What is Scar Removal Cream?

Scar removal cream is a topical treatment that constitutes ingredients that help eliminate already existing scars on a person’s skin. It is an at-home remedy manufactured with the sole intention of restoring the skin to its normal and natural state.

Except for a few, the odd look of a scar fades with time. However, scar therapies work to catalyze this process. Scar removal creams depending on the active ingredients, work in different ways to achieve this feat.

In comparison to steroid injections, laser therapy, surgery, and other procedures, it is safe to say that the scar removal cream is more affordable and easier to undergo.

Does it Completely Get Rid of Scars?

Bearing in mind that the majority of scars would fade on their own over time, scar creams do so much to rapidly and drastically improve the outlook of the scars. The cream helps to change the color and feel of scars, causing them to look more like the natural skin in a shorter time.  

Creams and lotions work topically and so they mainly target the appearance of scars. Therefore, it's best to tag scar creams as scar treatments with diminishing effects and not as erasers.

Would they Work for all Scar Types (Disorders)?

Honestly, not all scars are resolved with the simple procedure of applying a cream to the area affected. Especially since the severity of the scar is the major determiner. Another important factor in the actual makeup-active ingredients of the cream you opt to use.

Nonetheless, with the right scar removal cream, there would always be an improvement in the look. No matter how little.

How Does the Removal Cream Work?

Effective scar cream treatment works to even out the appearance of the scared area with the natural skin tone. Scar removal creams have different ingredients hence different mechanisms of action. Notwithstanding, the primary approach for topicals in scar revision is hydration.

With hydration, cell growth is promoted, scars can soften, flatten, and even smooth out. All of these put together, improves the overall scar appearance. An example of a good hydrating agent is silicone. Other ingredients are vitamin E oil and allantoin.

Some other scar removal creams also approach the scars as mild exfoliating agents that get rid of the dead skin cells.

Is ‘Cream Therapy’ the Best Option for Scar Removal?

The answer to this question isn't so straightforward as 'best' would be relative. For emphasis, there are different scar types, each with its specific needs. So, this would go a long way in determining what treatment method would most effective in restoring the natural look and ability of a damaged skin area. If for example, I am dealing with a scar that looks like a hollowed-out area on my skin, injections in comparison to creams, would be a better option.

Despite all of the above, some cream options can minimize a variety of scars effectively. Another thing about this over-the-counter treatment is the fact that you get a scar revision option that is easy to go by at an affordable rate. That is good news if money is a crucial factor considered.

How Long Would it Take to See Noticeable Changes?

In a bid to be sure you are making the right decision, you might want to know the duration the cream would run on to bring about transformations. This is most relatable if you have a time-bound goal.

On average, scar creams take roughly a month to two to yield glaring changes and, this is very much applicable to the brands available in the Philippines. The skin cycle is about 14-30 days and, scar removal creams work with this pattern. Therefore, in ideal instances, slight changes would be noticed, even in weeks. It is still mostly dependent on how old and severe the scar in question is.

Can They be Used Before the Skin Injuries Heal Up Completely?

In simple words, 'No, they can't.' While the wound is healing, it is very vulnerable to infections because the skin is still very tender. Applying a scar cream to a healing wound can expose the area to infection. Moreover, this is unnecessary at this stage.

Usually, scars form under the skin surface during the healing process and, they don't become visible on the epidermal layer until after the wound has healed completely.

So When Can Treatment with the Scar Removal Cream Start?

Your best bet is to consult your doctor before you start any scar therapy-even topical treatments. It is most important to do so when your injuries are very critical. In minor cases where you decide to use a scar removal cream, you can start when the wound has completely healed which would mean the absence of itching, pain, and scabs.

At this time, the scars start to fill in with collagen so, the creams are most effective in this phase. Of course, it doesn't mean that you can use the scar removal cream long after the scar has formed. It is just that the cream would act as a preventive agent when it is used in the scar healing stage.

How About Using the Scar Removal Creams Alongside Other Therapies?

Yes, this is possible. However, your physician would be in the best position to give further advice as regards what you could combine and how.

How Can the Scar Removal Cream be used Effectively?

Some basic things would have to go along with applying the cream for the scar healing ( or prevention) process to yield results.

• Protect the scar from sunlight: The best way to do this is to make sure you apply sunscreen on the affected area together with the scar removal cream. Recommendations made advice that you use the scar treatment cream before the sunscreen. Another alternative is to wear protective clothing, especially for the area where the cream is applied.
• You can enhance the cream's action: Things like applying compression such as a bandage and massaging the area can help make the cream action more effective. Discuss all the possible options with your doctor.
• Follow the instructions strictly: This can be hard, especially if you struggle with consistency. However, you should understand that you are left with no other option if you want to see results in no time. The instructions also include the frequency of usage. 
• Ensure the affected area is clean before using the topical. Wash and dry!
• Patience is vital. Eagerness to see changes would rip you of the happiness and satisfaction that could be enjoyed later when you start to see changes.

Is it Safe to Use on Every Body Part?

Most scar removal creams contain ingredients that have been tested and clinically approved. And yes, some scar creams could target particular scar types better but, none, not even in recent times, is limited to a specific body area.

To be sure you are not doing yourself more harm than good, go through the instructions provided and stick with them. It is like the best way to guarantee you are using it right on the concerned area or body part.

Are there Possible Side Effects?

As they are topical treatments, side effects (for some people) is likely. Although, some of the scar removal creams are generally better tolerated than others. A wise thing to do is read the full label to and check through all the ingredients to prevent avoidable harm to your skin.

What Should You Consider Before Purchasing a Scar Removal Cream?

Walking into a store to quickly get an OTC scar treatment without any prior decision making isn't so beneficial. Take some time to do a little research so that you would know what to look out for in the removal creams.

Check for:

1. Compatibility: Does the cream suite your scar type? Is it effective for scars as old as yours? Does it have any ingredient you might be allergic too? Are you comfortable with the feel when it sits on your skin? Ask yourself questions like these and others that might fit into the category.
2. The active ingredients: The cream you have in mind should at least have one or more ingredients that have been tested and proven to work in scar treatment.
3. The doctor’s recommendation: it’s not too much to ask for your doctor’s input when making your choice. He/she would be able to tell you chemical components that would be crucial for your scar healing hence guiding your ultimate choice.
4. The price: The rule of thumb, 'the more expensive; the better' doesn't apply here. At all price ranges, there are quality scar creams. So think about what would be more effective for you not, what is more expensive. 

What is the Cost of a Scar Removal Cream in the Philippines?

This OTC treatment approach for scars is relatively affordable in the Philippines. On average, the creams are equivalent to what you would spend for dinner, ₱450 (or even less) at a decent restaurant. There are even very cheap ones as there are tons of deals by the brands on the creams. Just be on the lookout.

However, this is only applicable to the Asian (local) brands like Lanbena, Pasjel, Vibrant glamour, etc. Global brands like Mederma, Honeydew can be very pricy.