Scars are a natural part of the healing process, but for many Australians, they can also be a source of emotional and physical discomfort. Whether caused by acne, surgery, burns, or injury, scars vary widely in appearance and impact. Fortunately, modern treatments offer several effective options to minimise and improve scarring. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through how to start treating scars, from understanding scar types to choosing the right therapies and aftercare.

Understanding the Types of Scars

Before seeking treatment, it’s crucial to identify the type of scar you have. Each type responds differently to various therapies.

  1. Hypertrophic Scars

Raised and red, these scars stay within the boundary of the original wound. They’re common after burns, cuts, or surgeries.

  1. Keloid Scars

Larger and more aggressive than hypertrophic scars, keloids grow beyond the original injury. They are more common in darker skin tones and may recur after removal.

  1. Atrophic Scars

Depressed or pitted scars, often resulting from acne or chickenpox. They include boxcar, ice pick, and rolling scars.

  1. Contracture Scars

Usually due to burns, these scars tighten the skin and can restrict movement if over joints or muscles.

  1. Stretch Marks (Striae)

While not technically scars, stretch marks are considered a form of dermal scarring due to rapid stretching of the skin, such as during pregnancy or weight gain.

Step 1: Assess Your Scar

Begin by evaluating your scar’s:

If your scar is recent, it’s best to wait until the wound is fully healed before beginning active treatments. This can take 4–8 weeks depending on the wound.

Step 2: Consult a Professional

Visit a qualified skin specialist or dermatologist for a proper assessment. Many Australian clinics offer free or affordable consultations. Your clinician will:

Step 3: Explore Treatment Options

Topical Treatments

Ideal for early intervention and mild scarring:

Professional Clinical Treatments

For moderate to severe scarring, professional treatments in Melbourne and across Australia include:

  1. Microneedling (Skin Needling)
  1. Laser Therapy
  1. Chemical Peels
  1. Subcision
  1. Dermal Fillers
  1. Cryotherapy

Some medically necessary treatments may be eligible for Medicare rebates, particularly for post-surgical scars or burns. It’s worth asking your GP about a referral.

Step 5: Create a Long-Term Care Routine

Scar improvement takes time, and consistency is key. Whether using at-home products or undergoing professional treatment, support your healing with good skincare practices:

Daily Care Tips:
Post-Treatment Care:
Step 6: Track Progress and Adjust

Take regular photos of your scar under consistent lighting to monitor changes. Keep a journal to record:

If results plateau, revisit your specialist. Sometimes combination therapies or a change in approach yields better outcomes.

Common Myths About Scar Treatment

“Scars will disappear completely.”

False — While scars can fade significantly, they often don’t vanish entirely.

“Expensive treatments are always better.”

Not always — Consistency with simple methods (like silicone sheets) can be just as effective for certain scars.

“You must wait a year before treating a scar.”

Some treatments, like silicone gel or light peels, can begin as soon as the skin is closed and healed (after 4–6 weeks).

Emotional and Psychological Considerations

Scars can affect confidence, self-esteem, and emotional wellbeing. In some cases, individuals feel anxious or embarrassed about visible scars. If your scars impact your mental health, consider speaking with a psychologist or joining support groups.

Final Thoughts

Starting scar treatment might feel overwhelming, but it begins with understanding your scar and seeking the right guidance. In most cases, a combination of medical advice, home care, and professional therapies leads to the best outcome.

The key is patience, consistency, and choosing the right treatment path based on your individual skin and scar type. Whether you’re dealing with acne scars, post-surgical marks, or stretch marks, there are modern, science-backed options available right here in Australia.

At Medix Clinic, we offer a comprehensive range of skin and cosmetic treatments tailored to your needs. Our services include acne scarring in Melbourne, scar treatment in Melbourne, and radio frequency microneedling in Melbourne to promote skin repair and regeneration. We also provide professional skin needling in Melbourne, advanced skin tightening in Melbourne, and effective skin tag and mole removal in Melbourne. For pigmentation issues, we offer targeted pigmentation removal in Melbourne, and to restore your skin’s glow, we specialise in skin rejuvenation in Melbourne. Additionally, you can enhance your smile with our safe and effective LED teeth whitening in Melbourne