In time, some collagen breaks down at the site of the wound and the blood supply reduces. The scar gradually becomes smoother and softer. Although scars are permanent, they can fade over a period of up to 2 years. It's unlikely they'll fade any more after this time.

Do scars ever completely go away?

No scar will ever totally go away, but it can certainly improve in appearance, if you treat it right. Learn about why we get scars (that ugly replacement skin was just trying to protect us!), and you may start to appreciate them. Learn how to treat scars, and you may significantly fade them.

How long does it take for scarring to fade?

It can take up to 12-18 months after your injury or operation for a scar to heal. A normal scar will become darker initially and after a period of time this will start to fade. Dark scars can remain for years or indefinitely in people with darker skin.