Scar Management in Johannesburg | Dr Deon Weyers
A scar cannot be erased, but its appearance can often be improved. The practice uses two approaches: Dermapen skin needling for established scars and Scar Science silicone care for healing scars.
Scars form as part of normal healing after injury, acne or surgery. How a scar looks depends on its age, location, skin type and how it was cared for while healing. Scar management focuses on improving texture, colour and visibility, and on supporting healthy healing in newer scars.
Scar treatments are provided at the practice at Life Fourways Hospital in Johannesburg, under the care of board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr Deon Weyers.
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Scar Treatment in Johannesburg
People searching for scar removal in Johannesburg usually want a scar to be less noticeable. The honest aim of scar management is improvement, not removal, and the right approach depends on the type of scar and how long it has been there.
Established scars, such as acne scarring or marks left by cuts, abrasions and other injuries, respond to treatments that remodel the skin. Dermapen skin needling creates thousands of tiny, controlled channels in the skin, which the body treats as minor injuries. This triggers the release of growth factors and the production of new collagen and elastin.
- Dermapen skin needling
- Scar Science silicone
- Acne scarring
- Post-surgical scars
- Collagen remodelling
Newer scars benefit most from good care while they mature. Silicone scar products help keep a healing scar hydrated and supported, which encourages a more favourable scar. Starting the right care early, once the wound has closed, matters more than any single treatment later on.
If you are preparing for surgery, the practice’s guidance on scar prevention explains how scars are minimised from the start, and the article on what you need to know about scarring covers how scars form and change.

Scar Science Silicone Scar Care
Scar Science is a silicone-based scar product formulated to support the formation of well-organised collagen in a healing scar. Silicone is widely used in scar care because it forms a breathable barrier that locks in moisture.
Scar Science also has anti-inflammatory properties that help control healing and provides physical support to the scar. It is applied once the wound has closed, following the product directions and the practice’s advice.
Scar management is about improvement over time. A realistic plan considers the scar’s age, cause and location, and combines in-rooms treatment with consistent home care where appropriate.
Dermapen Skin Needling vs Scar Science Silicone Care
Dermapen Skin Needling
An in-rooms treatment that uses a sterile needle head to create micro-channels in the skin, stimulating collagen and elastin production.
Used for established scars such as acne scarring, and also to improve fine lines and pore size. Usually planned as a course.
Scar Science Silicone
A silicone-based product applied to the scar at home to keep it hydrated and supported while it matures.
Used for newer scars, including surgical scars, once the wound has fully closed.
| Aspect | Dermapen skin needling | Scar Science silicone |
|---|---|---|
| Where it happens | In-rooms at the practice | At home, as part of daily care |
| Typical scar | Established scars, including acne scarring | Healing and maturing scars |
| How it works | Controlled micro-injury prompts collagen remodelling | Hydration, barrier and support for the scar |
| Time per session | About 20 minutes for face and neck; up to 60 minutes for body areas | Applied as directed |
| Downtime | Redness and flaking for 12 to 48 hours | None |
| When to start | Once a scar has settled, as assessed at consultation | Once the wound has closed |
The Skin Needling Process
Dermapen skin needling is performed in-rooms at the Fourways practice with a topical anaesthetic. No general anaesthetic is needed.
Scar assessment
The type, age and location of the scar are assessed, along with your skin type and goals, and the most suitable approach is agreed.
Numbing the skin
A topical anaesthetic cream is applied before treatment to keep the procedure comfortable.
Treatment
The Dermapen is moved gently over the skin with a sterile needle head. Treatment of the face and neck takes about 20 minutes; body areas can take up to 60 minutes.
Early aftercare
Expect superficial flaking and redness for 12 to 48 hours. Keep the skin clean and hydrated with a recommended product such as Aquaphor, Vaseline or aqueous cream.
Course and review
New collagen remodels over time, so improvement is assessed over weeks and further sessions are planned as needed.
Who May Benefit From Scar Management
Scar treatment is considered for people whose scars affect their confidence or comfort and who want a realistic, step-by-step improvement.
