Self-Harm Scars
It is not uncommon for adolescents and young adults to have cutting or self-harm scars, with a prevalence of over 10%. Fortunately, lasers can be used to minimise the appearance of these scars and help them blend in with the surrounding skin. Lasers are effective in targeting the colour, particularly red, and can also assist in blending the scars into the surrounding area.
- For optimal results, lasers are recommended to be used on early cutting scars.
- Vascular lasers are typically spaced out 4-6 weeks apart and can effectively decrease redness and promote collagen remodeling.
- Fractional lasers are suitable for treating both early and established cutting scars. Examples of fractional devices include Acclaro UltraClear, Candela PicoWay®, Fraxel®, and Alma Hybrid™ lasers.
- The goal of using lasers on self-harm scars is to address both colour and contour of the scar tissue.
The Science Behind It
Self-harm scars develop when repeated, sharp injuries cut into the deeper layers of the skin. This disrupts normal healing and triggers the body to rapidly produce collagen in thick, disorganised bundles. Because the same area is often injured multiple times, inflammation lasts longer and the skin repairs unevenly, leading to linear or grouped scars that may be raised, indented, red, white, or darker than surrounding skin.
These injuries also affect pigment cells, blood vessels, and nerve endings, which is why self-harm scars can remain sensitive, discoloured, or texturally irregular for years. Modern laser and energy-based treatments work by remodelling abnormal collagen, reducing redness, and stimulating healthier skin regeneration.
What are the best lasers for self-harm scars?
The best lasers for self-harm scars use a range of technologies to improve scar appearance, texture, and colour. In general, resurfacing-style treatments are best for improving texture and blending (e.g., Alma Hybrid™ and Acclaro UltraClear), vascular-focused treatments are best when scars are still red/pink (e.g., Candela VBeam®), and pigment-focused treatments can help when there’s brown discolouration (e.g., PicoWay®). Often, the strongest results come from a combination approach matched to scar type and skin response.
Treatment at a Glance
| Treatment Type | Number of Sessions | Procedure Time | Typical Recovery |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acclaro UltraClear® | 2 - 5+ sessions | 10 - 30 minutes | 3 - 5+ days |
| Alma Hybrid™ | 2 - 5+ sessions | 10 - 30 minutes | 3 - 5+ days |
| Fraxel® Dual Laser | 2 - 5+ sessions | 10 - 30 minutes | 3 - 5+ days |
| Picosecond laser | 2 - 5+ sessions | 10 - 30 minutes | 3 - 5+ days |
| Vbeam® Pulse Dye Laser | 2 - 5+ sessions | 10 - 30 minutes | 3 - 5+ days |
| Steroids, Anti-Metabolites, Sonophoresis & Advanced Laser Combination Therapy | 2 - 5 sessions | 5 - 10 minutes | 0 |
Frequently Asked Questions
The primary goals of scar treatment are to improve colour and contour. When redness is reduced and the texture becomes smoother or flatter, scars become far less visible. Lasers can address both aspects effectively, but each scar has unique clinical features that determine the best treatment pathway.
For self-harm scars specifically, an additional aim is to break up the recognisable patterning of parallel lines that often identify cutting scars. In some cases, this involves combining laser therapy with surgical techniques to disrupt these patterns and create a more natural appearance.
Important ACC & Treatment Disclaimer
ACC funding eligibility is determined by the Accident Compensation Corporation on a case-by-case basis. Approval is dependent on injury acceptance, clinical indication, and ACC policy at the time of application. Not all treatments offered at Scars & Lasers are ACC-funded. Private fees may apply for unfunded components of care.
Learn more about ACC IncidentsCompassionate specialist care for self-harm scars through advanced skin restoration and precision scar remodelling.
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