Scars on legs and arms
Limb scars may follow injury, surgery, burns, infection, acne or inflammation. They can be flat, raised, sunken, widened or differently coloured. Location matters because tension across joints and slower lower-leg healing affect symptoms and treatment.
What you may notice
- Flat or widened pale lines
- Raised, firm or itchy tissue
- Depressed or tethered areas
- Dark or red colour around a scar
- Tightness near a joint
Why it can happen
Depth of injury, infection, wound tension, circulation, genetics and skin tone influence healing. Keloids grow beyond the original injury. Some lesions resembling scars require diagnosis before cosmetic treatment.
What may help
Sun protection can reduce contrast. Silicone, pressure or injections may help selected raised scars; laser, microneedling, subcision or revision address other features. Treatment near joints must preserve movement, and poor circulation or inflammation should be managed first.
When to consult
Consult a clinician for a growing, painful, ulcerated, bleeding or infected scar, restricted movement, or poor lower-leg healing.
Evidence and sources
- National Health Service. Scars [Internet]. London: National Health Service; 2023 [cited 2026 Nov 7]. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/scars/ (new tab)
- DermNet. Keloid and hypertrophic scar [Internet]. Auckland: DermNet; 2022 [cited 2026 Nov 7]. Available from: https://dermnetnz.org/topics/keloid-and-hypertrophic-scar (new tab)
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Skin rejuvenation and resurfacing [Internet]. Arlington Heights (IL): American Society of Plastic Surgeons; [cited 2026 Nov 7]. Available from: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/skin-rejuvenation-and-resurfacing (new tab)