Chickenpox is one of the most common childhood illnesses. It is highly contagious and can cause a lot of discomfort for young children. Unfortunately, in some cases, chickenpox can leave scars on the skin.

These scars can be unsightly and can cause embarrassment for the child later in life. But what happens when these scars cause the skin to change color?.

What is Chickenpox?

Chickenpox is a viral illness caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It is characterized by a rash that covers the entire body, including the face, trunk, and limbs.

The rash starts off as small red bumps that quickly turn into vesicles, which then scab over and fall off. The bumps and blisters can be extremely itchy and uncomfortable.

Why Do Chickenpox Scars Form?

Chickenpox scarring occurs when the vesicles or blisters burst or are scratched. This can cause the skin to become inflamed and scarred. Depending on the severity of the chickenpox, the scars can range from small marks to larger, more noticeable scars.

Can Chickenpox Scars Cause Your Skin to Change Color?

In some cases, chickenpox scars can cause the skin to change color. This is more likely to happen when a child has a lot of scars, or if the scars are very pronounced.

The skin around the scar tissue can become darkened, which can be particularly noticeable on lighter skin tones.

When the skin is damaged, it releases melanin to repair itself. Melanin is the pigment that gives our skin its color. When the skin releases too much melanin, it can cause the skin to become hyperpigmented, or darker.

Hyperpigmentation is a common side effect of scars, particularly on the face, arms, and legs. In many cases, hyperpigmentation will fade over time. However, on occasion, it can be permanent.

How Can You Treat Chickenpox Scars?

There are a number of treatments available for chickenpox scars, including:.

Topical Creams: There are a number of creams available that can help reduce the appearance of scars. These creams typically contain ingredients like onion extract or vitamin E, which can help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
Laser Treatment: Laser treatment can be used to reduce the appearance of scars. This treatment works by targeting the scar tissue with a laser beam, which removes the top layer of skin and can stimulate cell production.
Surgical Treatment: For more severe cases, surgical treatment may be necessary. This can include excision, where the scar tissue is removed and the skin is stitched back together, or skin grafting, where skin from another area of the body is transplanted onto the scar tissue.

Can You Prevent Chickenpox Scarring?

While there’s no guaranteed way to prevent chickenpox scarring, there are a number of steps you can take to reduce the risk:.

Avoid Scratching: Scratching the blisters can cause scarring. Be sure to trim your child’s nails and use mittens to prevent them from scratching their skin.
Don’t Pick At Scabs: Picking at chickenpox scabs can cause permanent scarring. Encourage your child to let the scabs fall off naturally.
Use Cooling Treatments: Applying a cool compress or using a calamine lotion can help reduce the itching and inflammation associated with chickenpox.

Conclusion

Chickenpox is a common childhood illness that can be very uncomfortable. While most children recover fully without any lasting effects, some children may be left with scars.

In some cases, these scars can cause the skin to change color, particularly if there are a lot of scars or if they are very pronounced. If your child has chickenpox, be sure to take steps to prevent scratching and scab-picking to reduce the risk of scarring.