What types of scars are there?

Generally speaking, scars refer to cicatrix, which can be categorized into several types including normal scars, hypertrophic scars, keloids, atrophic scars, and depressed scars. A detailed breakdown is as follows:

1. Normal Scars

Normal scars are a natural phenomenon during the wound healing process. They usually appear light-colored and have texture similar to the surrounding normal skin, without significantly affecting aesthetics or function.

2. Hypertrophic Scars

Hypertrophic scars are caused by excessive proliferation of fibroblasts during wound healing. These scars are typically thicker and redder than normal scars, and may be accompanied by itching or pain, although they generally do not extend beyond the original wound boundary.

3. Keloids

Keloids are characterized by scar tissue that not only extends beyond the original wound boundary but may also continue to grow, even forming nodular shapes. The formation of keloids is related to genetic factors, race, individual differences, and other factors.

4. Atrophic Scars

Atrophic scars are typically caused by severe damage to the deep layers of the skin, resulting in insufficient collagen synthesis. These scars appear sunken with a soft texture, commonly seen after healing from conditions such as chickenpox or acne.

5. Depressed Scars

Depressed scars are caused by skin tissue defects or damage to the subcutaneous fat layer. These scars are visibly lower than the surrounding skin surface and are commonly observed after acne, chickenpox, or traumatic injuries.

It is advisable to avoid unnecessary skin trauma, such as burns or cuts. When engaging in high-risk activities, appropriate protective equipment should be worn. Once the skin is injured, immediate cleaning and disinfection should be performed to prevent infection.