A scar is a mark left on the skin after a wound or injury has healed. It’s the result of the body’s natural healing process, where the skin fibroblasts produce a protein called collagen to close the wound.
Why do scars look and feel different?
- Collagen Architecture: When our skin gets injured, the body rapidly produces collagen to heal the wound. This new collagen has a different, more linear structure than the randomly organized collagen in uninjured skin, leading to the characteristic appearance of scars.
- Lack of Skin Appendages: Scars often lack hair follicles, sweat glands, and sebaceous (oil) glands, making them look and feel different from the surrounding skin.
- Blood Vessel Differences: Scars may have fewer blood vessels than uninjured skin, which can make them look paler.
Fun Facts:
- Types of Scars: Not all scars are the same. They can be flat, lumpy, sunken, colored, or even itchy or painful. Their appearance can depend on factors like genetics, skin type, and the location and cause of the injury.
- Scar Maturation: Over time, most scars tend to become flatter, softer, and paler, although they may never disappear completely.
- Sun and Scars: Sun protection is vital for scars! Sun exposure can cause scars to become darker and more noticeable. This darkening can be permanent, so always ensure you’re applying sunscreen to your scars.
Always remember, while scars are a testament to our body’s incredible ability to heal, it’s essential to care for wounds and scars appropriately to ensure the best cosmetic outcome.
Stay tuned for our next “Ever Wonder Why?” blog, where we’ll delve deeper into the mysteries of our skin and the realm of dermatology.
Share this Article
Brandon Kirsch, MD, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist specializing in clinical drug development and medical innovation. He is the founder of Kirsch Dermatology in Naples, Florida and is also the Chief of Dermatology at the Naples Community Hospital.