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Hypertrophic Scars

There are two main types of abnormal scars: Hypertrophic and Keloid scars. These scars are considered abnormal because, unlike other scars, they have the potential to expand. However, while Keloid scars have the ability to expand beyond the original boundary of the scar, Hypertrophic scars must stay within the boundary, but can expand outward typically resulting in an elevated thick raised, red, pink or purple bump. 
Hypertrophic scars usually develop within 4 to 8 weeks following the skin trauma and often the skin is tighter.  Hypertrophic scars can continue to develop for up to 6 months following the injury and may take up to one year to heal.  Hypertrophic scars develop in areas with high tension such as shoulders, neck, chest, abdomen, knees and ankles.  They usually form as a result of excess dermal collagen—meaning too much tissue. 

While Hypertrophic scars can produce pain, they are sometimes itchy and are almost always sensitive to touch. Hypertrophic scars are most commonly found on individuals with darker skin and typically develop as a result of trauma to the skin such as a surgery scar or severe burn. If you have experienced hypertrophic scars in the past, you have a higher chance of developing them again.  As a result of the locations where Hypertrophic scars typically develop, trying to heal them can be difficult.  Once you have been discharged from your health care provider, trying to apply the bandages, silicone sheets and ointments may be difficult to maintain once you are at home.  One of the best ways to manage Hypertrophic scars is to apply a silicone scar management treatment gel, cream, or pad after the initial wound has healed. This is because the silicone barrier will protect the scar site from bacteria and irritants allowing it to heal without the threat of infection.  Once it is placed or applied over the scar, the silicone allows the Hypertrophic scar to draw moisture from the surrounding, unaffected areas of the skin.

Topical silicone gel can help target the hypertrophic area while providing a protective, waterproof barrier from chemicals, and infections which will provide you with the ultimate protection of the  wound area.  As a result, your scar will typically become less visible. Many studies have been conducted on the efficacy of the use of silicone gel for the management of hypertrophic scars with remarkable results.  Silicone has been recommended as first-line therapy for scar treatment management and abnormal scar prevention by the International Clinical Recommendations on Scar Management.2 You will find that using a silicone gel product will provide you with an ultra-thin, custom silicone barrier that will aid you in healing and minimizing the appearance of your hypertrophic scar.

References:
Mol Med. 2011 Jan-Feb; 17(1-2): 113–125.  Published online 2010 October 5. doi:   10.2119/molmed.2009.00153
Mustoe TA et al. Plast Reconstr Surg 2002;110:560-571.