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Scars. Everything you need to know

We offer evidence-based treatments for all types of scars

Scarring is a common part of the skin’s healing process, but it can often be a source of frustration and impact a patient’s confidence. Every scar is unique and can be formed as a result of acne, an injury, surgery, or skin conditions. While scars are common, effective treatment requires expert care, and there isn’t a single solution that works for everyone. At Northside Dermatology, our dermatologists offer a wide range of scar treatment options tailored to your skin type, scar type, and goals.

We combine advanced techniques such as subcision, laser resurfacing, and chemical reconstruction (TCA CROSS) to smooth texture, improve pigmentation, and enhance skin appearance over time.

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Scars
Treatments

Understanding Scars

A scar forms when the deeper layers of your skin are injured and the body produces collagen to heal the wound. While this process repairs the damage, it often leaves an area of skin that looks or feels different from the surrounding tissue. Scars can result from acne, surgery, burns, cuts, or other trauma.

Although scars are permanent, the right treatment plan can significantly improve their appearance, texture and overall comfort.

 

Types of Scars

Scars vary widely in their appearance and behaviour. Understanding the type of scar is important in determining the most effective treatment approach.

 

Acne Scars
Acne scars can develop after moderate to severe breakouts, especially if the skin becomes inflamed or damaged. They may appear as indented (atrophic) scars, raised (hypertrophic) scars, or post-inflammatory pigmentation. Treatments focus on improving skin texture and tone through collagen stimulation, resurfacing, and targeted skincare.

Find our more about: Acne Scars

 

Atrophic or Depressed Scars
These scars sit below the surface of the skin and often appear as small indentations or uneven texture. They are most commonly caused by inflammatory acne, chickenpox or other deep skin injury. Treatments aim to rebuild collagen and smooth the skin’s surface.

 

Hypertrophic Scars
These are raised, firm scars that remain within the boundary of the original wound. They often appear red or pink and may feel tight or itchy. Treatments can help flatten these scars and reduce redness or discomfort.

 

Keloid Scars
Keloids are thicker, raised scars that grow beyond the original wound. They can develop months after the initial injury and are more common in darker skin types. Because they have a higher risk of recurrence, treatment often requires a careful, staged approach.

Find out more about: Keloid Scar Treatments

 

Surgical or Linear Scars
These occur after incisions or excisions, such as from surgery or mole removal. Depending on how the wound heals, these scars can be flat, raised or slightly indented. Treatments can help soften and blend these scars with the surrounding skin.

 

Contracture Scars
Often caused by burns or deep wounds, these scars tighten as they heal and can restrict movement. Management may include laser therapy or, in some cases, surgical revision.

 

Stretch Marks (Striae)
Although technically a form of scarring, stretch marks develop differently,  when the skin stretches faster than collagen and elastin can adapt. They often appear as red or white streaks on the abdomen, thighs, hips or breasts. Treatments that rebuild collagen, such as fractional laser and microneedling, can help improve their texture and appearance. 

Find out more about: Stretch Marks

 

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Why Scars Form and Persist

Several factors influence how visible or prominent a scar becomes, including:

  • The depth and severity of the original injury

  • Skin type and tone

  • Location of the scar (areas under tension or movement tend to thicken)

  • Delayed healing or infection

  • Genetic tendency towards overactive scarring

Proper wound care and early intervention can greatly reduce the likelihood of scarring.

Treatments

At Northside Dermatology, we understand that treating a scar effectively means understanding its full story. At your initial consultation, we will perform a thorough assessment to determine the scar’s type, its underlying cause, and how your specific skin will respond to treatment.

This detailed approach allows us to create a custom-designed treatment plan that often combines several advanced techniques. Our goal is to significantly improve the texture and appearance of your scar with a plan tailored specifically to you. Learn about some of the scar treatments we have available below. 

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Subcision Treatment
Subcision is a surgical technique used to release fibrous scar tissue that pulls the skin down, creating a depressed acne scar. A dermatologist inserts a fine needle beneath the scar to break up these fibres, allowing the skin to lift and smooth over time.
Best for: Rolling or tethered scars
Down time: 3–5 days (mild swelling/bruising)
Comments: Often combined with laser or filler for enhanced results
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TCA Cross Treatment
TCA Cross Section
TCA CROSS stands for ‘TriChloroacetic Acid Chemical Reconstruction Of Skin Scars’. During the procedure, a specialist dermatologist applies a small amount of high-concentration TCA directly to the scar.
Best for: Deep ice pick scars
Down time: 3-7 days
Comments: For optimal results, most patients need two to four procedures.
Learn More
CO2 Laser Acne Scars
CO2 Laser
Fractional CO2 laser works by creating controlled micro-injuries in the skin, stimulating natural healing and collagen production. This smooths out irregular skin texture and softens the appearance of scars over a course of treatments.
Best for: Boxcar scars, mixed acne scarring
Down time: 5–10 days (redness, peeling)
Comments: Strong results after a series of treatments; requires sun protection post-treatment
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Nanofractional Laser For Acne Scars
Nanofractional Laser
Nanofractional radiofrequency laser delivers precise energy deep into the skin to resurface scarred areas and promote collagen remodelling. Unlike CO2, it has a shorter recovery time and is suitable for a wider range of skin tones.
Best for: Mild to moderate acne scars, all skin types
Down time: 1–3 days (redness, mild swelling)
Comments: Usually requires multiple sessions; gradual improvement seen over weeks
Learn More
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Personalised Scar Treatment Plans

