When one contracts the highly contagious skin ailment of chicken pox, there is a chance that lasting scars could be a result. This illness is brought about by an infection with the variclla zoster virus (VZV) through either airborne means or direct contact with the rash itself. Upon exposure to VZV, the body produces a host of antibodies that persist for life and can later cause an exacerbation of a viral infection called shingles.

Those most susceptible to chicken pox are children 12 and under. That said, adults do have the possibility of contraction. The first symptom is that of red, itch skin rashes that generally appear on the back, face, and abdomen. In three to five days time, the rash proliferates into small crops of red bumps that have the appearance of pimples or insect bites. After this stage, it could spread to the rest of the body as this walled blisters that cover the ears, scalp, nose, and genitals. As the walls of these blisters break, open sores are exposed that are prone to further infection. Eventually, provided there is no infection, the open sores form a crust that covers them. Within two weeks time, the scab will fall off completely. The hazard is that they will leave behind a crater like scar.

Moreover, coughing, headaches, and fever are the flu like symptoms that are associated with chicken pox. The worst complications come in the form of pneumonia and bacterial infections.

It is important when treating this illness to stay at home to avoid spreading it through contagion. One can neither offer themselves the luxury of scratching the pock marks. This helps ward off skin disfigurations of deeper scars and blisters.

If scars are left over from the healed blisters, there are a variety of treatments one can choose from. Dermabrasion is a skin resurfacing scars treatment that is effective as it exfoliates at a deep level within the skin. However it is invasive and can leave the patient with months recuperating. Chemical peels employ a chemical solution to cause the scar to "blister" and ultimately peel off. The skin regenerates itself during the healing process, and the result is a smoother and more balanced tone. However the side effects are substantial in that the patient experiences stinging and burning sensations afterwards. This in addition to redness on the treated area that could last for weeks, and even the possibility of hyperpigmentation.