Understanding Atrophic Scars: Causes, Treatments Have you ever noticed tiny pits or depressions left behind on your skin after severe acne or chickenpox? These are called atrophic scars, and they can affect your confidence just as much as your appearance. But here’s the good news — with the right guidance and treatment, they can be significantly improved. In his educational video, Dr. K. C. Dharam Kumar, a leading Atrophic Scars Treatment in Bangalore, breaks down what causes atrophic scars and the modern solutions available to treat them.
What Exactly Are Atrophic Scars? Atrophic scars are indented or sunken scars that form when the skin doesn’t produce enough collagen during the healing process. Imagine your skin trying to repair itself after deep acne or injury — if it can’t rebuild the lost tissue completely, a small depression remains. These scars are quite common after severe acne, chickenpox, or injuries. Unlike raised scars (keloids or hypertrophic scars), atrophic scars pull the skin inward, making the surface look uneven.
The Main Types of Atrophic Scars Dr. Dharam Kumar explains that atrophic scars can appear in different shapes and depths: ● Ice pick scars: Small, narrow holes that look like tiny punctures. ● Boxcar scars: Round or oval depressions with sharp edges. ● Rolling scars: Wide, shallow scars that create a wave-like appearance on the skin. Each type requires a slightly different treatment approach, so it’s essential to get a proper assessment before starting therapy.
Why Do They Form?
The most common reason for atrophic scars is loss of collagen during the healing phase. Factors like prolonged inflammation, frequent acne breakouts, picking or squeezing pimples, and even genetics can make scars worse. Sun exposure can also darken or deepen these scars over time — which is why sun protection is crucial for anyone dealing with acne marks or scars.
Effective Treatments for Atrophic Scars Dr. K. C. Dharam Kumar emphasizes that treating atrophic scars is not about one single procedure — it’s about combination therapy tailored to your skin type and scar pattern. Here are some popular and effective treatment options available at Epiderma Skin & Hair Clinic, Bangalore: 1. Microneedling / Dermaroller: Tiny needles create micro-injuries in the skin, triggering new collagen formation. This helps fill in shallow scars over time. 2. PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma): Often combined with microneedling, PRP uses your own platelets to boost healing and collagen production. 3. Subcision: For deeper scars, this minor surgical technique releases the fibrous bands pulling the skin down, allowing it to lift naturally. 4. Laser Resurfacing: Fractional lasers improve texture and stimulate new collagen for smoother, firmer skin. 5. TCA CROSS & Chemical Peels: Focused application of trichloroacetic acid or other peels helps remodel deeper scars. 6. Dermal Fillers: Fillers can temporarily lift depressed areas for an instantly smoother look. Every patient’s skin responds differently, so Dr. Dharam Kumar carefully plans treatment sessions for gradual, long-term improvement.
Meet Dr. K. C. Dharam Kumar Dr. K. C. Dharam Kumar is a renowned dermatologist, cosmetologist, and dermatosurgeon based in Bangalore. He holds an MD and DNB in Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy, and has over 11 years of experience in treating complex skin and hair conditions. He is the Co-Director of Epiderma Skin & Hair Clinic, where he specializes in: ● Acne and acne scar treatment ● Skin rejuvenation and anti-aging ● Laser and cosmetic dermatology
● Hair restoration and transplant procedures What makes Dr. Dharam Kumar stand out is his patient-centric approach — he takes time to explain the root cause of each problem and designs a customized plan that fits the individual’s skin type, budget, and comfort level.
