Scarring is a natural part of the skin’s healing process, but for many people scars can be persistent, visible, and emotionally distressing. Scars may result from acne, surgery, injury, inflammation, or skin conditions, and no two scars behave in the same way.

At The Adare Clinic, scarring is managed through a doctor-led, evidence-based dermatology approach, focusing on accurate assessment, realistic expectations, and personalised treatment plans designed to improve skin texture, appearance, and function.

What Is Scarring?

A scar forms when the skin repairs itself after injury or inflammation. During this process, collagen is produced to close the wound. When collagen production is altered — too much, too little, or disorganised — a visible scar can develop.

Scars vary depending on:

• Depth and type of skin injury
• Location on the body
• Genetic factors
• Skin type and tone
• Inflammation during healing

Understanding the type of scar is essential before treatment can begin.

Common Types of Scarring

Acne Scarring

Acne scars develop after prolonged or severe inflammation. They may appear as:

• Depressed or pitted scars
• Rolling or boxcar scars
• Pigmented marks following acne

Early and effective acne treatment is key to prevention.

Surgical and Traumatic Scars

These scars result from procedures or injuries and vary widely in size and appearance. Healing quality depends on surgical technique, aftercare, and individual skin response.

Hypertrophic Scars

These scars are raised, thickened, and confined to the original wound area. They result from excess collagen production during healing.

Keloid Scars

Keloids extend beyond the original wound and continue to grow over time. They are more common in certain skin types and require careful medical management.

Why Scarring Requires Medical Assessment

Not all scars should be treated in the same way. Some scars may worsen with inappropriate treatment, particularly raised or keloid scars.

At The Adare Clinic, scar assessment includes:

• Detailed medical history
• Examination of scar type, age, and location
• Evaluation of skin type and healing tendency
• Identification of ongoing inflammation or underlying conditions

This ensures treatment is safe, appropriate, and effective.

How Scarring Is Treated at The Adare Clinic

Scar treatment is individualised and often involves a staged approach. The goal is improvement — not perfection — with realistic, achievable outcomes.

1. Dermatology-Led Consultation

Every patient begins with a comprehensive consultation to:

• Identify the scar type
• Assess skin health and sensitivity
• Discuss treatment options and timelines
• Set realistic expectations

Education is a core part of care, as scar improvement takes time.

2. Inflammation Control and Skin Preparation

Active inflammation can worsen scarring. Before procedural treatment, doctors may focus on:

• Controlling acne or inflammatory skin conditions
• Supporting the skin barrier
• Optimising skin health

This improves treatment tolerance and outcomes.

3. Medical and Procedural Treatments

Depending on the scar type, treatment options may include:

• Medical treatments to reduce inflammation or abnormal collagen response
• Targeted procedures designed to stimulate controlled skin repair
• Treatments to improve texture, thickness, or colour

These are selected carefully and introduced progressively.

4. Pigmentation and Texture Management

Scars often involve colour change as well as texture. Treatment plans may address:

• Post-inflammatory pigmentation
• Redness or vascular changes
• Uneven skin surface

Managing these elements together produces more balanced results.

5. Long-Term Management and Follow-Up

Scarring improves gradually. Follow-up appointments allow doctors to:

• Monitor progress
• Adjust treatment plans
• Prevent recurrence or worsening
• Support optimal healing

A long-term approach delivers the best outcomes.

What Results Can Patients Expect?

Scar treatment focuses on improvement, not complete removal. With appropriate care, patients can expect:

• Smoother skin texture
• Reduced scar depth or thickness
• Improved colour and blending with surrounding skin
• Increased comfort and confidence

Results develop over time and often require multiple treatment sessions.

At The Adare Clinic:

• Scars are not treated with aggressive, one-size-fits-all solutions
• Cosmetic-only approaches are avoided where medical care is needed
• Unrealistic promises are not made

Patient safety and skin integrity always come first.

When to Seek Professional Advice

You should seek assessment if:

• Scars are worsening or changing
• Scars are painful, itchy, or raised
• Acne is leaving marks or indentations
• Scars affect confidence or quality of life

Early intervention often improves outcomes.

Why Choose The Adare Clinic?

Patients trust The Adare Clinic for scarring treatment because of:

• Doctor-led dermatology expertise
• Accurate diagnosis and tailored plans
• Evidence-based treatments
• Focus on long-term skin health

Every scar is treated with care, precision, and clinical judgement. Scarring can be challenging, both physically and emotionally, but meaningful improvement is possible with the right approach. Accurate assessment, patience, and expert care are essential.

At The Adare Clinic, scarring is treated through medical understanding, personalised care, and long-term management, helping patients achieve healthier, more confident skin.