Effective treatment of scars and scars with gels and creams

Scars and marks are not the decorations that make a woman cute and attractive. Yes, however, not all scars suit men either. But whatever the reason that left unaesthetic marks on a person's body, it is always possible to make them less noticeable or even disappear completely. It was precisely to solve this problem that a cream for scars and marks was developed at one time.

Gone are the days when unattractive skin irregularities were hidden under clothing or masked with a thick layer of makeup, which was not always effective. In the modern world, we have various methods of plastic surgery and hardware cosmetology at our disposal. And they give much better results than simple masking.

But such procedures have their drawbacks. Firstly, due to their high cost, they are not available to everyone. Secondly, various methods have their own risks, contraindications for use and side effects, which cannot always be calculated. In addition, a fairly long rehabilitation period causes a certain discomfort in patients of cosmetology clinics.

Another thing is creams for scars and cicatrices. The result of their use may not be as noticeable as in the case of surgery, but they are affordable and relatively safe for the patient's appearance and health.

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When do you need a scar cream?

Let's be honest, in some cases with minor skin damage (cuts, deep scratches, punctures), it is easier to prevent scars than to treat them later. For this purpose, there are special antibacterial agents that have a regenerating (restorative) effect on the skin. Such agents include Levomekol ointments, its cheaper analogue Levometil, Netran, Solcoseryl and the well-known Rescuer.

All these ointments are safe for health. Contraindications to their use are limited to hypersensitivity to the components of the ointment. Side effects in the form of allergic reactions (rash, itching, local redness of the skin) are also associated with this.

Pharmacodynamics. Ointments for the prevention of scar formation have an anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effect on the skin at the site of damage. In addition, they actively stimulate regenerative processes in the skin, which contributes to rapid healing of wounds without purulent processes, which means that traces of damage on the skin will subsequently be less noticeable and will disappear completely over time.

Even if a purulent process develops in the wound, the ointments remain active and provide the necessary antibacterial effect.

Pharmacokinetics. Antibacterial ointments are designed in such a way that they can easily penetrate into the deepest tissues and restore them from the inside. At the same time, only a small amount of the active substance gets into the blood, so that it cannot harm human health.

The method of application of creams used as a preventive measure against the appearance of scars is very simple. For shallow wounds, a small amount of ointment is applied to the affected area with light movements. If necessary, the wound can be loosely covered. If the wound is deep enough and pathological processes are developing in it, a sterile napkin or bandage soaked in ointment is loosely applied to the damaged tissue. The dressings must be changed every day. Treatment is continued until the wound heals.

Some antibacterial ointments can be stored at room temperature, while others (for example, Levomekol) require lower temperatures for storage. In order for the medicine to remain effective throughout its shelf life, it is necessary to take into account the storage conditions, information about which is always present on the drug packaging.

If you were unable to avoid the appearance of scars and cicatrices, there was no opportunity to take preventive measures in time, the treatment was ineffective in this regard, or the wound was too large, a special cream for scars and cicatrices will come to your aid. It will no longer affect the cause of the appearance of irregularities on the skin, but the irregularities themselves, making them less noticeable.

Since the reasons for the appearance of unaesthetic marks on the skin are famous for their diversity, the indications for the use of creams for scars and scars can be very diverse:

• The scars we are accustomed to from cuts and burns that form at the site of the wound. They are usually slightly lighter than the surrounding skin and can decrease in size on their own over time.
• Scars after significant mechanical trauma to the skin and tissues underneath, surgeries, severe or extensive burns (e.g. from a stream of steam, hot water or chemicals). The traces of such impact on the skin usually over time occupy an area larger than the original size of the wound and even rise above the surface of the skin.
• So-called "stretch marks" on the skin of women, which are a consequence of strong stretching of the skin during pregnancy. The same marks can remain after rapid weight loss.
• Traces of chickenpox, scars from acne and pimples.
• Decreased joint mobility due to the growth of strong connective tissue on the area of cartilage tissue (ankylosis).
• Contractures are scars that tighten muscles and tendons and prevent the joints from functioning properly.

