ABSTRACT
Abnormally pigmented scars are an undesirable consequence of cutaneous wound healing
and are a complication every single individual worldwide is at risk of. They present
a challenge for clinicians, as there are currently no definitive treatment options
available, and render scars much more noticeable making them highly distressing for
patients. Despite extensive research into both wound healing and the pigment cell,
there remains a scarcity of knowledge surrounding the repigmentation of cutaneous
scars. Pigment production is complex and under the control of many extrinsic and intrinsic
factors and patterns of scar repigmentation are unpredictable. This article gives
an overview of human skin pigmentation, repigmentation following wounding and current
treatment options.
KEY WORDS
Melanin - melanogenesis - pigmentation - scar(s) - wound