Feb 22, 2011

New scar treatment technique mimics tattooing process

A new technique called para-medical cosmetic tattooing may be a useful method of scar treatment, according to Fox 8 Live. The procedure involves the injection of a concealing pigment that masks any scars, giving them the color of the surrounding skin.

A standard tattoo gun is used to deliver the substance directly into the patient's skin, a minimally invasive approach that works best on lighter scars.

The procedure was recently performed with success on a woman who had sustained a large chest scar after undergoing cancer surgery.

However, para-medical cosmetic tattooing would not be as efficient on "darker or hyper-pigmented scars with color," according to expert Debbie Guastella, quoted by the media outlet. "It could cause the skin to re-pigment itself and you'd end up with a darker scar."

According to WebMD, some examples of darker scars include keloids - which are marks that extend beyond the original injury - and hypertrophic scars, which have a raised, reddish appearance.

Individuals who wish to reduce the appearance of more pigmented scars may opt for silicone ointment, which has shown to be effective at lessening the severity of these marks.  

 

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