Treating self-harm scars can be a sensitive and challenging process. Finding a place that understands your individual needs and offers a suitable approach to treatment or scar removal is pertinent. This self-care step is often important for many to move forward from difficult moments in their past. While various companies offer scar removal services, people with self-harm scars often seek a specialised clinic that is more sensitive and understanding of the complexity of this type of scar.
This article will outline what self-harm scars are, what treatments are available and how to find the right dermatologist or clinic based on your preferences.
What are self-harm scars?
Self-harm scars are marks left on the body from self-inflicted wounds. They are most commonly found on the arms and thighs.
Are they common?
Unfortunately, self-harm is not uncommon; one in ten people in England has self-harmed, and one in four experiences mental health problems each year. Therefore, having experienced these issues is, regrettably, normal. You will not be judged or have assumptions made about you when you approach a licensed dermatologist, as they are experienced in treating such scars.
What treatments are available?
There are many different methods of scar treatment, and many are extremely effective. Here are a few of the good-quality options and how they work:
Laser scar removal
- Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) laser treatment uses light energy to stimulate collagen, effectively and non-invasively reducing the appearance of scars.
- Collagen induction therapy with Radio Frequency (RF) stimulates collagen production by pricking open the skin and heating it with radiofrequency. This renews the skin’s surface, improving scar appearance and texture.
- CO₂ laser resurfacing uses advanced fractional CO₂ lasers to target and soften scar tissue and promote healthy skin cell regeneration.
Exfoliation or skin peel
- Advanced diamond dermabrasion is a skin resurfacing procedure where a medical professional removes the top layer of skin to encourage new cell growth and collagen production, improving scarring.
- Derma White treatment is a noninvasive, herbal skin peel designed to treat pigmented self-harm scars. Its herbal blend of vitamins and enzymes makes it suitable for sensitive skin.
What are the different approaches?
Beyond the types of treatments, you may also want to consider the emotional approach of the dermatologist or treatment centre. There are two main approaches dermatologists might take, depending on the client’s preferences:
- For some, it may be important for the dermatologist to engage with your individual experience before the procedure so you can feel more comfortable. Often, this group may feel vulnerable when exposing their scars. As a result, they may require more compassion and mutual understanding throughout treatment.
- For others, you may prefer to avoid discussing any emotional or mental ties to the scars and simply receive treatment to reduce their appearance. This is completely fine; these are trained professionals who are confident in treating scars gently and effectively.
What’s right for you?
The best way to make a decision is to break down the different aspects to consider.
- First, consider which treatment seems most suitable for your type of scars. For example, laser treatment will be more effective for deeper or darker scars, while peels are quicker and more effective for scars with hyperpigmentation.
- Next, consider the approach you would prefer the dermatologist to take. This doesn’t have to be a snap decision; you can take your time to decide what works best for you.
- Finally, research dermatologists who specialise in self-harm scar removal in an area convenient for you. Clinics with a specific focus will often outline their approach and you can inquire with any questions to ensure the place is right for you.
Why not opt for scar removal?
The decision can be difficult, but for many, undergoing a scar removal treatment is life-changing. You can feel, at least in part, free from a potentially very difficult time in your life. These procedures can be transformative, so why not prioritise yourself and do this for your own wellbeing?