Getting to Know Hypertrophic Scars: Causes, Differences, and How to Treat Them

 04 April 2025   

Getting to Know Hypertrophic Scars: Causes, Differences, and How to Treat Them

What is a hypertrophic scar?
A hypertrophic scar is a thick, raised scar. It’s an abnormal response to the wound-healing process, where excess connective tissue forms within the boundary of the original wound. The result is a raised scar that stays within the wound area.

What’s the difference between a hypertrophic scar and a keloid scar?
The key visible difference between hypertrophic and keloid scars is how far the scar tissue spreads. In hypertrophic scars, the extra connective tissue remains within the original wound area. In contrast, keloid scars extend beyond the original wound borders, growing into surrounding skin.

Where do hypertrophic scars commonly occur?
Hypertrophic scars are more common in areas of the body where the skin is tight or under tension—such as the back, chest, shoulders, upper arms, elbows, and joints. However, they can develop anywhere on the skin that has been injured.
Scar tissue may form due to trauma, inflammation, burns, or surgical incisions. There are many types of skin scars, each with their own appearance, causes, and treatments.

Are there risk factors that increase the chance of developing a hypertrophic scar?
Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing hypertrophic scars:

• Burn wounds, especially second- and third-degree burns

• Systemic (whole-body) inflammation

• Poor wound healing caused by infections

• Genetics – raised scars, especially keloids, often run in families

How are hypertrophic scars treated?

• Corticosteroid injections: This is one of the main treatments for hypertrophic scars. The injections are delivered directly into the scar tissue to flatten and soften it, while also reducing pain and itchiness. Multiple sessions may be required, spaced a few weeks apart.