Sometimes, a scar cream may be prescribed by your doctor as a preventive measure in the postoperative period. Such measures help to significantly reduce the visible traces of surgical intervention.

How do scar creams work?

Various creams and ointments for scars can have different effects on the skin and subcutaneous layers of the human body. The pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of these products depend on the active ingredients in the composition of the drug and the effect they have on a still fresh or already healed wound.

Some creams are intended to prevent scar formation and have an antibacterial and regenerating effect. They prevent the appearance of pus and pathological processes in the wound, increase the size of the wound, reduce inflammation and pain.

Others are effective in the early stages of scarring (healing) of the skin in damaged areas. They have an anti-inflammatory and regenerating effect. The active ingredients of such creams help restore microcirculation in tissues, stimulate the production of elastin and collagen, prevent the growth of connective tissue, and restore the skin's water balance.

The third ones are also active against old post-traumatic formations on the skin and tissues. The mechanism of their action is even more complex.

However, all scar creams intended for external use are safe for health. They penetrate into various layers of the skin and subcutaneous tissues quite easily, but do not accumulate in the blood a concentration that can have dangerous consequences for human health.

Like other medicinal products, any cream for scars and cicatrices may have its own contraindications for use. Most often, this is a predisposition to the development of hypersensitivity reactions to the drug. It is with this that the occurrence of side effects in creams is associated, manifesting themselves in the form of various allergic manifestations. In such cases, the place where the cream is applied may turn red and swell, begin to itch, become covered with a rash or small blisters. If such a reaction occurs, it is necessary to stop using the cream, replacing it with an ointment with a different composition.

Creams for the prevention of scar formation can be used on open wounds with inflammatory and purulent processes, which cannot be said about creams for getting rid of scars. Such creams cannot be applied to skin with ulcers, progressive tissue necrosis processes, open and fresh wounds, tumors in the area of the scar. It is unacceptable to use creams for scars on the skin in the eye area and on mucous membranes.

As for overdosing on scar creams, it is easy to avoid if you use the cream as directed, i.e. apply it externally, not internally. You should not use several products with the same active ingredient at the same time. If the active ingredients in the products are different, it is necessary to take into account the drug interaction of the scar creams used with other products. Such information can also be found in the instructions or obtained from a doctor.

The use of scar creams during pregnancy causes mixed opinions among experts. On the one hand, every young woman, including pregnant women, cares about the beauty of her body and skin. Precisely during pregnancy and breastfeeding, there is a high probability of stretch marks in the abdomen, hips and chest. Accordingly, young mothers are looking for a way to get rid of such a dubious decoration.

On the other hand, the active ingredients of many creams, even in small quantities, can penetrate the bloodstream and reach the child through blood or milk. And what is harmless to an adult organism can cause irreparable harm to the immature organism of a baby. Usually, the instructions for the drug contain a separate clause or instruction regarding the use of the product during pregnancy or breastfeeding. If there are no such instructions, it is better to consult a specialist doctor about the possibility of its use during such a delicate period.

Names and purpose of pharmacy creams for scars

Since correction of skin defects is a kind of medical procedure, pharmaceutical science has not remained aloof from this problem and has developed a whole range of creams used to treat scars and cicatrices. Such products can most often be seen on the shelves of pharmacies (pages of online pharmacies), and there is no doubt about their effectiveness and safety.

"Kontraktubeks" is a drug specially designed for the treatment of existing scars and cicatrices of various origins. It belongs to the category of combined drugs based on 3 active substances. It is produced in the form of a gel placed in aluminum tubes of 20 and 50 ml.

Pharmacodynamics. Due to the properties of the active substances, the drug has the ability to dissolve blood clots in the area of scar formation. The presence of onion extract in the composition of the drug causes a noticeable anti-inflammatory effect of the cream, and the heparin present in it prevents the formation of new blood clots. The penetration of these substances into the skin is facilitated by allantoin, which softens the keratinized dense layer of the scar and kills harmful microorganisms in it, preventing inflammation.

