If the linear scars on your wrist or inner arm have weighed on your mind as summer approaches, let's first address why timely treatment is important.
Self-harm scars are also called hesitation marks or self-inflicted scars. They are often linear scars that repeatedly appear in the same area, making the approach somewhat tricky. However, there are reports of improvement to a less noticeable level with laser treatment tailored to the condition and timing, so please don't give up prematurely.
What types of self-harm scars are there?
Hesitation marks are often linear in shape, appearing on the wrist or inner arm, and the treatment direction is divided by color and thickness. Identifying the current state of your scar is the first step.
| Type | Condition | Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Red scars (early) | Red or pinkish, active regenerative response | Early approach is advantageous, vascular laser |
| White/atrophic scars | Turned white, sunken, and hardened | Difficult to recover naturally, requires active regenerative stimulation |
| Hypertrophic/Keloid | Scars are thick and raised | Treatment methods differ, approach after specialist diagnosis |
As such, even for the same self-harm scar, the approach varies depending on its color and thickness, so confirming the current stage through diagnosis is paramount.
Treatment timing determines the outcome
The golden time in scar treatment refers to the early stage when the scar is still red. At this time, the regenerative response of the dermal layer is active, and the reaction to the laser is relatively vigorous. Generally, scars enter the maturation phase after about 6 months, and the response tends to decrease, so starting as early as possible is advantageous for the outcome. For this reason, we emphasize the management of early scars in the initial stage.
It is a principle to start treatment only after confirming that the wound has fully healed. Applying a laser to an unhealed wound can cause irritation, so please consult a dermatologist to confirm the possibility and timing of the procedure.
If you are curious about which stage your scar is in, you can check through consultation. Consult via chat now
Lasers used for self-harm scar treatment
Self-harm scars are approached by distinguishing between vascular lasers and regenerative lasers, depending on their color and shape.
For red scars, vascular lasers are used. The 595nm wavelength selectively acts on hemoglobin in blood vessels, helping to suppress red erythema and progression to hypertrophic scars. An early approach is more advantageous in reducing the scar from thickening or settling as white.
For hesitation marks that have turned white, or are atrophic or hypertrophic, CO2 Fractional for Stretch Marks and the Pinhole Technique are used together. When the laser delivers fine thermal stimulation to the dermal layer, new collagen production is induced, and damaged tissue is gradually remodeled. If the scar condition is complex, various methods may be combined, such as Multi-Laser Scar Treatment.
What is the principle of the Pinhole Technique?
The Pinhole for Burn & Surgical Scar is a method of regularly forming microscopic holes on the scar surface with a laser. Creating holes relaxes the thickly clumped fibrous tissue and activates the regenerative response, gradually remodeling the scar tissue into a softer and smoother state. For linear hesitation marks, the Pinhole Technique is useful because it allows for precise access along the scar line. If there are also thickly raised areas, Triamcinolone Scar Injection may be combined.
How many laser treatments are needed?
Laser treatment for self-harm scars is not completed in one or two sessions but proceeds over several treatments. The treatment interval is usually 4 to 8 weeks or more, with the next treatment continuing after the skin has fully recovered. The number of sessions required varies for each individual, depending on the depth and extent of the scar, its age, and the rate of regeneration.
In the clinic, we often see people who stopped treatment midway and regretted the recovery, so we recommend planning from a long-term perspective. During treatment, please observe the following points:
- Scabs may form after the procedure and should not be removed arbitrarily.
- Avoid direct sunlight exposure and meticulously use sunscreen.
- Keep the treated area clean and minimize skin irritation.
- Temporary erythema, swelling, or heat may appear but usually subside within a few days.
- If abnormal reactions persist or new symptoms appear, consult your specialist.
Healing the mind along with scar treatment
There is one important fact in self-harm scar treatment. If self-harm behavior is repeated, new scars may overlap with previously treated areas, reducing the effectiveness of the treatment. Since the process of erasing scars itself can lose its meaning, finding psychological stability along with dermatological treatment is paramount. Do not try to bear it alone; we recommend talking to a trusted person or seeking professional help.
Self-harm scars are traces of difficult times, but if you have developed the desire to erase those traces and move forward, that in itself is already a significant change. You can expect a better outcome when you choose the laser appropriate for the type and timing of your scar and continue consistently, so please consult sufficiently with a specialist to create a plan that suits your situation. Consult via chat now
This article was reviewed by Dr. Sang-Joo Lee, Chief Director of Yonsei Star Dermatology Sinchon. He is a dermatologist who has long treated scars and pigmentation, an adjunct professor at the Department of Dermatology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, and will serve as the president of the Korean Dermatological Association in 2026. His profile can be found at Dr. Lee Sang-Joo. First published 2026-06-09 · Last reviewed July 23, 2026
This content is for informational purposes only, and results may vary depending on individual skin and scar conditions. Please consult a dermatologist to confirm the possibility and timing of the procedure.