The Best Ways to Treat Old and New Scars, According to Top Doctors

Mix Modalities

“We start laser therapy on scars no later than six weeks after the injury. The Cutera Excel V is great for treatment. Then, depending on how the scar presents itself after treatment, we could finish with a pico laser, like PicoLO, or microneedling. The same treatments work for scars that have been around longer.”

WM. Philip Werschler, MD
Spokane, WA Dermatologist

Avoid The Sun

“Early intervention is extremely important for optimizing scars, but avoiding excess sun exposure is number one. Sun exposure can lead to darkening of the scar, which can cause hyperpigmentation and make it harder to erase.”

Jeffrey B. Wise, MD
Wayne, NJ Facial Plastic Surgeon

Patience Is Key

“The first step to a healed scar is an incision that traces along the natural skin lines. Postoperatively, or postinjury, massage the scar daily to promote elasticity. While extremely difficult for the patients, patience is key. Rushing to treat a scar can often worsen the problem.”

Leo R. McCafferty, MD
Pittsburgh Plastic Surgeon

Identify Your Scar Type

“For dark scars, lightening products plus a laser for brown pigment, such as Picosure or BBL, are effective. For red, vascular scars, a VBeam laser can be used. To treat elevated scars, we inject a steroid solution and use silicone products. Lastly, I recommend retinoids paired with Profractional or Morpheus lasers followed by PRP to remodel the scar tissue.”

Jody Levine, MD
New York Dermatologist

Use Scar Cream

“I recommend using a scar cream 10 to 14 days after surgery, when wound contraction begins to occur. Skinuva Scar Cream ($80) has many scientifically proven ingredients, such as silicone cream, centella asiatica and vitamin C. Scar creams like this one are made to be used on all skin types and all parts of the body.”

Chris Zoumalan, MD
Beverly Hills, CA Oculoplastic Surgeon