appearance of the scar.

  1. Surgery

    • The Federal Food and Drug Administration has approved surgeries that relieve the appearance of scars. Plastic surgeons perform these operations on the skin after injuries, other surgeries, and on severe or cystic acne scars. Scar revision surgery can include artificial skin, skin grafts from other parts of the body, or removal of scarred tissue. People with skin conditions surrounding a scar are usually ineligible for scar-revision surgery.

    Lasers

    • Certain lasers are FDA-approved for scar treatment. These lasers may only be administered by licensed, practicing physicians. Columns of microscopic laser light injure the skin just below the surface of the scar. The body produces collagen and elastin in response to these minor injuries, reducing the appearance of the scar. Lasers are be used for other applications, too, such as producing younger-looking skin.

    Creams

    • Some creams might reduce the appearance of scars. FDA-approved, over-the-counter options include vitamin E, onion extract or silicone, but clinical studies do not support their efficacy.

      Prescription creams work better. Tretinoin is an extremely strong application of vitamin A and synthetics. The topical form is sold as Retin-A. The FDA approves its use for scars related to acne, but it might increase some of your acne symptoms first.

    Dermabrasion

    • Dermabrasion is a refinishing treatment that can help polish away scars. It is FDA-approved when administered by a licensed physician, such as a plastic surgeon. The process involves finely scraping away layers of skin cells to reveal the smooth skin underneath. If you have underlying or surrounding skin conditions, dermabrasion is too rough for you.

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