Finger scars are a common occurrence, as the hands are constantly being used for performing work duties, playing and doing just about every other activity. It is no wonder that statistics show that one out of every six work-related injuries involve the fingers. A finger scar can result from cuts, burns, bites and blunt force. Although these wounds heal over time, they often leave behind unsightly scarring.

What Causes A Scar?

Scarring occurs due to collagen growth under the skin as the wound is healing. All injuries to the skin result in a scar. Depending on the injury, scars may be faint, mild or severe. They usually take from a year to two years after the injury to become fully mature. Finger scars can also result from skin diseases, such as fungal and bacterial disease.

Different Types of Scars

There are three different types of scars; keloidal, hypertrophic and atrophic. Keloidals appear as expansive and elevated areas that continue to grow larger. These types are actually benign tumors that have formed due to scar tissue exceeding the area of the injury. Hypertrophy scarring appears elevated, but subsides over time. Atrophic types appear as a hole or valley in the skin. Most do eventually fade or disappear, although some can be long lasting.

Scar Treatments

For serious scarring of the fingers, surgery or laser treatments can help to diminish them. Hypertrophic types are most affected by lasers, whereas atrophic types are more often treated with standard plastic surgery. Injections of a steroid medication can also help reduce inflammation and reduce the appearance of scars.

Instead of or in addition to surgery, silicone patches or silicone scar gel is another scar treatment that has proven to help improve the appearance of scarring. These treatment devices are effective for all types of scars. They soften, smooth and improve the color, thickness and texture of the affected skin. They also stop the pain and itching that is often associated with scarring. Patches and sheeting come in a wide variety of sizes and are easily applied with self-adhesive sheeting.

Scar cream is another treatment option that helps to repair the scar while restoring the skin to its natural color and texture. Some of these creams contain an ingredient that actually helps the body to naturally eliminate scar tissue in a rapid manner. Some creams available are all natural for safely and effectively clearing up scars. They also help reduce pain and itching that occurs during the scarring process. Additional kinds of treatments include healing kits that contain both silicone patches and cream for double healing strength and derma rolling or skin micro needling.