Pharmacokinetics. When applied externally, despite the deep penetration of active substances into the connective tissue of the dermis, they do not enter the bloodstream. This makes the use of Contractubex cream safe for the treatment of children, pregnant women and nursing mothers.

The drug has no other contraindications for use, except for individual intolerance to the components of the drug. It is generally safe and very rarely causes minor allergic reactions, which quickly disappear if the drug is discontinued.

The method of application of the cream against scars "Kontraktubeks" and its dosage depend on the size of the scar or cicatrice. 5 mm of gel is designed for a scar surface of about 25 cm ². The cream is applied to the surface of the scar with light massaging movements. It is recommended to do this 2-3 times a day.

The course of treatment will depend on the diagnosis and age of the scar tissue. If the scar is fresh, then 1 month of use is enough to obtain the desired result. Old scars require longer treatment, which can last up to six months. In case of contractures, treatment can last up to 1 year.

The cream "Kontraktubeks" is also effective against chickenpox scars, due to its softening and smoothing properties. However, treatment of this condition can take up to 3 months.

The gel can also be used for preventive purposes, but in this case the wound must already be completely healed, and the connective tissue in the wound must be sufficiently compacted.

To obtain the expected effect, the cream must be used within the expiration date, which is 4 years, provided it is stored at room temperature.

"Zeraderm Ultra" is another fairly safe and effective scar cream that can be safely used on the face and for the treatment of postoperative and traumatic scars in children. It is also effective against chickenpox and acne scars.

The drug is also produced in the form of a gel, but its effect is significantly different from the effect of the previous drug.

Pharmacodynamics. When drying on the skin, the gel forms a silicone film on its surface that is almost invisible to the eye, which protects the scar from injury, prevents the skin from losing moisture at the scar site, and this in turn helps to soften the scar tissue and smooth it out. The cream is also supplied with the coenzyme of youth Q10, vitamins A and E, and a UV filter. Such a rich composition of the preparation ensures complete restoration of the skin at the scar site and its noticeable rejuvenation.

The drug has no special contraindications for use and side effects, except for those mentioned above. No cases of overdose or negative drug interactions have been noted. It is considered the optimal remedy for combating facial scars, since it does not interfere with the use of decorative cosmetics. The only nuance: cosmetics should be applied over the gel, not under it.

The gel is well tolerated by adults and children. And the lack of smell is another advantage of the drug.

Directions for use. Apply the gel to clean skin with gentle movements, pressing and spreading it over the surface in a thin layer. It is better to remove excess cream with a clean napkin, blotting the area of application until the product dries. This should be done 2 times a day. The duration of treatment will depend on many factors, but usually the expected result occurs in a period of 2 weeks to 6 months.

The cream should be stored at room temperature, but it must be protected from moisture and direct sunlight.

Dermatix gel is in some sense an analogue of the drug Zeraderm Ultra, also forming a protective film on the site of the scar. It is used both for the treatment of fresh scars and for preventive purposes, for example, to prevent the appearance of stretch marks on the skin during pregnancy. Quite good reviews of the drug can be found from people who used this cream to get rid of old scars.

Do not think that the silicone film will create a greenhouse effect on the skin. It retains moisture in the layers of the skin, allowing oxygen to pass through and allowing the skin to breathe. The film improves the elasticity of the skin and creates the necessary conditions for reducing the size and saturation of the color (pigmentation) of the scar. In addition, it creates comfortable conditions for skin renewal and reduces the symptoms of scar healing (tightening, itching).

Like the previous product, Dermatix is recommended to be used twice a day. The best option is morning and evening. After applying a thin layer of gel to clean and dry skin, wait until it dries completely. If this does not happen after 5 minutes, remove excess gel from the skin surface with a soft napkin, preventing the film from compacting.

Contraindications to the use of the gel are limited to allergic reactions to the drug. Accordingly, side effects are extremely rare. This may be increased skin pigmentation at the site of application, minor itching or pain. The gel should not be applied over other skin care products, including medicinal creams and ointments.

