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Published on: 8/20/2026

Do self harm scars go away?

Self-harm scars typically don't disappear completely, but they can fade significantly over time. With proper treatment—such as silicone sheets, laser therapy, or topical scar creams—their appearance can be reduced substantially. Healing is gradual, and results vary based on scar depth, age, and skin type.

If you're noticing scars or urges related to self-harm, understanding the underlying causes is a critical first step toward healing. A free, private, and instant symptom check can help you identify what may be going on emotionally or physically, and guide you toward the right next steps—whether that's speaking with a professional, exploring treatment options, or simply gaining clarity. Taking a few minutes now can make a meaningful difference in your path forward.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/15/2026

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Explanation

When you hurt your skin, scars can form as your body heals. These scars are usually a permanent mark, although many people notice that they fade or become less visible over time. How much they fade depends on factors like your skin type, where the scar is on your body, and how deep the injury was. Some treatments may help make scars look better. For example, doctors sometimes use techniques like scar revision surgery, special skin grafts, or other therapies to help smooth or fade the scars. Even though these treatments can improve how the skin looks, they may not completely erase the scars. It is also important to care for your skin with gentle cleaning, moisturizing, and protecting it from the sun to help the healing process. Remember, scars tell a story of how you struggled and have worked through hard times, and over time they often become a part of who you are. If you are concerned about how your scars look or experiencing any related skin symptoms, try our free AI symptom checker or talk to a doctor or skin specialist to get more information on safe treatment options.

(References)

  • Brown BC, McKenna SP, Siddhi K, McGrouther DA, Bayat A. The hidden cost of skin scars: quality of life after skin scarring. J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg. 2008 Sep;61(9):1049-58. doi: 10.1016/j.bjps.2008.03.020. Epub 2008 Jul 9. PMID: 18617450.

  • Ho W, Jones CD, Anderson W. Deliberate self-harm scars: Review of the current literature. JPRAS Open. 2018 Apr 9;16:109-116. doi: 10.1016/j.jpra.2018.03.001. PMID: 32158821; PMCID: PMC7061641.

  • Takaya K, Hayashi R, Aramaki-Hattori N, Okabe K, Sakai S, Asou T, Kishi K. Treatment of Deliberate Self-harm Scars with Rotated Thin-skin Graft and Minced-skin Graft. Plast Reconstr Surg Glob Open. 2020 Aug 19;8(8):e3020. doi: 10.1097/GOX.0000000000003020. PMID: 32983777; PMCID: PMC7489652.

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