I agree that they definitely add character, but some people can't handle scars...not the ones that are self inflicted. I guess it depends the person, but sometimes its just too hard saying the truth about them because people around me won't be able to handle the fact that I cut myself... And I could be all proud and say "F THEM!" but the truth is that I would be alone in a heartbeat. I would not want to put the bargain of this issue on my siblings, my parents, it would be just too hard for them. But I get what you mean, I also do agree, some scars may actually be sexy, but for me it depends...
I absolutely get where you're coming from. I think whether or not you're comfortable showing your scars is entirely a personal desicion that depends very much on who you're surrounded by, your current situation, your degree of recovery, etc. Especially because mentioning this kind of stuff can make others very uncomfortable or be a source of embarrasment, especially if you come from a family that tends to keep these things on the down-low.
I have a friend with a past of self-harming, and she no longer does it, but she has residual scars. She doesn't flaunt them, but she doesn't attempt to hide them either, and I really respect her for being honest if/when people ask about them. I guess, for me, I'm at a life stage where people can either take me or leave me as I am. I am fine with people disliking things about me, and the people I surround myself with will recieve the honest, truest side of me, since I have no desire to be around those who won't accept this. That said, I am lucky enough/cursed (depending on how you look at it) at come from a very open, honest family. For example, my father is an alcoholic in recovery, and whenever someone offers him a drink, he will say, "No thanks, Im an alcoholic!" With no apology, no trace of shame, just offering it as a fact of life. I'm the same way when it comes to my GAD/OCD - I don't try to hide my anxiety issues or my past history with depression. I used to, but I find it much easier and more freeing to discuss them with people if they become an issue OR if they're pertinent in some other way. Same goes for my fiance, who battles depression - I don't sugar coat this if it's necessary for me to speak about it (but I don't necessarily offer the information freely if it's not relevant). But again, I am lucky enough to have very open relationships with plenty of free discourse with my family, my friends, and even my boss, so it makes it easy. Also, I never, ever was in this place a few years ago - I used to be much more sensitive about these issues, until I realized that very few people are perfectly well adjusted and not dealing with their own shit - so why not connect with others and admit your imperfections, I guess is my philosophy.