Facial Scars: Why Topical Treatments May Not Work?

Facial scars are a common concern that, while they may not cause physical pain, can significantly affect one’s confidence in social situations. Many people opt for topical scar treatments due to their affordability compared to other procedural methods. However, these treatments often show little improvement even after prolonged use. So, are there faster and more effective ways to address facial scars? What options provide the best results? Bin Haider Clinic has the answers.

What Causes Facial Scars?

Facial scars often result from accidents or surgical procedures performed on the face. When a wound forms, the body initiates the healing process by producing collagen to create new tissue while increasing blood flow to the affected area. This process can lead to raised scars. Over time, as collagen production and blood flow subside, the scar may gradually flatten and fade.

Types of Facial Scars

• Common Scars:
  These scars appear red or dark and raised above the skin’s surface. Over approximately two years, they may lighten in color but leave visible traces. Some individuals may also experience itching around the scar area.

• Keloid Scars:
  Keloid scars are raised, shiny, and can appear red or purple before fading over time. These scars are caused by abnormal collagen production, leading to excessive tissue growth that extends beyond the original wound. Patients may experience itching or a burning sensation around the scar.

• Hypertrophic Scars:
  Similar in appearance to keloid scars, hypertrophic scars do not expand beyond the boundaries of the original wound. However, scars in areas that undergo frequent movement may restrict mobility.

• Burn Scars:
  These scars often affect muscles and nerves, causing difficulty in movement around the affected area.

• Atrophic or Pitted Scars:
  These scars appear as deep depressions or pits on the face, typically resulting from severe acne. Unlike other scars, pitted scars do not heal naturally and require professional procedures for treatment, as topical applications are ineffective.

Why Do Topical Treatments Fail to Heal Facial Scars?

Abnormal Collagen Activity

The primary reason why facial scars may not heal effectively lies in collagen. Collagen is a natural substance in the body responsible for shedding dead skin cells and stimulating the production of new skin cells. If the scarred area has insufficient or excessive collagen, the scars may persist without improvement. Hard-to-treat scars include raised scars, atrophic scars, and hyperpigmented scars.

Improper Wound Care

Neglecting proper wound care, such as inadequate cleaning, frequent picking or scratching, or prolonged sun exposure without sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) or protective clothing, can irritate the wound. This can lead to infections and slow the healing process.

Internal Body Factors

As we age, the body’s collagen production decreases. This not only weakens the skin compared to its resilience in youth but also leads to dryness and reduced hydration. Additional factors include genetics, which may predispose some individuals to develop raised scars, and certain medical conditions like diabetes or coronary artery disease that impair blood circulation.

Using Inappropriate Products

Many over-the-counter scar treatments contain ingredients like silicone, allantoin, vitamin C, vitamin E, exfoliants, and flavonoids such as kaempferol and quercetin, which aid in skin regeneration and scar healing. However, some products also include preservatives, fragrances, and alcohol, which can irritate the skin and slow down the scar-healing process.

What Are the Most Effective Treatments for Facial Scars?

Chemical Peeling

This involves applying a high concentration of AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acids), typically 50–70%, to the scarred area to promote the shedding of old skin cells and stimulate the growth of new ones. Suitable for superficial scars in the epidermis, chemical peels must be performed under medical supervision to avoid potential harm to the skin and overall health.

Subcision

Subcision is a procedure involving the use of tools such as small needles or blunt cannulas, which are inserted beneath the skin to sever the fibrous bands tethering the acne scars. This process helps elevate the scarred depressions while simultaneously stimulating the body’s natural production of collagen in the treated area. However, this technique is most suitable for addressing rolling scars and boxcar scars.

Potential side effects of subcision include bruising, swelling, and tenderness post-treatment. Additionally, there is an increased risk of infection and, in some cases, the results may not be permanent.

Filler Injection

Filler injections use HA (Hyaluronic acid) to fill depressed scars, such as acne scars. This procedure is safe and provides immediate results. However, HA fillers are temporary and typically last 6–12 months, depending on the type of filler and aftercare. Patients need repeat treatments to maintain results.

CO2 Laser Resurfacing

Laser treatments for acne scars involve the use of laser technology to target damaged skin layers while simultaneously stimulating the production of new collagen. These treatments can be divided into two main categories:

• Ablative Lasers: Remove the outer layer of the skin (epidermis) and part of the dermis. Examples: CO2 Laser and Erbium Laser.

• Non-Ablative Lasers: Deliver energy to deeper layers of the skin without removing the surface layer. Examples: Fraxel Laser and YAG Laser.

EndoliftX Light Scan

This advanced laser technology delivers light at a wavelength of 1,470 nanometers into the subcutaneous fat layer, converting it into heat energy to break down scar tissue responsible for acne and other facial scars. It also stimulates collagen contraction, promoting the production of new collagen, which enhances skin elasticity and strength. This treatment provides immediate results in smoothing the skin.

For acne scars, EndoliftX Light Scan suppresses Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) bacteria and tightens pores, addressing two primary causes of chronic acne. By regulating sebum production, this treatment prevents excessive oil secretion, reducing inflammation and preventing new acne from forming.

In addition to treating scars, EndoliftX Light Scan lifts and tightens facial skin, enhancing facial contours and leaving the skin smoother, firmer, and more radiant.

Where to Treat Facial Scars: Why Choose EndoliftX at Bin Haider Clinic?

When it comes to treating facial scars with the EndoliftX technique, one of the most trusted providers is Bin Haider Clinic. With extensive expertise in dermatology and aesthetic medicine, the clinic specializes in facial lifting, acne treatment, pigmentation management, and the use of advanced medical technologies in aesthetics.

At Bin Haider Clinic, our specialists skillfully integrate two EndoliftX techniques—EndoliftX Laser Fiber and EndoliftX Light Scan—to address each patient’s unique concerns effectively. We prioritize personalized care, from the initial consultation to post-treatment follow-up, ensuring that every patient achieves the desired results with satisfaction.

Our clinic prides itself on maintaining the highest standards of safety and professionalism. With a team of certified specialists and state-of-the-art technology, we deliver effective, clear, and safe outcomes tailored to each individual. Every step of your treatment is closely monitored by our expert team, so you can trust in the results with confidence.