"Dermatix" can be used on the face. There is no information that it can be dangerous for the child's body, since its action is limited to the skin layers, and the substances of the gel do not enter the blood.

The liquid cream-gel "Skarguard", containing silicone and glucocorticosteroids, is more likely to be found in online pharmacies than in regular ones. In addition, it is the most expensive of all the above-mentioned, far from cheap drugs. This is a kind of unique drug that has no analogues in the composition of active substances.

The manufacturers of the liquid gel claim that their brainchild is capable of dealing with both new and old traces of skin trauma with great efficiency, as well as preventing the appearance of new scar formations. Considering that the popularity of the drug is growing, despite the high price, the manufacturers are not deceiving.

This scar cream was initially loved by plastic surgeons and then became more widespread. It is not a cream in the literal sense of the word, it is rather a liquid gel that is sold in a glass bottle with a brush cap, with the help of which the gel is applied to the skin.

Pharmacodynamics. Silicone, forming a protective film on the skin, promotes tissue hydration and deeper penetration of active substances. Glucocorticosteroid hydrocortisone is known for its anti-inflammatory effect, in addition, it prevents the proliferation of connective tissue. It also relieves symptoms of irritation, swelling in the area of scarred tissue, itching. The introduction of vitamin E into the composition of the drug promotes cell rejuvenation, increased skin elasticity. The surface of the scar is significantly softened, and its color becomes less saturated.

It is recommended to use the gel twice daily. The process of scar "reconstruction" can take from 1 to 6 months.

Contraindications for use. It is not recommended to use the gel for treating children under 12 years of age due to the possibility of side effects in the form of endocrine disorders. The use of such creams for scars during pregnancy is more than undesirable. Liquid gel cannot be used on open wounds, in case of inflammatory and oncological processes on the skin, as well as in case of hypersensitivity to the components of the drug.

Another silicone gel with a funny "cat" name "Kelo-cote" has gained great popularity and many positive reviews. Its effect is similar to the drug "Dermatix", and the price is quite high. Nevertheless, this effective cream for fresh and old scars successfully holds high positions in the sales rating of online pharmacies.

The basis of the preparation is polysiloxane and silicone dioxide. The latter is considered the most effective local remedy for the treatment of scars. Forming a film that compresses the skin and maintaining the skin's water balance, silicone seems to smooth the skin, eliminating unaesthetic bulges and dents. The whip creates a microclimate underneath itself, promoting the optimization of collagen production, which prevents connective tissue under the skin from growing uncontrollably.

Method of application. To achieve the desired effect, it is enough to apply the cream once a day. At the same time, exposed parts of the body require a single application, but areas that often come into contact with clothing are recommended to be lubricated twice and not covered with clothing until completely dry (5 minutes).

The Kelo-cote scar cream is not used in the mucous membranes and eyes, on fresh wounds and in the presence of skin irritation reactions. Pregnancy and lactation are not contraindications to the use of the cream, but it still makes sense to discuss the safety of using this scar cream during pregnancy and breastfeeding with your doctor.

"Kelofibrase" is a highly effective cream for scars and cicatrices based on urea and sodium heparin. Its advantages: good results, no contraindications, well-moisturized skin without traces of cream, economical consumption.

Pharmacodynamics. Urea has a healing effect on scar tissue. It not only perfectly moisturizes and softens the surface of scar tissue, but also makes it elastic and less noticeable. Heparin improves metabolism and blood circulation in tissues adjacent to the scar. Thanks to it, the feeling of tightness in the scar area is eliminated, the skin surface becomes even and smooth, without swelling and compaction. Camphor has an analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect, improves cellular nutrition of the skin.

Kelofibrase cream is considered an excellent preventive measure against stretch marks. It can be used during pregnancy. The cream has no age-related contraindications for use. At the same time, its insufficient effectiveness is noted in relation to stretch marks that have already appeared on the skin and dense atrophic scars.

