How to remove scars left by chickenpox

In general, scarring from chickenpox may be caused by individual differences, the skin's natural healing process, friction, imbalanced collagen fiber secretion, or systemic lupus erythematosus. Treatment options include general care, medications, fractional laser therapy, intralesional steroid injections, and microneedling, all of which should be conducted under a doctor’s guidance. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Individual Differences

Differences in skin type, genetic factors, and immune system responses among individuals can lead to varied reactions to the varicella virus and its healing process, resulting in scarring. It is important to keep the skin clean and avoid scratching. Fractional laser therapy can be performed under the guidance of a qualified physician. This treatment uses laser energy on scar tissue to stimulate collagen regeneration, thereby improving the appearance of scars. The reference cost is generally 1,000–5,000 yuan per session, with visible improvement typically occurring within 7–15 days. However, temporary side effects such as redness and pain may occur.

2. Natural Skin Healing Process

Chickenpox rashes go through stages of crusting and shedding during healing. If scabs are prematurely removed due to scratching or external friction, scarring may result. In daily life, camouflage cosmetics can be used to cover scars. Intralesional steroid injections are recommended under professional medical supervision. This treatment involves injecting medication directly into the scar tissue to cause it to shrink, thus improving scar appearance. The reference cost is 50–200 yuan per injection, with improvement usually seen within 2–3 days. Possible side effects include pain and swelling at the injection site.

3. Friction

Clothing, bed sheets, and other fabrics may cause friction against chickenpox lesions. Repeated rubbing can easily damage the skin and lead to scarring. This may be accompanied by mild inflammation and hyperpigmentation. Follow medical advice to use topical medications such as tretinoin cream, fusidic acid cream, or erythromycin ointment for treatment.

4. Imbalance in Collagen Fiber Secretion

During chickenpox, the body experiences external injury, disrupting the balance of collagen fiber production. This leads to increased collagen synthesis and reduced degradation, contributing to scar formation. Use hydrating skincare products to maintain moisture. Microneedling may also be considered under professional medical guidance. This procedure creates microscopic injuries in the skin using fine needles, stimulating the skin’s self-repair mechanisms and collagen regeneration to improve scar appearance. The reference cost is approximately 3,000–5,000 yuan per session, with noticeable improvement typically appearing after 15–30 days. Temporary side effects such as brief pain, redness, swelling, and dryness may occur.

5. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)

Systemic lupus erythematosus is a chronic, diffuse connective tissue disease primarily caused by abnormal activation of the immune system attacking the body's own tissues. This condition leads to immune dysfunction, which may intensify the skin’s response to the varicella virus, increasing the risk of scarring. Symptoms may include fever, joint pain, and rashes. Patients should follow medical advice and use medications such as hydroxychloroquine sulfate tablets, prednisone acetate tablets, and methotrexate injection as prescribed.

It is recommended to seek treatment at a reputable medical facility and undergo procedures under the supervision of a qualified physician to ensure effectiveness and safety. In daily life, maintaining skin cleanliness and hydration, avoiding physical friction and scratching, and minimizing skin trauma can help reduce the risk of scarring. Additionally, a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle contribute positively to optimal skin recovery.