SCARS FAQs

What is Scar Tissue?

Scar tissue is a dense, fibrous tissue that forms during the healing process following an injury or trauma to the skin or underlying tissues.  It occurs when the body repairs damaged cells, primarily through the reproduction of collagen, resulting in tissue that is structurally different from the original. 

Normal skin’s collagen fibres are aligned in a way that allows for elasticity and functionality however, scar tissue often exhibits a disorganised collagen structure, leading to reduced flexibility and altered skin appearance.  This change can cause limitations in movement and may be accompanied by discomfort or sensitivity in the affected area. 

Scar tissue can vary in colour, texture and thickness, depending on the severity of the initial injury and the body’s healing process.

Are There Different Types of Scars?

There are various types of scars that can develop on the skin, each with distinct characteristics and responses to treatment.  The most commonly observed scars are

• Hypertrophic scars, which are characterized by a thicker, raised and often discoloured surface that remains within the boundaries of the original wound. 
• Conversely, atrophic scars, typically resulting from conditions like acne, present as sunken or depressed areas on the skin. 
• Keloid scars are a rarer form, emerging beyond the original wound edges and exhibiting a raised appearance; they can occur spontaneously and are known for their challenging treatment due to their unpredictable growth. 

Understanding these types is crucial for determining appropriate management options.

Treatment Options For Scar Revision

Skin Needling

Skin needling (also called microneedling) is a minimally invasive skin treatment that uses a device with very fine, sterile needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin.

These tiny channels trigger the body’s natural wound-healing response, which stimulates:

• Collagen production
• Breakdowns old scar tissue
• Elastin production
• Skin renewal and repair

Here at CRC we use a needling device with a needle depth of 2.5mm. Topical anaesthetic cream is applied prior to treatment so that minimal discomfort is felt.

Post treatment, clients can expect their skin to initially exhibit signs resembling moderate to severe sunburn, which may include mild swelling and pinpoint bleeding.  This response  typically subsides within 24 to 48 hours.  During the first few weeks, the skin may feel tight as it begins to heal.  It is essential to note that collagen formation is a gradual process; therefore, optimal results may take up to three months to manifest.  

How many treatments are required?

The number of treatments required can vary depending on the type of scar being revised. Improvements are seen following one treatment, however in most cases multiple treatments of 3 to 4 treatments are usually required.  

Pearl Fractional Laser

Pearl fractional laser is an advanced resurfacing treatment designed to improve the appearance of scar tissue by creating controlled micro-injury within the skin. Using fractional technology, the laser delivers precise columns of thermal energy into the dermis while leaving surrounding tissue intact, supporting faster healing and optimal results.

This process stimulates the body’s natural wound-healing response, promoting collagen remodelling and skin regeneration. As new collagen forms, scar tissue becomes smoother, softer, and more evenly blended with the surrounding skin.

Topical anaesthetic cream is applied to the treated area 30 minutes prior to commencing treatment. This minimises discomfort felt from the laser, however clients will still feel a moderate level of heat- similar to the sensation of a bad sunburn.

What can I expect to see following the treatment?

Immediately following a resurfacing laser treatment, clients can expect the skin to appear red, warm, and mildly swollen — similar to the feeling and appearance of sunburn. Depending on the intensity of the treatment, there may be areas of pinpoint bleeding and oozing and the skin may also feel tight, sensitive, or slightly tender.

Over the next few days, some dryness, flaking, or peeling is common as the skin begins its natural renewal process. Clients may also notice tiny darkened spots or a bronzed appearance before the skin resurfaces this off.

Downtime and recovery will vary depending on the intensity of the laser treatment, and you will be provided with a post care kit with instructions which contains everything you will need to use on the skin post treatment to support healing and optimise results.

 Collagen peaks around 12 weeks post treatment, with continuous improvements observed for up to 12 months post-treatment. 

How many treatments are required?

As this is a more aggressive treatment option, fewer treatments are usually required. The intervals between treatments are usually more spaced out to allow the skin enough time to heal and regenerate. As a result, many individuals experience significant improvements in skin texture and appearance after just one treatment, however the type of scarring being treated will determine how many treatments will be required.

Scar Revision Cost

All consultations are with our dermal clinician and cost $55.00.  A consultation is required to determine the best treatment option for scar revision. 

• Skin Needling (full face treatment)
• Price: $365.00

• Pearl Fractionated Laser (full face treatment)
• Price: Determined at consultation (Treatment pricing starts from $899.00)