The human body would be non-existent if it weren't for its perfectly constructed immune system. This system is destined to protect it from a variety of injuries including burns, puncture wounds, or blunt force trauma. The second the body receives any type of aggression it sets into motion a chain of events that protect the body from further damage.

The healing process begins when a wound is inflicted on the skin and a variety of different cells run in aid of the damaged area. This process involves the replacement of healthy skin tissue with scar tissue. But don't worry, this is simply the body's way of protecting itself from harm. Not all wounds heal alike so take care of each injury carefully so that you maintain scarring tissue down to a minimum.

Simple Tips for Scar Prevention

Before you decide to treat a wound you should have a handle on scar treatment and scar prevention. Here are a few simple tips that may help:

*Avoid hydrogen peroxide: If you've just cut yourself don't reach for hydrogen peroxide to clean it. Hydrogen peroxide has been known to destroy skin cells as they form.

*Avoid the sun: A lot of people use tanning to make their scars less visible, however, UV exposure slows down the healing process and may promote dark coloration. If you do find yourself exposed to solar radiation, don't forget to use sun block. Skin care specialists recommend using SPF 15 or higher.

*Avoid exposing injury: Keeping the wound exposed while healing also exposes it to debris and further damage. Keep the wound under wraps until it has had a chance to fully heal.

What are the types of scars?

A wound that is not cared for properly is a scar waiting to form. And, did you know that there is more than one type of scar? Here are just a few:

*Keloid scars: This type of scar is the result of an overly aggressive healing process and occurs more readily in black skin. These scars commonly grow beyond the limits of the original wound. Over time, a keloid scar may affect mobility. Possible scar healing treatments include surgical removal, or injections with steroids. Keloid formation can also be prevented by using gel pads with silicone or pressure treatments once an injury has been sustained.

*Contracture scars: These scars appear mostly in burn victims. It produces tightening of the skin and impairs mobility; furthermore, this type of scar may go deep into the skin and affect muscles and nerves.

*Hypertrophic scars: These scars are similar to keloids, but do not breach the boundaries of the injury site. Probable scar removal may possibly include injections of steroids to reduce inflammation.

*Acne scars: These scars are mostly seen after acne breakouts have healed. There are many types of acne scars, ranging from deep pits to scars that are angular or wavelike in appearance. Your choice of acne scar removal will depend on the types of acne scars you have.