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Atrophic Scars (Hollow Scars)
Definition:
Small holes in the skin surface of varying size and depth (hollow appearance). There are three different shapes: "V" or "ice pick" (the scar is one to two millimeters in diameter and a few millimeters deep), "U" or "crater" (the diameter is larger but it is shallower) and "quadrangular" (wide with an edge on the skin, deep). They appear when the upper layers of the skin are damaged, as well as the deeper layers. The skin is then unable to restore itself to its original state. The wound is therefore replaced by a granulating tissue composed of collagen fibers. These fibers fill the wound from the inside out and help repair the damaged area of the skin. This replacement tissue helps to heal the wound, but can also remain visible.
Internal and external causes:
Blemishes, severe acne, chicken pox.
How to reduce or eliminate:
Depending on the severity, it is sometimes impossible to completely remove them. However, they can be reduced. There are several options depending on the depth and age of the marks (aesthetic medicine or surgery): dermatological peeling with TCA, infrared light, microdermabrasion, injection of hyaluronic acid or fat, microneedling, laser treatment, skin ablation, skin grafting, fractional radiofrequency.
Preventative steps to take:
Avoid manipulating, pinching or piercing your pimples. Consult a dermatologist to consider an appropriate treatment to reduce the acne and thus largely avoid the appearance of scars. Massage the area with gels and bandages containing silicone to minimize its unsightly appearance.
Related articles: Cicatrices atrophiques (cicatrices creuses)