Method of application. To obtain a decent effect from the use of this cream, it is recommended to use it 2 to 4 times a day, combining it with a massage of the scar area. Such an effect will contribute to a faster softening of the scar tissue. The older the scars are, the more often and actively they should be massaged and the cream applied. In difficult cases, it is possible to use the cream in the form of night compresses on the scar area.

"Fermencol" is a cream with an unusual composition, the active substance of which is a complex of 9 collagenases, which are extracted from the digestive organs of marine inhabitants. This is a non-toxic enzyme preparation capable of destroying excess collagen in the scar area, preventing the growth of scar tissue, reducing the scar in size and making it less noticeable. It also relieves itching, pain and discomfort in the scar area.

The cream is considered a wonderful preventive measure, but is also effective in the case of scars that have already formed on the skin. It can be used starting from 3-4 weeks after the wound has healed. In the form of a solution, Fermencol is used in electrophoresis procedures, and the cream can simply be applied to the skin in the area of the scar. This should be done every day for 1.5-2 weeks.

"Klirvin" is a natural herbal cream for scars and cicatrices with a wide range of applications. Due to the caring properties and safety of the product, it is successfully used to eliminate dark circles and bags under the eyes, rejuvenate aging skin, lighten pigment spots, moisturize dry skin, and also to get rid of stretch marks during pregnancy (starting from the 2nd trimester). The cream is also an effective remedy for acne.

This is an Ayurvedic medicine, so it has a unique composition. It is based on herbal extracts. It is the composition of the drug that is associated with its contraindications for use, described in the instructions in the form of hypersensitivity to individual herbs in the cream. The cream is approved for use as a remedy for children.

The method of application of the preparation is typical for anti-scar creams. With daily application of the cream to clean skin twice a day, the treatment can last 1-1.5 months.

Other Scar Creams

It just so happens that effective scar creams can be purchased not only in pharmacies, but also in online stores and even in beauty salons.

Scar and cicatricial cream "Melt" is a cosmetic cream with a specific therapeutic effect. The composition of the preparation contains only natural components: vitamins, plant extracts and oils, salicylic acid, sulfur, glucosamine, so it is completely safe for human health and well-being. The exception is cases of individual intolerance to the components of the cream.

The action of the cream is based on the activation of intracellular metabolism and regulation of the blood coagulation process in the scar area. The penetration of the cream deep into the skin and subcutaneous layers for therapeutic effect is due to a special microencapsulation technology.

It can be applied 2 or 3 times a day until the desired effect is achieved. This cream not only helps to make scars less visible and pronounced, it also simultaneously eliminates other skin irregularities, such as traces of pimples, acne and chickenpox.

The cream with the unusual school name "Eraser" is another product of Ayurvedic medicine. Prevention and treatment of scars and stretch marks is only one of its areas of activity. In fact, this is a wonderful skin care cream with many beneficial effects, which are provided by numerous extracts and oils of medicinal herbs from India and the East. It is also remarkable that with all the richness of the composition and a lot of positive reviews, the price of the cream can only please buyers. This is one of the cheapest remedies for scars.

So, the cream has a moisturizing, softening, toning, anti-inflammatory, bactericidal, rejuvenating effect. It also contains whitening, antifungal and protective components that protect the skin from the negative impact of environmental and weather factors. The cream effectively relieves itching and swelling, regulates metabolic processes in the skin, including the production of subcutaneous fat, stimulates the processes of regeneration (restoration) of cells, which is the reason for its positive transformative and soothing effect on scar tissue.

Since the cream is rich in plant components, contraindications to its use are associated with the response of the immune system, manifested in the form of allergic reactions to individual components of the cream.

In general, the cream is safe and is approved for use as a therapeutic and preventive remedy for getting rid of skin imperfections in children and adolescents, as well as in women during pregnancy and breastfeeding. However, in such situations, there is always a need for additional consultation with a specialist doctor.

And you can do an allergy test yourself by applying a small amount of cream to the skin of your wrist and observing the reaction for 1-2 days. A small delay will not harm the treatment, but will help to avoid unpleasant consequences.

