The extent of scarring due to burns is related to age of the burn, ethnic origin, the severity, depth and location of the burn.
Research shows that less severe burns (also called superficial partial thickness burns) that heal in less than 10 days generally have no scarring. More severe burns (also called deep partial thickness burns) heal in 14 to 21 days and put you at a risk of scarring. Burns that take more than 21 days to heal (also called full thickness burns) and burns that require skin grafting are at high risk for scarring.
When a scar becomes old, it becomes more avascular, dry and firm. The older the scar the more difficult it is to treat.
Why Do Scars Take Time to Heal?
Scar healing can take a long time and it is very frustrating. Scarring usually develops within the first few months after the burn, peaks around 6 months and resolves or “matures” in 12-18 months. As scars mature they fade in color, become flatter, softer and generally less sensitive.
Did You Know?
The length of time it takes for a scar to heal also depends on how much oxygen your scar receives during wound healing. You can increase the amount of oxygen that reaches your scar by exercising and avoiding smoking. Numerous studies have proven that smoking negatively affects wound healing.
The Burden of Burn Cases on the Economy:
The union health ministry reports that India records 70 lakh burn injury cases annually of which 1.4 lakh people die of burns every year. Around 70% of all burn injuries occur in the most productive age group (15-35 years). Around four out of five burnt cases are women and children which are non-earning population. Most of the cases are not insured. Hence the burden of burn cases in India is immense. A large number of cases are due to domestic violence and have deep psychological consequences.
What Can Help Treat Old Burn Scars?
Besides understanding the different factors that can influence a scar’s healing time, you can further speed up scar healing by using scar treatments that promote healing. Skin City’s Ultrapulse laser in SCAARFx mode along with Enerjet JVR is a perfect combination of technologies for collagen remodeling. This treatment combo is highly effective in lessening the extent of the scar.
What You Should Avoid:
Avoid home remedies such as vitamin E and lemon juice which can actually irritate a healing scar and cause it to take longer to heal. Additionally, avoid fragrances and preservatives, which can also be irritating and further delay healing.
The Power of Silicone Gel…
What you must do is instead, look for products that contain ingredients that have been proven to promote scar healing, such as silicone gel. The use of topical silicone gel or silicone gel sheeting can protect the scarred tissue from bacterial invasion by providing an occlusive barrier. This barrier also helps to keep the affected area hydrated and provides a continuous light pressure that helps the scar to stay flat, soft, and less red.
The healing process can often seem long and frustrating for a burn survivor and his or her family. And not to mention the hefty funding it might need in the search for a cure. Health Insurance can certainly give you respite from bills; however, non-insured treatments will eat up the budget and create a need for financial and psychological support. So it is wise to consider financial planning for scar treatment during active burn injury management itself.
Innovative Scar Treatment at Skin City:
Skin City boasts of new technologies, with remarkable results for scar treatment.
Here at Skin City, we’re on the cutting edge of burn care because of our pioneering efforts in scar treatment, which begins immediately after the wound heals. One of our most important treatment tools is the use of lasers to enhance healing. This improves both the appearance and symptoms of scars. Our team understands that a scar can have a significant impact on the patient’s quality of life no matter its size, appearance or location.
Get your burn scars fixed at India’s topmost dermatology centers. We assure you visible results!