Understanding Scars

Vicky Eldridge
By Vicky Eldridge

Vicky Eldridge is an award-winning journalist, editor and copywriter, with 18 years’ experience in aesthetics.


Scars, a universal consequence of injury and surgery, can often leave a lasting physical and emotional impact. While they represent the body’s remarkable healing power, raised, discoloured, or itchy scars can significantly affect a person’s self-esteem and quality of life. In the UK, over 20 million people are living with significant scarring, of which almost one quarter have said this caused significant emotional or physical problems1.
 
Fortunately, advancements in technology are transforming the field of scar revision, offering practitioners exciting new tools to address these concerns. The journey towards optimal scar outcomes begins with understanding the different types:
Atrophic scars: Indented scars commonly associated with acne.
Hypertrophic scars: Raised scars confined to the original wound boundaries.
Keloid scars: Raised scars extending beyond the boundaries, often itchy and painful.
 
Traditionally, scar revision options have been limited, with varying degrees of success. However, the Alma Hybrid™ laser has emerged as a potential game-changer, backed by promising new research.
Types of scars
A groundbreaking study: The Alma Hybrid™ in action
A recent publication, “Keloid and Hypertrophic Scars Treatment”, published in Plastic Surgery (2024)2, sheds light on the effectiveness of the Alma Hybrid. The study evaluated the Hybrid Proscan applicator on 61 patients with both keloid and hypertrophic scars.
 
The results were impressive. Hypertrophic and keloid scar patients experienced significant reductions in their Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS) scores (62% ± 8% and 58% ± 7, respectively). This indicates a marked improvement in scar appearance2. Additionally, the study reported high patient satisfaction and minimal side effects2.
 
These findings position Alma Hybrid™ as a first line of treatment for scarring and a valuable addition specialists armamentarium.
 
Unveiling the power of three: The Alma Hybrid™ Technological Advantage
 
The Alma Hybrid™ stands out for its unique ability to combine three highly powerful, distinct yet complementary energy sources:
 
  • CO2 laser: This ablative laser precisely removes surface irregularities while stimulating collagen production for improved texture.
  • Erbium-Glass laser: This non-ablative 1540nm laser works deep within the skin, promoting collagen synthesis without damaging the surface.
  • Ultrasound technology: This innovative feature facilitates deeper penetration of the laser energy, allowing for more targeted and customised treatment.
This customisable synergy is what truly sets the Alma Hybrid™ apart. Alma’s patented HyGrid™ technology weaves these lasers into the ideal pattern. In the case of serious scarring, the two lasers can be stacked on top of each other, allowing the CO2 to reach much more profound depths for seriously transformative results. The HyGrid™ versatility allows practitioners to also adjust ablative-to-non-ablative ratios to:
 
  • Treat a range of the most complex scars (Keloid, Hypertrophic and Keloid) by precisely treating multiple skin layers with an ablative, thermal and coagulative effect at once.
  • Effectively balance results with recovery time for ultimate patient satisfaction.
  • Treat all skin tones, up to Fitzpatrick 6, with the correct preparation and aftercare.
 
This level of precision and control is unmatched in any other CO2 device, redefining both scar revision and advanced rejuvenation.
 
While clinical studies exemplify the Alma Hybrid’s ability to deliver positive clinical outcomes, Alma is partnering with select advanced practitioners in the UK to deliver incredible patient outcomes:
 
Khatra Patterson, Nurse and Founder of KP Aesthetics: “For many patients, prominent facial scars can be emotionally devastating. The Alma Hybrid allows me to finally offer them real hope for improvement.”
 
Dr Munir Somji, Founder and Clinical Director of Dr Medispa: “This technology is unlike anything else. The combination of CO2, Erbium-Glass, and ultrasound provides exceptional versatility for achieving the best possible outcomes, even for the most advanced scar types.”
Importance of Prioritising Practitioner Expertise.
Partnering for Success: Why Alma Prioritises Practitioner Expertise.
At Alma, we understand that advanced technology thrives in the hands of skilled practitioners. That’s why we prioritise fostering strong partnerships with the most experienced professionals to unlock the full potential of the Alma Hybrid™. 
 
The corresponding training pathway reflects the device’s premium nature, designed to further elevate expertise with personalised one-on-one sessions, exclusive masterclasses led by Key Opinion Leaders, and intimate Alma Hybrid User Meetings for knowledge exchange. 
 
Having just hosted the industry’s biggest education event, Alma Academy, in Barcelona, Alma is excited to connect new Alma Hybrid™ users with leading global scar experts at the upcoming Alma Academy Thailand in September. This exclusive opportunity fosters collaboration and best practice sharing, propelling Alma Hybrid™ users to the forefront of the advanced scar revision field.
 
By embracing the Alma Hybrid, you can expand your treatment options and elevate your practice to deliver superior scar revision outcomes for your patients. Embrace the future of scar revision. 
 
Contact Alma today to learn more about the Alma Hybrid.
 
References:
 
The Scar Free Foudation commissioned a Censuswide poll of 1,000 UK respondents, September 2019. 28% said they had a scar [Accessed About Scarring — The Scar Free Foundation March, 2024]
Menashe, S., Heller, L. Keloid and Hypertrophic Scars Treatment. Aesth Plast Surg (2024).
This article was written for the Consulting Room Magazine.
 
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