An abrasion is a type of wound in which the skin is scraped or rubbed off. When skin is dragged on carpet, the resulting wound, often called a carpet burn, is an abrasion. Abrasions are usually superficial wounds, meaning that only the outer layers of skin are affected. A deep abrasion, one that penetrates to the inner layers of skin, can leave a scar. Parts of the body with thin layers of skin, such as the knees and elbows, are most prone to abrasions.