- Acne scarring – Textured or pitted scars left after acne has settled
- Scars from injury – Marks from cuts, abrasions and other physical trauma
- Surgical scars – Scars after an operation, managed with silicone care while healing
- Skin texture concerns – Fine lines and enlarged pores, which skin needling can also improve
- Settled skin – No active acne flare or infection in the treatment area
- Commitment to sun protection – Daily sun protection to protect healing skin and reduce pigmentation
Some scars, such as raised or spreading scars, need a different plan. This is identified at the assessment.
Preparing for Scar Treatment
Good preparation helps you get the most from scar treatment and protects your skin during healing.
- Bring your history.Tell the practice how and when the scar formed, and about any previous treatments, skin conditions or cold sores.
- Pause active skincare.Stop exfoliating products and retinoids for the period advised before skin needling.
- Protect from the sun.Use daily sun protection before and after treatment, as sun exposure can darken healing skin.
- Plan home care.Have a gentle moisturiser ready, and follow silicone scar care consistently if it forms part of your plan.
What Scar Management Costs
The cost of scar management depends on the treatment chosen, the size of the area and the number of skin needling sessions needed. A quote is provided once your scar has been assessed.
Silicone scar products are priced separately from in-rooms treatments.
Cosmetic scar treatment is generally not covered by South African medical aids. Where scarring follows an injury or a medical condition, the practice can advise on whether a motivation to your medical aid is appropriate.
Common Misconceptions About Scars
Expectations shape how satisfied people feel with scar treatment. These are the points most often misunderstood.
Risks and Possible Side Effects
Possible Side Effects of Scar Treatment
Expected effects of skin needling: redness, superficial flaking and mild sensitivity for 12 to 48 hours, sometimes with pinpoint bleeding during treatment.
Pigment changes: temporary darkening or lightening of the skin can occur, particularly in darker skin types and with sun exposure.
Infection and cold sores: uncommon, but treated skin must be kept clean. A history of cold sores should be mentioned beforehand.
Silicone products: occasional skin irritation, which is managed by adjusting use as advised.
Protecting Your Skin
- Keep treated skin clean – and use only the products recommended for the first days.
- Use sun protection daily – to reduce the risk of pigmentation.
- Avoid picking flaking skin – and let it shed naturally.
- Report unusual reactions early – such as worsening redness, swelling or blistering.
Contact the practice if treated skin becomes increasingly painful, swollen or hot, if blisters or crusting develop, or if you develop a fever. Early review allows prompt treatment.
Medical disclaimer. This page is general information and does not replace a face-to-face consultation. Treatment decisions require an in-person assessment, a full consent discussion and individual medical advice.
Scar Science and Scar Treatment: Frequently Asked Questions
Does Scar Science work on old scars?
Silicone scar care is most useful while a scar is still maturing. Older, settled scars usually respond better to collagen-stimulating treatment such as skin needling. The best option for your scar is confirmed at assessment.
How do I use Scar Science gel?
Apply it to a clean, closed scar following the product directions and the practice’s advice. Consistent daily use matters more than the amount applied.
How many skin needling sessions will I need?
Most scars need a course of sessions, with time between them for collagen to remodel. The number depends on the type and depth of the scar.
Is skin needling painful?
A topical anaesthetic is applied before treatment, so most people feel pressure and mild discomfort rather than pain.
How much downtime is there?
Expect redness and flaking for 12 to 48 hours. Most people return to normal routines quickly, keeping the skin clean, hydrated and protected from the sun. See the practice’s tips on supporting skin healing.
Can scar treatment be combined with other treatments?
Skin needling can form part of a wider plan that includes chemical peels or Sculptra. Treatments are spaced so that the skin can recover between them.
Where is scar treatment done?
At the practice at Life Fourways Hospital in Johannesburg.
Speak to Dr Deon Weyers About Scar Management
Dr Deon Weyers is a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon, registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa and a member of APRASSA. Non-surgical treatments are provided at the practice’s single location at Life Fourways Hospital in Johannesburg.
Call 011 875 1694
Office hours: Monday to Thursday 08:00 – 17:00, Friday 08:00 – 14:00 · send a message
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