After a cut or scape, the healed skin may form a scar. It looks and feels different from other skin. And while scars may fade on their own over time, they don't go away completely.
Why do we get scars? When skin is damaged, your body works to heal it. Blood supply to the area increases. And, your body makes more collagen. That's a protein that strengthens your skin. Collagen builds up along a wound to reconnect damaged tissues. After your skin heals, some of this collagen breaks down, but some remains. That's a scar.
A scar can be raised, flat or sunken. It may be more pink or red than other skin, and it may be shiny. Scars can also be painful or itchy. How it looks depends on many things, including what caused it and where it is on your body. Your age, ethnicity and skin type are also factors.
Scars are a normal part of healing for everyone, and they usually don't cause problems. But some people are very bothered by their scars. This is especially true for scars on the face. And, some scars are abnormal. A scar might keep growing over time, or a scar could tighten and cause pain when you move. These types of scars can be treated. Your doctor will create a care plan that's right for you.