It's quite common to feel that way ab out your scars, For me thankfully most of my scars from the time I did self harm aren't very visible unless I get a sun tan so it's not that big of an issue for me but I know a lot of ppl who try to use creams that reduce or fade scars over time; it's something u can consider.

I feel the same and find others quite triggering that display their scars. However I've got to a point where I can talk about it with people. For me harming is what it is and that's all I can say about it. They are my war wounds of survival. That doesn't mean I'm gonna let u look at them or explain how and why. I got them as a means of survival.

I think that scars are more common then u think. Try wearing short sleeves at home and seeing how u feel. Then maybe with a friend that is aware of it scars or understanding and build confidence that way.

I am proud of my scars, not proud because of why I got them, but proud because they are a part of me, and they show me that I survived a though period in my life. I just learned to live with them, and I don't care if people look at them, they are mine and no one can change who I was.
You should be proud, not because you got scars, but because you survived that period of your life. :)

I went trhough diferent stages with my scars(most of them are in my left arm) first I didnt let anyone to see them and had them always covered, then I started to left them uncovered with peolple who knew about them and after that in places where nobody knew me like malls, places where I didnt have to interact with others too much. And this year I started to wear short sleeves shirts whenever I am hot no matter who is around me and to my surprise not many people asked me about my scars. Although I am still unconfotable letting them uncover I think it is getting better with time....I mean, me accepting they are not going to leave and that they are a reminder of all I have survivied.

It took a long time for me to accept my scars. I've gotten to the point where I am not ashamed to show them, because in reality, it was a time in my life where that is how I chose to FEEL something. Whatever emotion it may have been, it's how I felt at the time, and that's the reason I did it. Emotions are nothing to be ashamed of. We all have them. I've been clean for about three years now, and I am no longer afraid to wear shorts sleeves or short shorts, if I am, it's because I struggle with my weight. Not my scars. My nieces and nephews have asked me what they are, and with their parents permission I explain that that's how Aunt Emily used to deal with hard times in her life. I explain to them why it is not the best decision, and how it not only hurts them but other people. I don't let my scars control me anymore.

I'm not saying everyone is like me, and can just deal with these things by turning them into a learning experience for others....I got confident because I became indifferent to what people may think of them. If other people think they're ugly or offensive, good for them. They are close minded and ignorant and can....well, stick it where the sun don't shine. All that matters is how I feel about them, and I see them as a part of me. A reason I am strong, a reason I am the person I am today. It takes time and acceptance from yourself, and only you can know when you're ready. I hope this helps a little.