Can steroid injections treat a hypertrophic scar?

A hypertrophic scar is raised scar tissue that stays within the outline of the original wound. Injected steroid medicine is placed into the thickened area, where it can reduce local inflammation and slow excess scar tissue activity. The scar may become less firm, flatter, or less itchy over time, but changes are gradual and vary between people.

The clinician must distinguish a hypertrophic scar from a keloid, which grows beyond the original wound edge, and from an active infection or another skin growth. Injection depth and placement matter because steroid can thin or lighten nearby skin if it spreads outside the scar.

Have the scar examined before treatment, especially if it is changing, bleeding, warm, or painful. Tell the clinician about previous scar treatments, skin-colour changes after injections, and medicines that affect healing. Discuss whether injection alone is suitable or whether it should be combined with pressure, silicone-based care, or another scar procedure. Follow aftercare instructions and avoid rubbing or picking the area.

Contact the treating clinic if the area develops worsening redness, heat, swelling, discharge, or pain after an injection. Seek urgent care for fever, rapidly spreading redness, severe swelling, or breathing difficulty. A scar that extends beyond the original wound, grows quickly, or repeatedly breaks down deserves reassessment rather than repeated self-treatment.

Ask how the scar will be identified, what change is realistic, how many visits may be considered, how nearby skin will be protected, and what alternatives are available if the scar remains raised.