The number of people seeking treatment for self-harm scars is increasing every year. Most self-harm scars respond better to non-surgical treatments like lasers or injections than to surgery. Today, I will calmly explain how many laser treatments are needed and how much improvement can be expected, showing actual progress.
How many treatments are needed for improvement?
The answer varies greatly depending on where you set your standards. If it's simply about improving from the current state, you can see the scars gradually fade with just 3 to 5 laser treatments. However, if you aim for a satisfactory level, it often requires at least 10 or more treatments.
What should be the treatment goal?
In self-harm scar treatment, the criteria for satisfaction are broadly divided into three categories:
- Becoming completely invisible
- Barely visible upon a casual glance
- Appearing to be scars from other causes, even if slightly visible
The first goal is realistically difficult to achieve. Realistic goals are the second and third, and while there are individual differences, these levels can generally be reached with about 10 to 20 treatments.
It might look worse during treatment
During the treatment process, it may temporarily look worse. This is because laser marks, changes in skin color, and skin depressions may appear.
These changes generally disappear naturally after 6 months to 1 year, so knowing this in advance can alleviate anxiety.
That's why timing is important
If you treat 10 times at one-month intervals, it will take approximately 1 year. If you allow another year for the temporary changes to subside after the last treatment, it will take about 2 years to confirm the final effect. Therefore, if you have important life moments such as employment or marriage approaching, we recommend starting at least 3 years in advance.
The progress also differs depending on the depth of the scar. If the scar is shallow due to minor damage, treatment tends to be effective. If the damage is deep, affecting muscles or ligaments, or if there are too many scars, treatment may be slower and less effective.
Old scars can also be treated
Old self-harm scars can also be treated. Scars that are within 6 months of injury are still less established and a bit easier to manage. After 6 months, whether it's 1 year or 10 years, the progress is generally similar.
A mindset more important than treatment
Post-treatment care is not special. The daily aspects to take care of are simple:
- Keep the skin moisturized with moisturizer
- Lightly apply regenerating cream
- Pay attention to UV protection
What's more important is a patient mindset. Scars take a long time to heal, so impatience can easily lead to giving up midway. We recommend setting aside ample time from the beginning.
Self-harm scars are often accompanied by feelings of depression, so we recommend receiving psychiatric treatment if possible. The role of parents is also significant. Overprotection, excessive expectations, or indifference are not helpful. Normal love, neither obsession nor neglect, is most important.
Results may vary individually, and accurate diagnosis and treatment are determined after consultation.
Written by Jinmun Kang, Chief Director (Yonsei Star Dermatology) · Medical Staff Introduction · Last reviewed 2026-06-03