Northside Dermatology is a leading provider of evidence-based scar treatments in North Fitzroy and Reservoir. Our clinic is equipped with advanced dermatological technologies to address a wide range of scarring concerns, including acne scars, surgical scars, injury-related scarring, and pigmentation changes.

Dr Liu, our principal dermatologist, has extensive experience in treating both new and longstanding scars. Each treatment plan is tailored to your skin type, the nature of the scarring, and your individual goals. Options may include laser therapy, medical-grade skincare, microneedling, injectables, or a combination of approaches to help restore smoother, more even-toned skin.

Whether you’re seeking to minimise the appearance of scars or improve skin texture and confidence, we’re here to provide expert care and guidance.

Book an examination to receive a personalised scar treatment plan and take the next step toward clearer, healthier-looking skin.

Book your consult now

Acne Scar Gallery

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Frequently asked questions

Can a scar be completely removed?

While no treatment can fully erase a scar and restore the skin to its exact pre-injury state, a specialist dermatologist can significantly improve its texture, colour, and overall appearance. Our goal is to make the scar as smooth and unnoticeable as possible, helping it blend better with the surrounding skin.

How long after an injury should I wait to seek scar treatment?

The sooner, the better. While we must wait until the wound is fully closed and healed, the first few months are a critical period when a scar is actively developing and remodelling. Early intervention (sometimes with simple at-home care advice and other times with professional treatments) can often prevent a scar from becoming severely raised or discoloured. We can treat older scars, but early advice from a specialist is highly recommended.

What are the most common treatments used for scars?

There is no single “best” treatment; successful scar revision nearly always involves a combination of modalities. Common treatments we use include:

  • Laser Therapy: To improve colour, flatten texture, and stimulate collagen.
  • Injections: Such as corticosteroids to flatten raised or hypertrophic scars.
  • Microneedling & RF Microneedling: To break down old scar tissue and stimulate fresh collagen.
  • Dermal Fillers: To raise depressed or indented scars (like some acne scars).

Your personalised plan will involve the best combination for your scar type.

What is the most important thing I can do at home to help my scar heal?

The two most crucial steps for new scars are sun protection and moisture/massage.

  1. Strict Sun Protection: UV exposure makes a new scar darker and more noticeable. Always cover the scar or use a high-SPF, broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) daily.
  2. Gentle Massage and Hydration: Once the wound is fully healed, a gentle massage with a recommended moisturiser or silicone product helps soften the scar tissue and can encourage flexible collagen formation.
What is the best treatment for scars?

There isn’t one “best” treatment,  it depends on the type of scar, how long you’ve had it, and your skin type. At Northside Dermatology, your dermatologist will assess the scar and may recommend laser therapy, microneedling, chemical resurfacing, injections or a combination approach for optimal results.

 

How many treatments will I need?

Most scar treatments are performed as a course over several months. The number of sessions varies depending on the severity of the scar and how your skin responds, but gradual, staged treatments generally achieve the most natural improvement.

 

Is scar treatment painful?

Most treatments are well tolerated. For procedures such as laser or microneedling, we use topical anaesthetic creams to minimise discomfort. You may experience mild redness or swelling afterward, which typically settles within a few days.

 

Can raised scars like keloids be treated?

Yes, but they can be more challenging to manage and have a higher chance of recurrence. Treatments may include corticosteroid or injections, laser therapy, or silicone dressings. Your dermatologist will tailor a plan suited to your skin and scar type.

 

How long will it take to see results?

Most patients start to notice improvement after a few weeks, with continued progress over several months as new collagen forms and the scar remodels. Results continue to refine with each treatment session.

 

Melasma & Pigmentation Treatments

Get Your Tailored Scar Treatment Plan

We use the latest, state-of-the-art technology to treat your scars. Talk to one of our expert dermatologists today about a tailored scar treatment plan. We’re here to help you achieve healthy, beautiful skin. 

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Visit Our Clinics

Northside Dermatology operates in state-of-the-art facilities in Fitzroy North and Reservoir. All scar treatments are performed by trained doctors or dermatologists, ensuring your skin is in the safest hands.

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