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3 things you need to know about laser scar treatment

2 MIN READ • 27th January 2023

The London Scar Clinic in Harley Street tell us the need-to-knows when considering laser scar treatment

Having scars and perceived “imperfections” on the body’s surface is completely normal and not something to be ashamed of. But, if you feel having the visibility of a scar lessened would boost your self-esteem and happiness, then laser scar treatment might be for you.

Scar laser treatment can be an effective way to improve the appearance of your scars. The procedure uses a laser to heat up and destroy the cells that produce collagen. By destroying these cells, the appearance of scars can be improved. It can be an effective treatment to improve the visibility of scarring caused by acne.

However, The London Scar Clinic in Harley Street, recommends before having any type of scar laser treatment, it is important that you understand what to expect.

Read on to hear from them on the top three things you need to know about scar laser treatment.

Three important things to know about laser scar treatment

1. You always need a medical consultation

Before any laser treatment, a medical consultation is essential for everyone. It is vital to ensure that the person treating your scars knows all about you. Everyone’s skin type, body and characteristics are unique.  

Before undergoing any treatment, it is essential to consult your dermatologist about any medications or supplements you are taking or if you have a medical condition such as diabetes. 

Also, be sure to let them know if you ever have cold sores due to their sensitivity to laser treatments. The more information they have access to, the better the chances of having successful results tailored to your needs.

2. Expect different degrees of pain

Scar laser treatments can be a fantastic way to reduce the appearance of scars, however different lasers come with various associated levels of pain.

The Co2 laser often produces the most discomfort, though the sensation varies between individuals depending on their own pain thresholds. It can feel like an elastic band “ping” or a sunburn.

To reduce this discomfort, numbing cream may be applied before treatment or local anaesthetic can be injected. You should speak to your local clinician to understand what options are available to you. With any of these options in place, you should find the experience is more comfortable.

3. Some side effects can be expected

Dermatologists often advise patients to be aware of the possible side effects that may arise following a scar laser treatment.

These can range from mild redness, swelling or itching to more serious side effects such as scarring, bleeding and pain.  

Any mild symptoms should improve within a few days, but it is important to see your doctor if there are signs of an infection like increased redness or severe pain.

Additionally, look for warning signs like developing an abscess or pocket of pus near the procedure site which can be a sign of infection and should be reported to your physician right away.

Key takeaways

Scar laser treatment is a great way to improve the appearance of your scars and is a good acne scar treatment.

However, it is important to have a medical consultation before undergoing any treatment and you should expect different degrees of pain depending on the laser and side effects may arise following the treatment.

It’s recommended that you consult your dermatologist to ensure a successful outcome tailored to your needs.

If you’d like more information or to book a consultation with the doctors at the London Scar Clinic, visit the website.

Meet the writer
Rae Passfield
Commercial content creator

Rae is the newest member of the H&W editorial team, working on the mag’s creative branded content and joining the panel on the Walk to Wellbeing podcast. She’s spent several years living and working abroad as a copywriter... Discover more

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