Scars are a natural outcome when the body repairs damaged or lost skin tissue. They are formed from fibrous tissue and can result from various causes, including injuries, infections, surgery, or inflammation. While scars mark a healed area, they undergo changes in appearance over time as part of the body’s ongoing healing process.
The Process of Scar Maturation
A scar turning white signifies scar maturation. Initially, a healing scar often appears red or reddish-purple due to increased blood flow and the formation of new blood vessels, a process called angiogenesis. As the scar matures, typically over several months, the collagen fibers within the scar tissue reorganize from a random arrangement to a more aligned structure. Concurrently, the number of blood vessels in the scar tissue decreases, leading to a reduction in redness and a gradual shift to a lighter, more flesh-toned or white color. This lighter appearance is due to hypopigmentation, a reduction in the pigment melanin in the scar area.
General Timeline for Scar Whitening
The journey for a scar to turn white begins after the initial acute healing phase. For many scars, the redness and raised appearance seen initially will start to diminish within three to six months as the scar begins to soften and flatten. Significant lightening and full maturation, to its final white or near-skin tone, typically occurs within 12 to 18 months. Some minor changes and continued fading can still be observed for up to two years post-injury.
Factors Affecting Scar Color Change
Several factors influence how long it takes for a scar to lighten and its ultimate appearance:
- Type of Injury and Scar: Surgical incisions often heal differently than burns or abrasions. Hypertrophic scars, which are raised but stay within the original wound boundaries, usually flatten and lighten over several years. Keloid scars, which grow beyond the wound, may remain red or purple and often do not turn white without treatment.
- Location: Scars on areas of high tension or movement, like joints, may take longer to heal and fade.
- Age: Younger skin generally heals faster due to more active collagen production and cell turnover.
- Genetic Predisposition and Skin Tone: Individuals with darker skin tones are more prone to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, where scars appear darker than the surrounding skin.
- Sun Exposure: Sun exposure can darken scars, preventing them from turning white.
- Scar Care: Diligent scar care, including proper wound management, moisturization, and massage, can optimize the healing process.