Scars and stress

Abstract

Scars are the result of the wound healing process in the skin and other body tissues. Even though they are part of the normal process of healing, they can sometimes be bothersome. Inadequate scars can lead to loss of function, restriction of growth, restriction of movement (particularly because of contractures over joints), poor aesthetics, and adverse psychological effects. Although there are multitudes of options for the treatment of scars, prevention is still the best option. In this chapter we aim to show evidence that stress can affect wound healing producing unaesthetic scars such as keloids, as well as suggest possible solutions.