Hello. I am Lee Sang-ju, a dermatologist. Many people are concerned about burn scars that remain for years, even after just a brief scald with hot water. Burn scars are more than just simple wounds; they can become bumpy, darken in color, and even cause uncomfortable itching and tightness. Many people think they will get better over time, but it is not uncommon for them to miss the treatment window and for the scars to progress deeper. Today, let's take some time to answer common questions about burn scars.
Why do burn scars not disappear over time?
After a burn wound heals, a scar remains. At home, there is often no clear method other than applying ointment. However, it can be difficult for burn scars to fully improve with ointment alone.
Is it okay to just apply ointment at home?
Generally, the effect of ointment often results in only about 5-10% improvement. Therefore, rather than relying solely on ointment, it is advisable to seek a professional diagnosis early. It is important not to miss the treatment window.
Why do burn scars become bumpy and raised?
When burn wounds are shallow, scars tend not to protrude significantly. However, in cases of deep burns over a large area, the depth of the wound is greater, requiring a long time for recovery, and as a result, the skin often protrudes like keloid scars. In other words, deeper and more severe scars tend to protrude more.
Thick, irregularly arranged, raised burn scars are often referred to as 'tteoksal' (rice cake skin) by the general public. These can be thick and reddish, causing aesthetic and functional discomfort.
Is burn scar treatment really impossible?
In the past, burn scar treatment was known to be difficult, but now significant improvement is possible through various methods. In particular, laser scar treatment can help thin thick areas and improve reddish skin tone.
P-All Technique, what is its treatment principle?
At our clinic, we primarily use a treatment called P-All Technique for these scars. The P-All Technique improves scars based on the following principles:
- It makes existing irregular burn scars regular.
- It improves scar tissue by making it thinner.
- It guides the scar to become closer to normal skin.
How many burn scar treatments are needed?
Burn scars tend to show gradual improvement with repeated treatments. On average, it is common to expect about 5 to 10 treatments. The number of treatments may vary depending on the individual's scar condition.