How to Remove Scars from Self-Injury

Self-inflicted scars can last a lifetime, drawing unwanted attention or making you feel uncomfortable when wearing clothes that reveal them. Patience and time are the two key factors in fading scars. Additionally, there are various methods to help reduce the appearance of scars, such as using over-the-counter creams and gels, home treatments, and medical procedures. While these methods may not completely eliminate the scars, most of them can help you feel more comfortable with your appearance.

Try using silicone gel sheets. These are adhesive sheets applied to the scarred area to help fade the scars within 2-4 months. Place the silicone gel sheet on the scar for at least 12 hours per day for 2-4 months. Studies have shown that these silicone sheets can also help flatten scars.

Use Mederma Gel. This topical gel is used to reduce the appearance of scars. It contains various active ingredients that work together to regenerate the skin, making it appear softer and smoother. A tube of Mederma gel typically costs around 520,000 - 550,000 VND.

• Apply Mederma gel to the scar once daily for 8 weeks for new scars and for 3-6 months for older scars.
• Some studies have shown that Mederma gel does not significantly reduce scars more than using a moisturizing balm on the scar.

Try Bio-Oil. This oil is applied directly to the scar to help fade it. In addition, it helps even out skin tone, making it particularly useful for pink, red, or brown scars. A 60 ml bottle of Bio-Oil costs around 190,000 VND and is available online or in pharmacies.

• Avoid applying the oil near the eyes, as this area is very sensitive.

Try other scar creams and gels. Many other scar treatment gels and creams are available that may help fade scars. Some well-known brands like Selevax, Dermefface FX7, Revitol Scar Cream, and Kelo-Cote Scar Gel can be found in pharmacies or online stores.

• The price of these products varies widely, making them a good option to consider if you plan to use a gel or cream for an extended period to reduce scars.

Consider Dermabrasion Treatment. Dermabrasion is a procedure that removes the top layer of skin, similar to sanding the skin, like exfoliating the knees. The treated area heals in a way similar to the knee after dermabrasion. This procedure may require local anesthesia for smaller areas of skin or more extensive numbing for larger areas.

Consult a doctor regarding skin grafting techniques. This surgical process involves removing the uppermost layer of skin from the scarred area and covering it with an ultra-thin skin graft taken from the thigh or other parts of the body. This graft will conceal the scar and blend in with the surrounding skin after about a year.

• Depending on the size of the scar, you may be given either local or general anesthesia.
• The skin graft will leave a scar, but it won’t be very noticeable.

Scar revision surgery. Scar revision surgery involves altering the appearance of a scar by removing the scar tissue and stitching the skin back together. The surgeon may adjust the location or size of the scar, making it less noticeable and resembling normal skin rather than a self-inflicted wound.

Try laser resurfacing treatments. Laser resurfacing is a procedure performed over several sessions, using a laser to heat the skin and stimulate the production of new collagen and elastin. You will be given anesthesia and sedatives before the treatment.

• Side effects may include redness, itching, and blisters.

Apply moisturizing wax to new scars. Moisturizing wax (such as Vaseline) is a byproduct of petroleum refining, used to create a waterproof barrier on the skin. It can help reduce the appearance of scars by covering and moisturizing the skin. Apply it to new scars once daily.

• Moisturizing wax may not be effective for older scars.

Use Vitamin E oil. Vitamin E is often available in capsule or small bottle form, sold at health food stores or the health section in supermarkets. You need to break open the capsule and apply the oil directly to your skin. Gently massage it in. Alternatively, you can apply a vitamin E lotion to your skin twice daily.

• There are mixed opinions on the effectiveness of Vitamin E in removing or fading scars. Vitamin E can also cause skin irritation in some individuals.

Try Aloe Vera. Aloe Vera is a plant with numerous health benefits, including reducing skin inflammation and moisturizing. Aloe Vera gel can be extracted directly from the plant's leaves or purchased in bottles at natural food stores. Apply the gel to the scar at least once a day.

Use Lemon Juice. Lemon juice is a natural bleaching agent that can help lighten scars. Cleanse your skin, then apply fresh lemon juice to the scar using a cotton ball. Leave it on for about 10 minutes, then wash it off.

Use Olive Oil. Pure olive oil can help reduce the appearance of scars. Gently massage a small amount of pure olive oil into your skin once or twice daily for several weeks or months.

Try Other Home Remedies. Many other natural home remedies can help fade scars, including: lavender essential oil, Roman chamomile, cod liver oil, baking soda, cocoa butter, tea tree oil, and honey. You can search online for more information on how to use these natural scar-fading ingredients.

Clean and dry your skin. It's best to apply makeup to clean, oil-free, and dirt-free skin. Wash the area you intend to apply makeup to and pat it dry with a towel.

Use concealer and foundation. Concealer and foundation can work together to cover various types of scars, particularly smaller or lighter scars.

• Choose a concealer that is a few shades lighter than your skin tone. For red or pink scars, opt for a green-tinted concealer. For scars with a brownish hue, select a yellow-toned concealer. Dab the concealer onto the scar and allow it to dry for a few minutes.
• Pick a foundation that matches your skin tone. Gently press the foundation onto the scar, blending it with the surrounding skin.
• Finish with translucent powder. This helps set the foundation and prevents it from smudging too much.

Use tattoo cover-up cream. Tattoo cover-up cream is a highly effective, water-resistant product designed to be applied directly to the skin to conceal imperfections like tattoos. You can purchase this product at pharmacies. The best tattoo cover-up cream in tube form typically costs around 450,000 VND. Some products come with setting powder to ensure the coverage stays in place.

• Choose a tattoo cover-up cream that matches the skin tone of the scarred area.

Cover scars with long-sleeved shirts and pants. If the scars are located on your arms or legs, you can wear clothing that conceals them so others won't see.

• This may not be the best option during the summer months.

Wear fitted pants. Fitted pants (also known as skinny pants) can cover your legs at any time of year, and can be paired with dresses, skirts, or shorts. Opt for lighter fitted pants during hot weather and thicker ones for colder months.

Wear wrist jewelry. If the scar is on your wrist, consider wearing accessories like bracelets or watches to conceal the scar. Wrist wraps can also be a suitable option when you're exercising.

Choose simple swimwear. If you want to swim, you don't need to wear revealing swimwear. Instead, opt for a one-piece swimsuit or wear swim trunks over your swimsuit. Additionally, you can add a t-shirt or a wetsuit top along with your swim shorts.

Apply sunscreen. Fresh scars are particularly sensitive to ultraviolet rays, which can slow down the healing process. Sun exposure also increases the discoloration of the scar. Therefore, you should apply sunscreen to the scar before going outside.

Consider getting a tattoo over the scar. Scars may not completely disappear, but you can cover them or make them less noticeable by getting a tattoo. You could work with a tattoo artist to design a tattoo that not only hides the scar but also holds personal significance for you.

Embrace the scar. A scar is something you may want to hide or avoid discussing, but it can also serve as a reminder of your strength. Acknowledge that you've gone through a tough period in life and emerged much stronger.

• If you are still engaging in self-harm, it's important to reach out to someone you trust, like a close friend or family member. You may also consider seeing a professional to discuss underlying issues that are leading to self-harm. Additionally, it's essential to educate yourself on how to engage in self-harm safely.
• If you have suicidal thoughts, please call emergency services immediately to receive assistance.