Over-the-counter oils, ointments and creams haven't proven effective in reducing scar formation.

Up until recently, patients wishing to mask the appearance of scars have not had many options available beyond cover-up products. Conventional topical treatments include:

Creams: Ointments or creams containing glycolic acid and L-ascorbic acid, when used daily, may slightly improve the appearance of mature, white scars. Overall, results have been disappointing.

New Treatment Option: ReLume^TM System

Both early and mature scars respond to new light-based technologies providing non-invasive, gentle treatments that can help affected skin more closely match its natural color.

ReLume is the first technological breakthrough to offer a practical treatment solution for skin conditions in which pigment loss has occurred. ReLume achieves selective repigmentation of hypopigmented skin by combining the benefits of safe and effective UV system with the latest advances in targeted light technology. The procedure is painless and safe for all skin types.

Treatments using ReLume are fast and non-invasive. Many people schedule appointments during their lunch hours. Patients usually require brief sessions once or twice a week; improvement in the appearance of mature scars is routinely achieved within six to fifteen treatments.

Many physicians are finding IPL a successful approach for reducing the appearance of hyperpigmented (dark red) scars. This non-invasive, gentle approach uses targeted flashes of light to treat dilated and broken blood vessels without injuring the surrounding healthy skin.

Practitioners determine an IPL treatment plan for each patient, taking into account the number and severity of skin conditions being addressed. On average, a series of four to six treatments is recommended, scheduled at three week intervals. Each session usually lasts about 20 minutes, with patients returning to normal activity immediately. By dividing the full program into several sessions, IPL treatments provide gradual, natural improvement with excellent long-term results.

Continue to: Before & After Photos