How can I get rid of self harm scars?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Self-harm scars can be treated through several medical options, including scar revision surgery, silicone-based ointments, corticosteroid injections, and laser therapy, all of which can significantly reduce their appearance. However, addressing the underlying emotional causes—such as anxiety, depression, or trauma—is the most critical step in long-term healing.

If you're experiencing urges to self-harm or struggling with difficult emotions, understanding what's driving these feelings is essential to finding the right support. Take a free, instant, online symptom check to better understand your mental and physical health and get guidance on what steps to take next. It only takes a few minutes and can help you make informed decisions about care.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/15/2026

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Explanation

There are different ways to improve the look of self-harm scars. One option is scar revision surgery, where a doctor may remove the scar tissue and use a skin graft to help make the scar less visible.

Some people find that creams or laser treatments help even out the color and texture of their skin over time. It is important to know that no treatment will completely erase the scars, and results can vary from person to person.

Beyond treating physical scars, it is critical to talk with a mental health professional or trusted doctor about the feelings that come with self-harm. If you're experiencing concerning symptoms or need help understanding what you're going through, you can check your symptoms to get personalized guidance on next steps. Taking care of your emotional well-being is just as important as taking care of your physical health.

(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.
Todd J, Ud-Din S, Bayat A. Extensive self-harm scarring: successful treatment with simultaneous use of a single layer skin substitute and split-thickness skin graft. Eplasty. 2012;12:e23. Epub 2012 May 21. PMID: 22662281; PMCID: PMC3359068.
Parkhouse N, de Vere Hunt IJ. Self-harm scar revision. BMJ Case Rep. 2018 Mar 21;2018:bcr2017222490. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2017-222490. PMID: 29563126; PMCID: PMC5878410.

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