Eczema scars are part of a broader category of lasting marks that eczema can leave on your skin. These marks can be hyperpigmentation in healed spots or actual scars from scratching during a flare-up. Learn more about eczema scars in this article. Show nensuria / Getty Images Wound HealingEczema is a term used for a group of skin conditions that cause red, itchy, inflamed skin. Eczema does not directly cause scars. However, if you scratch your skin so much that it bleeds, you'll cause an open wound, which can lead to a scar—a normal part of the healing process. Wounds heal in overlapping stages: hemostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling.
FeaturesEczema scars can present differently based on your skin color. Skin color is determined mainly by cells that produce melanin, which is made up of brown and black pigment. The more melanin you produce, the darker your skin. The color of your eczema scars are also influenced by melanin. Healed wounds generally leave scars that eventually blend in with the color of your skin. However, this doesn't always happen. Abnormal pigmentation (coloring) of an eczema scar often makes it more noticeable. Hypopigmented scars don't have enough melanin, making the skin lighter. Hyperpigmentation is caused by excess melanin and makes scars darker. The shape of your eczema scars can also vary. Normal scars eventually flatten out, making them less noticeable. There are two main types of abnormal scars: hypertrophic and keloid. Hypertrophic scars are raised above the rest of your skin, but they maintain the size and shape of the original wound. In some cases, hypertrophic scars can flatten out after several years. Keloid scars spread beyond the edges of your original wound and don't improve with time. Eczema and Skin DiscolorationEczema can cause changes in skin color even if you don't have scars. Pigmentation can occur with inflammation or scratching—even if it doesn't break the skin. You might develop brown patches or thickening of your skin in the affected areas (called eczema lichenification). Eczema can also cause white spots on your skin. Unlike scars, these changes go away with treatment. TreatmentUnfortunately, there's no magic wand for getting rid of eczema scars. Once you have them, you've got them for life. But, there are some things you can do to make them less noticeable:
PreventionThe best way to prevent eczema scars is to avoid scratching. This can be extremely difficult if you have this intensely itchy condition. However, there are ways you can reduce the itching and your urge to scratch:
Summary Eczema scars are a broader category of lasting marks from eczema—usually either hyperpigmentation in healed spots, or scars from scratching during flare-ups. People with eczema often have more melanin in their skin, and flare-ups can be triggered by many different things. A Word From Verywell Long-term skin damage from eczema, such as scarring or pigmentation changes, can add another layer of stress when dealing with this chronic condition. However, there are many ways to prevent scarring and improve the appearance of existing scars.
Talk to your doctor about possible interventions to improve your quality of life. Frequently Asked Questions
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By Aubrey Bailey, PT,
DPT, CHT Thanks for your feedback! Do rashes scars go away?A scar is what is left when a wound on your skin heals. Scars form after you heal from burns, cuts, sores, scrapes, or even surgery. They may slowly fade away with time, but they generally do not go away.
How do you treat a scar from a rash?10 remedies to improve eczema scarring. Don't scratch! Though a simple recommendation, not scratching is essential to preventing the formation of scar tissue. ... . Oatmeal bath. Oatmeal baths can treat skin disorders and improve skin health. ... . Honey. ... . Apple cider vinegar (ACV) ... . Hemp seed oil. ... . Chamomile. ... . Aloe vera. ... . Lavender.. How long do rash scars last?In time, some collagen breaks down at the site of the wound and the blood supply reduces. The scar gradually becomes smoother and softer. Although scars are permanent, they can fade over a period of up to 2 years. It's unlikely they'll fade any more after this time.
Does scratching a rash leave scars?Itching leads to scratching, which causes the skin to react further and eczema symptoms to worsen. This results in even more itching, a sequence known as the itch-scratch cycle, according to a 2019 review . If your skin is wounded from repetitive scratching, it can lead to pigment changes or scarring.
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