Hesitation marks refer to scars that result from repeatedly self-harming the same area due to psychological difficulties such as depression or anxiety. We often receive questions like, "It's been a long time, can they still be removed now?" Even old marks can show gradual improvement with treatments that induce skin regeneration.
Why are hesitation marks so hard to remove?
Because the same spot is repeatedly injured, the scars requiring treatment are often deeper than expected. Many people, fearing social judgment, cover marks on their wrists and other areas with long sleeves regardless of the season, or conceal them with cosmetics and tattoos, only seeking medical help much later.
In the examination room, it's common to see scars that have hardened into long, white lines, especially when the period of hesitation to seek treatment has been long. Even so, it's not a stage to give up; the approach should be to boost the skin's regenerative power.
Surgical vs. Laser Methods: What's the Difference?
Like other scars, hesitation marks are difficult to remove with ointments or creams alone. There are two main approaches: Surgical Scar Revision, which involves suturing, incising, or grafting skin onto the scar area, and laser methods that induce skin regeneration.
| Approach | Characteristics | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Surgical Method | Directly sutures, incises, or grafts the scar area | Involves processes that damage the skin, which may make it difficult to achieve a clean finish without traces |
| Laser Method | Gradually induces skin regeneration | Gradual improvement is reported with repeated treatments, rather than dramatic changes in a short period |
While laser methods may not show rapid, noticeable changes in the short term, they offer the advantage of refining marks cleanly and stably. Many people feel burdened by repeated treatments, but satisfaction tends to increase with each session.
Self-Harm Scar Treatment with Pinhole Technique
For old marks that have settled into long, white lines, the Mild Pinhole laser method, which activates skin regeneration, is often utilized.
Pinhole Technique involves creating very small, precise holes in the scar area with lasers like StarLux or Ultrapulse Alpha, which rapidly induce skin regeneration. As the laser beam penetrates deep into the skin, the regenerative response intensifies, and this is consistently repeated to refine the skin as close to normal as possible. For deeply indented or complex marks, precise methods like Pinhole Alpha may also be considered.
Scar treatment is not a one-time procedure, but a process of gradually boosting the skin's self-healing power.
During the treatment, there is almost no bleeding and the recovery time is relatively short, so noticeable improvement can be expected if one commits to it. The effectiveness and recovery speed may vary from person to person.
If you have any questions, please feel free to ask via chat consultation about scar treatment directions.
How many treatments and how long does it take?
Hesitation marks typically appear as long lines, often overlapping multiple times in the same area. While the exact number of sessions varies depending on the degree and area of the scar, as well as individual skin characteristics, laser treatment often involves 5 to 10 or more sessions.
Here are some things to consider before treatment:
- Whether the scar is recent or old and hardened into white
- The depth, area, and degree of overlap of the marks
- Whether you can commit to a treatment plan that may last for over a year
- Whether you can also maintain psychological stability to prevent new injuries during treatment
- Whether you can receive support from family or close acquaintances
Emotional stability is half the battle in treatment
Removing hesitation marks is a long race that takes time. To reduce psychological pressure, the warm attention of family or close acquaintances plays a truly important role in preventing one's resolve from faltering.
Starting treatment in the early stages of hesitation marks is recommended as it can prevent them from progressing into deep scars, and faster recovery can be expected. This aligns with the principles of managing Surgical Scar scars, so it's best to determine the direction based on the nature of the mark.
If you can gather a little more courage to complete the treatment with patience, rather than temporarily covering them, and add emotional stability, even marks that seemed impossible can be refined more naturally. We sincerely hope you don't give up and can return to more comfortable skin this year.
If you want to find out which method is right for your scar, start a light consultation below.
💬 Consult NowChief Director Lee Sang-joo (MD, PhD, Yonsei University College of Medicine and Graduate School, completed dermatology residency at Severance Hospital, President of the Korean Society for Dermatology) Chief Director Lee Sang-joo's Profile First published 2026-01-06 / Last reviewed 2026-06-16
The appearance and recovery progress of scars vary from person to person, so please confirm an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan through consultation with medical staff.