Atrophic Scar 

Atrophic scars can be flat or sunken in the skin. They may appear tethered, where the scar is attached to the tissues underneath and does not move freely, or indented, where there has been a loss of tissue beneath the skin. As they mature, atrophic scars can often be pale and smooth. 

How Atrophic Scars occur

In these types of scars, the body does not produce enough collagen during healing. 

This leaves a loss of tissue in the area, creating a dip or indentation in the skin. The surrounding skin may also appear thinner. Sometimes these scars can adhere (or "stick") to underlying tissues, under the scar. 

Indented scars are often linked to conditions where the skin structure is affected, such as acne or chickenpox. 

Typical Features of a atrophic scar: 

• Sunken or pitted appearance.  

• Skin may appear thinner in the area. 

• Often small depressions or indentations.

• Pinning in along the scar. 

How it may be treated 

Treatment may focus on improving the quality and function of the surrounding tissue and supporting collagen activity in the area. Treatment can include: scar massage, hydrating the scar and surrounding area, laser therapy, negative pressure.  

This can help improve how the skin feels and functions, even if the appearance does not fully change.