![Causes of Scar Formation, Need for Laser Treatment in Early Scar Stage [Yonsei Star Dermatology Sinchon]](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fagqdgbuateknhwpocrgu.supabase.co%2Fstorage%2Fv1%2Fobject%2Fpublic%2Fsources%2Fbbf3bebe-45b6-4415-bd04-bda18b2cac0f%2Fblog-images%2F224223687256_00_e05ad623e9e8.jpg%3Ftype%3Dw966&w=3840&q=75)
Have you ever had a small wound that you dismissed as "this much is fine," only for it to remain as a noticeable mark that doesn't fade over time? To put it simply, not all wounds turn into scars, but some can leave traces during the skin's healing process and may not disappear with natural recovery alone.
Today, we will explore why wounds turn into scars and why they don't disappear over time, focusing on frequently asked questions in the clinic.
Scars are not wounds, but traces of healing
When skin is damaged, it has a natural tendency to heal itself. In this process, new tissue is formed, and if it cannot regenerate exactly like the original skin, it often remains in the form of what we call a scar.
It is helpful to understand scars not merely as remaining wounds, but as the result of the skin's healing process.
Especially if it's on the face or a highly visible area, even a small scar can feel more significant, leading to a focus on early management.
Why the degree of scarring varies from person to person for the same wound
Even with similar wounds, the degree of scarring varies from person to person. In the clinic, we often see that even with wounds of the same depth, the healing patterns are diverse. The reasons for this are more varied than one might think.
- Individual differences in skin type
- Depth of the wound
- Degree of irritation during the healing process
- Management methods during healing
In particular, if the wound is repeatedly irritated or improperly managed before it heals, the likelihood of it leading to a scar may increase. This means that even for the same wound, the outcome can vary depending on how it is managed.
Why scars don't disappear over time
Many people think, "It will disappear over time." However, not all scars disappear naturally. In the following cases, changes through natural recovery alone may be limited:
- If the skin was damaged to deep layers
- If the tissue has hardened
- If pigment changes remain along with it
In such conditions, traces tend to remain even as time passes. Therefore, after a certain point, treatments that aid skin regeneration may be considered.
If you are concerned about a persistent mark, it may be helpful to check the process of scar formation and management directions. If you have any questions about the condition of your scar, you can easily ask through chat consultation regarding scar condition.
Scars are not all the same form
Not all scars look the same. The approach may vary depending on the form, so identifying the current state is the first step.
| Scar Type | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Red Scar | Sensitive state with redness in the early stage |
| Pigmented Scar | State with accompanying pigment changes, such as brown |
| Depressed Scar | State where the skin is sunken inwards |
| Raised Scar | State where tissue has risen upwards |
Different forms may require different treatment methods or approaches. Therefore, rather than simply grouping them under the single concept of scar treatment, it is important to identify the current form. If redness persists for a long time, referring to the principle of red marks can help understand the condition, and for depressed forms, the characteristics of depressed scars can be helpful.
The older the scar, the more the treatment approach changes
Scars continue to change over time. Initially, they may be red and sensitive, then gradually fade in color and the tissue may harden.
Such old scars may have a deformed skin structure, requiring a different approach than in the early stages. This means that even for the same scar on the same person, the treatment direction can change depending on when it is examined.
Laser treatment methods may also vary depending on the condition
Since the method of delivering stimulation to the skin can vary depending on the scar condition, the treatment approach may differ depending on which laser is used.
Especially in cases where it is necessary to affect deep layers of the skin, such as with old scars, lasers that allow for a more precise approach may be considered. In some cases, Surgical Scar Revision or RePott Laser tailored to the type and depth of the scar may also be reviewed.
In summary, scars are not a problem that simply disappears over time, but rather a change that remains during the skin's healing process.
Points to consider when examining scars
When checking the condition, it is helpful to consider these three points together:
- Why it occurred (cause and depth of the wound)
- What form it takes (red, pigmented, depressed, raised)
- How much time has passed (early scar or old scar)
- Photos used with consent. ** Original photos without retouching.
Since the appropriate method, such as laser treatment, may vary depending on the scar's condition, it is helpful to accurately assess the current state. If you are curious about management during the early scar stage, we recommend checking it before delaying your decision.
If it is difficult to gauge the form and stage of your scar yourself, it is quicker to ask with a photo.
💬 Consult NowDr. Sang-Joo Lee, Chief Director (MD, PhD, Yonsei University College of Medicine and Graduate School; completed dermatology residency at Severance Hospital; President of the Korean Dermatological Association) Dr. Sang-Joo Lee's Profile First published 2026-03-20 / Last reviewed 2026-06-16
This content provides general information about scar recovery, and since recovery patterns and treatment responses may vary individually, we recommend confirming an accurate diagnosis and direction through consultation with medical staff.