This type of scar is similar to Keloid scars in that it is caused by excessive amounts of collagen that contribute to a raised and puffy scar. Hypertrophic scars most often occur with cuts, burns, acne or body piercing. They are characterized by a red color and can become itchy and even painful. The difference between this and Keloid scars is that Hypertrophic scars don’t spread beyond the injury.
Hypertrophic scars develop over weeks after the initial injury. As time passes, they can start to clear up naturally. This depends on what type of injury it is and can take as long as a year to clear up. The injuries that cause these scars affect deep layers of skin tissue. The excess collagen that forms is the result of the body trying to repair the skin.
These scars may clear up over time, but some are not willing to endure having these blemishes on their body for the extended period of time that it sometimes take to heal. There are some non-invasive treatments in the form of various creams and gels on the market that promise to promote collagen growth and help the scar heal quicker.
If non-invasive treatments do not clear up hypertrophic scars fast enough, you can opt for invasive therapies like Laser Therapy, Radiotherapy, surgery or injected steroids. Although, you should think of surgery as a final option because it could cause a new scar that takes even longer to heal.
