Explanations of the most important scar terms

Lacerations

Lacerations are caused by blunt force, mainly on regions of the body where the skin lies directly on the bone, such as the skull, knee or shin.

Larger lacerations should be treated by a doctor. Stitches may be necessary, particularly if the scar is on a part of the skin that is stretched often such as the knee or elbow – otherwise the wound may reopen.

Smaller lacerations should be treated just like any other wound: they must be cleaned and covered properly so that the injury can heal safely.