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The human body was created with a perfectly constructed immune system destined to protect it from a variety of injuries including puncture wounds, burns, or blunt trauma. The second the body receives any type of aggression it sets into motion a chain of events that protect the body from further damage.

When an injury happens, many different cells quickly aid the wounded area and the healing process begins. This process means that the normal functional tissue is replaced by connective tissue (scar). But not to worry, this is the body's way of protecting itself from harm. Not all wounds heal alike so take care of each injury carefully so that you maintain scarring tissue down to a minimum.

Simple Tips for Scar Prevention

Before you decide to treat a wound you should have a handle on scar treatment and scar prevention. Here is a short list of tips:

*Avoid hydrogen peroxide: A wound should be kept clean from debris; however, using a product like hydrogen peroxide will destroy new skin cells.

*Avoid UV exposure: Don't try to hide scars by exposing them to UV radiation. This does not help your scar at all! UV exposure actually slows down the healing process and promotes dark coloration. If you do find yourself exposed to solar radiation, don't forget to use sun block. Dermatologists recommend using SPF 15 or higher and reapplying every 2 hours.

*Avoid exposing the injury: A great way to safeguard a wound is to cover it with a bandage to keep it safe from debris while maintaining its natural moisture balance. Keep the wound covered and protected until it has fully healed.

Different types of scars

A wound that is not cared for properly is a scar waiting to form. And, did you know that there is more than one type of scar? Here are just a few:

*Keloid scars: Keloid scars are the result of an extremely aggressive healing process and are also more likely to appear on dark-skin than on light-skin. These scars extend beyond the original injury. As the scar gets older it may affect mobility. Possible scar healing treatments include surgical removal, or injections with steroids. Once an injury has been sustained, you can prevent the formation of keloids by using pressure treatment or gel pads with silicone.

*Contracture scars: Burn victims are more likely to suffer from this type of scar. It produces tightening of the skin and impairs mobility; furthermore, this type of scar may go deep into the skin and affect muscles and nerves.

*Hypertrophic scars: This type of scar is similar to keloid scars, however, it does not breach the boundaries of the injury site. Possible scar removal may include steroid injections to reduce inflammation.

*Acne scars: These scars appear after an acne breakout has subdued. Acne scars range from deep pits to scars that are angular or wavelike in appearance. The acne scar removal treatment you choose will depend greatly on the type of scar you are treating.