What are the main types of scars and how to get rid of them

Collaborative Post | We all have them. A reminder of a fall. A breakout from years ago. Maybe a burn or surgery scar that just won’t fade. Scars show up in so many ways—and they don’t all behave the same. Some flatten out. Others raise up, darken, or create dips in the skin that seem impossible to smooth.

If you’ve tried home remedies or over-the-counter creams and haven’t seen results, you’re not alone. Getting rid of scars usually takes more than just a DIY solution. That’s why so many people are now seeking help from professionals. A visit to an affordable skin doctor Singapore residents swear by can be the first real step toward healing. And when it comes to tougher cases, such as raised scars that keep growing, clinics offering specialised keloid scar removal in Singapore have helped thousands achieve clearer, smoother skin.

So what kind of scar are you dealing with? And what’s the best way to treat it? Let’s take a closer look.

Photo by Mink Mingle on Unsplash

What causes scars to form in the first place?

When your skin gets injured, your body jumps into action. It sends collagen to repair the damage. If everything goes smoothly, you might barely notice the scar. But if too much or too little collagen is produced, the result can be uneven.

Some scars sink. Others raise. A few stretches. And in many cases, they linger far longer than expected.

The most effective scar removal treatments today

Atrophic Scars

​These are sunken scars that result from collagen loss during healing. Most often, they’re caused by acne, chickenpox, or injuries that didn’t heal properly.

Subtypes:

• Ice pick scars: Narrow and deep.
• Boxcar scars: Wide with defined edges.
• Rolling scars: Shallow and uneven, giving the skin a wavy look.

Treatment Options:

• Microneedling: Boosts collagen and smooths skin texture over time.
• Laser resurfacing: Removes damaged surface layers and promotes new skin growth.
• Dermal fillers: Lift depressed scars temporarily for a more even appearance.
• Subcision: Releases scar tissue under the skin to reduce depth.

Hypertrophic Scars

These are raised, thick scars that stay within the original wound boundary. They’re common after cuts, burns, or surgical incisions and can appear red or firm.

Treatment Options:

• Steroid injections: Flatten and soften the scar over several sessions.
• Laser therapy: Targets redness and reduces thickness.
• Silicone gels or sheets: Used daily to improve scar texture and reduce size.

Keloid Scars

Keloids are raised scars that extend beyond the original injury. They can grow over time and often feel itchy, tight, or sensitive.

They’re more common in people with darker skin tones and often develop on the chest, shoulders, earlobes, or jawline.

Treatment Options:

• Steroid injections: The first line of treatment to reduce inflammation and shrink the scar.
• Cryotherapy: Freezes smaller keloids to reduce their size.
• Laser treatments: Improve surface texture and colour when combined with other therapies.
• Surgical removal: Sometimes used for large keloids, followed by steroids or radiation to prevent regrowth.

Contracture Scars

These form when the skin tightens during healing, often after a burn. They can restrict movement, especially if they form near joints or muscles.

Treatment Options:

• Surgical revision: Removes the scar and replaces it with grafted or stretched skin.
• Tissue expansion: Grows nearby skin to cover the damaged area.
• Physical therapy: Helps restore mobility after treatment.

Acne Scars

Acne scars often include a mix of types—sunken, raised, and discoloured. They’re the result of deep inflammation or picking at spots.

Treatment Options:

• Microneedling: Repairs shallow scars by triggering collagen production.
• Laser resurfacing: Improves both pigmentation and surface irregularities.
• Chemical peels: Lighten dark marks and refine skin texture.
• Fillers: Add volume under indented scars.
• Steroid injections: Used for thick or raised acne scars.​

From scarred to smoother skin

No two scars are exactly alike, and no single treatment works for every type. But with modern dermatology, you’ve got options. Real ones.

Start by identifying your scar type. Then, speak with a professional who understands how to treat it correctly. Whether it’s laser therapy, fillers, microneedling, or surgery—today’s treatments can make a real difference.

If you’re ready to explore what’s best for your skin, reach out to a trusted dermatologist. Your skin deserves expert care.