A scar is the result of tissue regeneration in the body following injury or surgery. This process involves the intervention of collagen, a fibrous protein produced by the body which constitutes the intracellular substance of connective tissue, a supporting tissue which aims to protect the organs it surrounds. By filling in the surface of the cut, collagen helps bring the fibers of the skin together. 

Scars can be white and easily fade over time. They can also be “vicious”: in this case, their appearance can be unsightly and unpleasant. Among the vicious scars are keloids which are dilated and can spread; they result in particular from a protuberance of the dermis located under the epidermis. There are also hypertrophic scars that appear when the wound is exposed to a foreign body. They are swollen and red and can be itchy.

Factors that influence scar healing

A scar will never be the same from person to person. Several factors influence the speed and degree of healing.

• The age

Children’s cells regenerate faster than those of adults: their lesions are therefore not always repaired aesthetically. The wounds of the elderly, on the other hand, heal more slowly but more clearly, due to a decrease in collagen production.

• Nutritional status

Deficiencies in certain vitamins, especially vitamin C and vitamin E, can increase the risk of vicious scars. This is why it is advisable to consume foods that contain these vitamins as well as zinc because they help in healing.

• Skin pigmentation

Skin with low pigmentation heals better than dark skin.

• The location of the scar

Scars located on the joints often heal less well because they are under the pressure of movement.

• Infections

If the wound is not properly disinfected, bacteria can get lodged there which will infect the lesion. This phenomenon can cause abnormal and unsightly healing.

• Blood flow

Inadequate blood circulation increases the risk of poor healing because tissue will have a harder time repairing itself.