Sunken or widened scars

Overview

Treating active acne early prevents new scars.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Sunken or widened scars

Look up a symptom: Thick, raised scar that keeps growing

When to get medical care

Causes

Acne, chickenpox, injury, surgery.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Severe acne

Possible complications

• Acne

Diagnosis

A dermatologist looks at the scars.

Treatment

Options can help.

Self-care

• Use sunscreen to keep scars from darkening
• Control active acne

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Lasers, microneedling, peels, fillers, or surgery.

Prevention

To prevent:

• Treat acne early
• Don't pick

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a dermatologist (skin doctor).

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people keep up normal school and work. Rest when you need to.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Can be improved.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

• Which treatment fits my scars?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Sunken or widened scars