Ayurvedic remedies are quite popular in anti-scar therapy. This is confirmed by the cream "Boro Kare Loren". Initially, it was positioned as an anti-inflammatory, drying and bactericidal remedy against acne and pimples. The cream not only effectively fights acne, but also prevents its occurrence.

These properties of the cream have also proven useful in healing fresh scars, especially postoperative ones. Its effect is relevant both for fresh wounds (even festering ones), cuts, burns and bites, and for scarred tissue. The cream effectively relieves swelling and inflammation, relieves pain, eliminates itching and tightness at the site of wound healing, promotes skin regeneration and lightens pigmentation at the site of the scar.

The cream is so harmless that it is recommended to use it as a softening and soothing skin product for babies, as well as an anti-inflammatory agent after shaving.

"Nuobisong" - a Chinese cream for scars and cicatrices based on natural components once again confirms that the word "Chinese" does not mean "bad", unless, of course, it is not a cheap fake. In addition, the technology of the cream is not Chinese, but Swiss. By the way, original products from China are valued all over the world for their quality and use of natural, most often plant components.

It is also a broad-spectrum care cream with a noticeable therapeutic effect, helping to combat various skin imperfections such as dryness, flabbiness, acne, irritation and flaking of the skin, age spots, scars and marks.

Since this is not a specialized healing cream for scars and cicatrices, its effectiveness is directly dependent on the age of the scar. With regard to small fresh scars, the cream is quite effective, making them almost invisible, but old and large scars are more difficult to correct with this product.

A noticeable therapeutic and cosmetic effect is achieved if you use the cream 2 to 4 times a day. To get a quick and good result, combine the application of the cream with a massage of the skin in the scar area. After drying, the cream forms a protective film on the skin, which allows you to use it to protect the skin in cold, windy weather.

Since the cream is a composition of natural substances, it has virtually no contraindications for use. Allergic reactions to the drug are extremely rare. The cream has a good bactericidal and drying effect, so it can be applied as a preventive measure even to small wounds and cuts.

High efficiency, complete skin care, economical use, low price and pleasant smell are the reasons why you should still try the Chinese Nuobisong scar cream.

According to the manufacturer, the Pasjel Precious Skin cream made in Thailand contains collagen, vitamins and other natural ingredients (oils, seed extracts, plant extracts). It is positioned as a unique product for the prevention and treatment of stretch marks on the skin, which effectively fights other types of scars. However, we were unable to find any relevant certificates or real reviews of the product. Therefore, it is better to consult with specialists about the possibility and advisability of using this cream. And especially if the stretch marks are caused by carrying a child.

Those who prefer inexpensive but effective domestic products should pay attention to the cream for scars and cicatrices from the 911 series - "Balm 911 No Scars". This is also a fairly effective natural product based on plant materials. Its only drawback is the impossibility of use during pregnancy due to the presence of milk thistle oil in the composition.

Speaking about anti-scar creams, it is worth dwelling on another popular product in this area – Bio-Oil oil from the Swedish company Cederroth, which, despite the most controversial reviews, is considered one of the best products for correcting skin imperfections.

It contains vitamins, mineral and vegetable oils necessary for the skin, which have wound-healing, anti-burn, anti-inflammatory, soothing and regenerating properties.

Oil "Bio-Oil" is able to completely cure stretch marks and noticeably correct the appearance of scars. In addition, the product perfectly softens, moisturizes and rejuvenates the skin, evening out the skin tone, removing excess pigmentation.

The oil effectively affects both fresh scars and already deep-rooted ones. It is effective for the prevention and treatment of stretch marks in pregnant women (from the 4th month) and after a sharp change in weight.

Bio-Oil oil, like any cream for scars and cicatrices, requires long-term use. The result from using the oil occurs after 4 months of daily use (when used 2 times a day). This fact, combined with the high price, is the reason for most of the negative reviews. However, beauty requires sacrifice, so the popularity of the product, despite everything, remains an indicator of its effectiveness.