THE ANATOMY OF A SCAR

According to a recent survey, most adults (93%) have or had a scar.1 Some wear their scars like badges of courage, for others, scars bring back bad memories of how they got it. Some might see their scars as unsightly blemishes. For those people, there are different remedies available but it's important to pick the treatment that is right for you and your scar. Ninety-six percent (96%) of those surveyed who have or had a scar, were not aware that using an over-the-counter (OTC) product to help their scar could actually make it worse.2 Here's what you need to know to effectively minimize the appearance of your scar.

NOT ALL SCARS ARE CREATED EQUAL

When the skin is injured, scars form to fill the gap. Your body produces collagen, a strong, white protein fiber to reconnect the broken skin. Sometimes, not enough collagen is formed, leaving a sunken scar. There are no OTC remedies that have been proven to improve the appearance of sunken scars, but a doctor prescribed treatment may help. Other times, too much collagen is produced leaving a raised scar. When our healing is in perfect balance, our skin cells produce an enzyme called collagenase to melt away the excess collagen that causes these raised scars. In cases where too much collagen is left, a raised, unsightly scar results. Scars can also be painful. The good news is that there are treatment options for both the discomfort and shape.

OTC SCAR TREATMENT OPTIONS

For years, doctors have recommended treatments that include the following:

BANDAGE THE SCAR

Many doctors believe that pressure stimulates the production of collagenaseand helps to shrink scars. This was the original treatment for scars, and for a long time, the only remedy that worked.

TOPICAL SILICONE

This keeps the scar hydrated and clinical studies have shown that when silicone sheeting is used after surgery, it inhibits scars from developing and can even help old, raised scars.3 It is the basis of most scar treatments recommended by doctors since the 1980s.

CORTISONE

This is an anti-irritant that helps reduce the pain and itching often associated with

scarring. Stronger cortisones have been used to help shrink scars as well.

VITAMIN E

This is a popular treatment because it softens and moisturizes the scar. Some clinical studies have shown it be ineffective while others say that it works. Laboratory studies infer that it could be helpful in preventing scars from developing more than treating old scars.

There is scientific and anecdotal evidence that suggests that treatments that incorporate these elements can help minimize the appearance of scars. Many over the counter creams, gels and bandages contain these elements and must be used for several weeks (4 weeks - 6 months) to be effective. It is important to select a treatment that you will use consistently for the full course of treatment. Do

9. When should I resort to alternative therapies like surgery or dermabrasion?

RULES OF THUMB FOR OTC TREATMENT

For best results when using OTC treatments on scars, consumers should:

•  Make sure your scar is raised, not sunken

• Look for treatments that contain clinically proven treatments: pressure, silicone, topical cortisone and vitamin E

• Remember that you must use OTC treatments for several weeks to be effective so pick one that you'll stick with for the requisite treatment time.

One of the more recent entries in the scar OTC treatment category, Scarguard, has quickly become the most recommended treatment by plastic surgeons because it contains all of these elements in a clear, waterproof, brush-on formula.⁴ It is nearly invisible and patients find it easy to use.

ADDITIONAL TREATMENT OPTIONS

Some scars require more intense treatment options such as dermabrasion, scar revisionsurgery, cortisone (steroid) shots, cryosurgery,or laser resurfacing.

These are more invasive treatment methods and consumers should consult their doctorsto see if these are appropriate for them.

QUESSCARS AND THEIR TREATMENTTIONS TO ASK YOUR DOCTOR OR PHARMACIST ABOUT OTC SCAR TREATMENTS

1Harris Interactive® online survey conducted on behalf of Scarguard Labs between December 27 and 29, 2005 among 2,152 U.S. adults (18+) Sampling error for the overall results is +/- 3.5 percentage points.

2ibid

3Dermatology Surgery 2001 Jul;27(7):641-4.

4Customer Service Survey, Mentor Corporation, 2004

This scar care guide was created by Joel Studin, M.D., F.A.C.S.,

a plastic surgeon, scar expert and inventor of Scarguard.

COLLAGEN BUILD-UP CAUSES SCARS

For more information, visit www.scarguard.com