Scars fade over time, but if you want to remove or further minimize them, it’s not always easy. There are so many different types of scars — raised hypertrophic, thick keloids, and contractures — and each type will require a different approach. Your age, skin color, scar location, and how long you’ve had it, are other important factors when deciding on a treatment. So seeking out a specialist with the skill and experience to improve the look of your scar is going to make a difference in the final result, says the American Academy of Dermatology.

Examining your scar is the first step so your dermatologist can recommend an effective treatment. Lots of good options exist, such as pressure therapy, retinoids, silicone sheets, lasers and other light treatments, microneedling, fillers, corticosteroid injections, cryosurgery, and scar revision through surgical excision.

Melanin-rich skin is another consideration when deciding on options, as it’s more likely to be irritated and inflamed by peels and lasers, or become darker in the areas treated. “Not every procedure we do in lighter skin is good for darker skin,” warns Dr. Jasmine Onyeka Obioha, a Cedars-Sinai dermatologist. “So patients have to be really intentional in seeing someone who is experienced with a diverse patient group.”