If you have scars from self-harm, you may have spent years working around them. Long sleeves in summer, avoiding the gym or the beach, choosing clothes based on what they might reveal. For many people, there comes a point where those scars feel like part of a chapter that has closed, and they want their skin to reflect where they are now.
At House of Skincare in Newton Abbot, we treat self-harm scarring with care, discretion and a personalised approach. We’ve also learned that many people don’t realise specialist treatment is available locally, with some prepared to travel well outside Devon to find it. This guide explains which treatments can help, what results you can realistically expect, and what happens when you come and see us.
Yes. While scars can rarely be erased completely, their appearance can often be improved significantly. Treatment works on texture, depth, colour and how noticeable the scars are, helping them sit flatter and blend more naturally with the surrounding skin.
Self-harm scarring varies a great deal from person to person, which is why there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Common types include:
Many people have a mix of these, sometimes across different areas such as the forearms, upper arms or thighs. Identifying what you have is the first step towards choosing the right treatment.
The best treatment for self-harm scars is the one matched to your scar type, skin tone and how long the scars have been there. At our clinic, three treatments form the foundation of most scar plans.
Microneedling uses very fine needles to create tiny, controlled channels in the skin. This prompts the body’s natural repair process, encouraging fresh collagen and elastin to form and gradually remodel scar tissue.
It works well for flatter, older scars and mild texture irregularities. Downtime is minimal, usually a day or two of mild redness, and it is suitable for most skin types and tones.
EndyMed RF Microneedling takes the principle of microneedling a step further. The Intensif handpiece delivers radiofrequency energy beneath the surface through insulated needles, gently heating the deeper layers where scar tissue sits.
This makes it particularly effective for thicker, raised or well-established scars, and for larger areas such as forearms and thighs. Because the energy is delivered below the surface rather than on top of it, it is generally well suited to a wide range of skin tones.
AgeJET is an advanced non-surgical treatment designed to refine skin texture and target irregularities on the surface. For self-harm scarring, it can help soften the visible edges of scars and smooth uneven areas, making them less noticeable at a glance.
Because many people have more than one type of scarring, the most effective plans often combine treatments. For example, RF microneedling might be used to work on depth and thickness while AgeJET refines the surface. Dermalux LED Light Therapy can also be added to support the skin’s recovery between sessions.
Aftercare matters too. Daily SPF is essential, as sun exposure can darken scars and make them more visible. We’ll recommend suitable AlumierMD skincare to protect and support your skin throughout your course.
We believe in being honest with every client. Scar improvement is gradual because collagen takes time to rebuild, and results continue to develop for several months after your final session.
Most people notice their scars become:
For many of our clients, the biggest change is how they feel. Wearing a T-shirt without thinking twice, or no longer planning outfits around their arms, can make a real difference to everyday confidence.
This depends on your scars and the treatment chosen. Most people need a course of several sessions spaced a few weeks apart. We’ll give you a clear plan, including timings and costs, at your consultation so there are no surprises.
From a skin perspective, scars need to be fully healed before treatment. Very new scars are still changing, so we generally recommend waiting until they have settled, and we’ll assess this with you at your consultation.
Emotionally, there is no set timeline. Some people see scar treatment as a positive step forward, while others prefer to wait. Both are completely valid.
If you are currently struggling or still self-harming, please reach out for support before considering treatment. You can speak to your GP, contact Samaritans free on 116 123 at any time, or visit Mind for information and support. Your wellbeing comes first, and we’ll be here whenever you feel ready.
We understand that booking an appointment for self-harm scarring can feel like a big step. Your consultation is private, relaxed and completely free from judgement.
You won’t need to explain how or why your scars happened. We’ll simply ask what is relevant to your treatment, such as how long the scars have been there, then assess your skin, talk through your options and answer any questions. There is no pressure to book treatment on the day.
Many of our clients tell us that making the first enquiry was the hardest part, and that they wish they had done it sooner.
Our clinic is based in Newton Abbot, within easy reach of Exeter, Torquay, Teignmouth and the wider Devon area. You don’t need to travel out of the county to access specialist scar treatment. Experienced, discreet care is available close to home.
Self-harm scars can be improved with the right treatment plan. Microneedling, EndyMed RF Microneedling and AgeJET each work in different ways to soften texture, flatten raised areas and help scars blend more naturally with your skin. Results build gradually, and a tailored plan matched to your scar type gives you the best chance of meaningful improvement.
If you’re ready to explore your options, get in touch with House of Skincare to book a private consultation. We’ll take the time to understand your skin and create a plan that feels right for you.