Knowledge → What are Scars?

What is a scar?

Scarring is a natural part of your body’s healing process.

When your skin is injured, your body works quickly to repair it by producing collagen, a protein that helps rebuild and strengthen the area. At first, the scar may look red and raised — this happens because new collagen forms rapidly, and the blood supply to the area increases. Over time, the scar gradually softens, flattens, and fades as the healing process continues.

Scars are permanent, but they can fade significantly — especially with the right care. Most scars improve for up to two years before settling into their final appearance.

Do surgery incisions leave scars?

Yes, every surgical incision leaves a mark — it’s a normal part of healing. When a cut extends into the deeper layers of skin, the body repairs it by forming scar tissue. However, not all scars are the same.

The size and depth of the incision play a role in how noticeable a scar becomes. Larger cuts may take longer to heal and are more likely to be affected by movement, which can make scarring more visible.

The good news? You can do a lot to help your scar heal well. With the right care, surgical scars can fade significantly—sometimes to the point where they’re barely noticeable.

Learn more about supporting your scar’s healing in Snippet #4: Treating Your Scar.

How does a scar mature?

To support healthy scar maturation, consider:

• Hydration & nourishment – Using a product specifically designed for scar care can support healing and prevent dryness.
• Scar massage – Gently massaging your scar can help keep the tissue flexible and reduce stiffness.
• Protection from stress & sun exposure – Avoid pulling or stretching the area, especially in the early stages. And keeping your scar out of the sun is just as important, as UV exposure can darken scars and make them more noticeable. Make sure you cover your scar or use high-SPF sunscreen to protect it while it heals.

Most scars heal well, but some may become thicker or raised — such as hypertrophic or keloid scars. If your scar feels tight, continues to grow, or becomes uncomfortable, check in with your doctor for advice.

You can learn more about hypertrophic or keloid scars in Snippet #2: Categories of Scars.

It’s a good idea to keep an eye on your scar, and if it becomes more prominent or painful, contact your medical practitioner.

The Nokori Team