A scar is the skin's repair after injury, surgery, acne, or burns. Most scars fade over a year, but some become hypertrophic (raised, within the wound edges) or keloid (raised and growing beyond the original wound), and acne can leave pitted or discolored marks. Keloids are far more common in skin of color and often run in families. Scars from cancer surgery, radiation, and ports are also a frequent concern for survivors.

What causes a scar to become raised or a keloid?

Excess collagen production during healing. Tension on the wound, infection, delayed healing, and a genetic tendency all increase the risk. Common keloid sites are the chest, shoulders, earlobes, and jawline. Keloids can appear months after the injury and can itch or hurt.

What types of scars can be treated?

Keloids and hypertrophic scars; acne scars (ice pick, boxcar, rolling, and post-inflammatory dark marks); surgical scars; stretch marks; and scars from radiation or wounds during cancer treatment.

How are scars treated?

Raised scars and keloids respond to corticosteroid injections, often combined with cryotherapy, silicone, pressure, or laser; recurrent keloids may be excised with injections or radiation to prevent regrowth. Acne scars are treated with microneedling, laser resurfacing, chemical peels, or fillers depending on type, and dark marks with topical lightening agents. Starting treatment early gives the best results.

How Tono treats scars and keloids

Tono's board-certified dermatologists see patients with scarring within days, not months, by video visit in 33 states and in person at Tono clinical centers. Injections and procedures are done at Tono centers; planning, follow-up, and topical regimens are handled by telehealth. Our dermatologists have particular experience with keloids in skin of color. Your visit ends with a written plan, prescriptions sent to your pharmacy, and follow-up scheduled with the same dermatologist. Most insurance is accepted and no referral is required.

When should I see a dermatologist for scarring?

See a dermatologist when a scar is growing beyond the wound, itching or painful, limiting movement, or when acne scarring or discoloration is affecting how you feel about your skin. Keloids are easier to control when treated early.