Why Do Scars Not Tan?

3 July 2018, 16:08

Mystery Hour Question

Question: I’ve noticed none of the scars on my arms are tanned. Why? Isn’t scar tissue just skin?

Name: John, Epsom

Answer:

Name: Terry, Cranbrook

Qualification: Paramedic for 15 years and also had his knee replaced a few weeks ago.

Also, his scar on his leg is purple.

This will go white eventually, he says.

Answer: Scars are fibrous tissue and they can’t produce melanin and because they can’t produce melanin, they can’t tan.