Great skin is a journey, not a
destination
Dr Eckstein
Scarring
Scarring can affect both skin texture and confidence. Whether caused by acne, injury, surgery, or inflammation, scars develop when the skin heals in an uneven or excessive way. While scars are permanent structural changes in the skin, their appearance can be significantly improved with the right treatment plan. At Dr Mélanin, we provide dermatologist-led scar treatment in Grays, specialising in safe and effective approaches for melanin-rich skin, where scarring often coexists with pigmentation changes.
A scar forms when the skin repairs itself after injury or inflammation. During healing, collagen is produced to close the wound. If too little collagen is produced, the result is a depressed or indented scar. If too much collagen is produced, the scar may become raised or thickened. Scars can vary in size, depth, and texture, and may appear lighter or darker than the surrounding skin. Different scar types require different treatment strategies.
Melanin-rich skin has a higher tendency toward post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and keloid formation. Even minor acne or skin trauma can leave long-lasting dark marks alongside textural scarring. Aggressive treatments can worsen pigmentation or trigger further scarring if not carefully selected. At Dr Mélanin, treatment protocols are tailored specifically for skin of colour, focusing on gradual collagen stimulation and inflammation control.
Frequently Asked Questions
Atrophic scars are indented scars that commonly develop after acne. These include ice pick scars (narrow and deep), boxcar scars (wider with defined edges), and rolling scars (broad depressions with soft edges). They occur when insufficient collagen is produced during healing.
Hypertrophic scars are raised but remain within the boundary of the original wound. Keloid scars extend beyond the original injury site and are more common in darker skin tones. They result from excessive collagen production during healing. Keloids can continue to grow over time and may require specific medical management.
Scar management is highly individualised and often requires combination therapy. Microneedling stimulates collagen production by creating controlled micro-injuries in the skin. Over time, this helps rebuild structural support beneath indented scars, improving skin texture and smoothness. When combined with other treatments like polynucleotides, results can be achieve quicker with additional benefits such as improvement in overall skin health. Multiple sessions are usually required for optimal results. When performed using appropriate depths and technique, microneedling is safe for darker skin tones.
Radiofrequency microneedling enhances collagen stimulation by delivering controlled heat into deeper layers of the skin. This can improve moderate to severe atrophic scars and overall skin tightening. Gradual improvement occurs over several months as new collagen forms.
Subcision is a minor procedure used to release tethered scars beneath the skin surface. It is particularly effective for rolling acne scars. This treatment may be combined with collagen-stimulating therapies for enhanced results. Subscision is classed as a surgical procedure which we do not currently offer at Dr Mélanin. We are working towards bringing these into our clinic in the near future!
Hypertrophic and keloid scars may be treated with carefully administered steroid injections to reduce thickness and inflammation. Early intervention improves outcomes and reduces recurrence risk. We do not currently offer treatment for hypertrophic or keloid scarring at Dr Mélanin but are working on bringing these into our treatment menu!
Topical treatments help support overall skin healing and reduce pigmentation associated with scars. Retinoids improve collagen turnover, while pigment-regulating ingredients address dark marks that often accompany scarring but it may be challenging to fully improve scarring without supportive in-clinic treatments.
Scar improvement is gradual and requires patience. Most patients require a series of treatments spaced several weeks apart. Noticeable changes often appear after three to six sessions, with continued improvement over several months. The depth, type, and age of the scar all influence treatment duration.
Scars cannot be completely erased, but their appearance can be significantly improved with appropriate treatment.
Most treatments involve topical numbing cream to ensure comfort. Mild swelling or tenderness may occur temporarily after procedures.
Yes, when performed by an experienced medical professional using appropriate protocols. Treatment selection is critical to avoid pigmentation changes.