Hypertrophic scars on Black skin

A hypertrophic scar is extra scar tissue that remains within the boundary of an injury, operation, burn, or piercing. On deeply pigmented skin, the change in colour may be as noticeable as the thickening. It can feel firm, tight, sore, or itchy, and rubbing may keep symptoms active.

After the wound closes, use gentle cleansing, moisturiser, and protection from friction. Protect the scar from sunlight because darkening can persist after irritation. Do not use bleaching agents, strong acids, or steroid creams without guidance. A dermatologist can tailor steroid injection into the skin, fractional laser treatment, or scar revision surgery to the scar's texture, colour, location, and response. Test and follow-up planning matter because inflammation can cause additional pigment change.

Book a review if the scar is becoming thicker, painful, hot, wet, open, or increasingly itchy. Urgent assessment is appropriate for spreading redness, pus, fever, or sudden swelling. Seek advice before cosmetic treatment if the area has recently healed or if its colour is changing quickly.

Ask how your skin tone may affect pigment risk, whether the scar is hypertrophic or keloid, and how treatment will be adjusted if colour change follows inflammation.