Learn about the dos and don’ts of scar management through the healing process from a board-certified dermatologic surgeon.
Omar A. Ibrahimi, M.D., Ph.D.
Dermatologic Surgeon, Connecticut Skin Institute; Member, American Society for Dermatologic Surgery
Scars are our body’s natural reaction to healing an injury to the skin. These injuries can result from traumatic injuries, bad acne, other skin conditions, or cosmetic and skin cancer surgeries. Luckily, proper care and the right procedures can significantly minimize their appearance. This guide offers handy tips and tricks to promote optimal scar healing.
Dos for scar management
- In the acute period after skin injury or surgery, keep the wound clean and moist. Always clean the wound with gentle soap and lukewarm water. After cleaning, apply petroleum jelly or an antibiotic ointment, if recommended by your physician, to keep the area moist, which helps prevent scab formation and helps the wound heal faster.
- Apply sunscreen. Once the wound has healed, protect the scar from sun exposure by applying a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. This helps prevent lingering redness and hyperpigmentation and allows the scar to fade faster.
- Following skin cancer surgery or cosmetic surgery, follow the post-operative instructions of your dermatologic surgeon. Some recommend activity restriction, which allows the body to focus on directing healing resources to the wound and minimizes the chance of the sutures popping or other complications. Eat a balanced diet to provide your body with nutrients that support healing.
- Consider silicone-based products. Silicone gel sheets or ointments are widely regarded as the first-line treatment for hypertrophic scars and keloids. While these products may have modest benefits in reducing the size, hardness, redness, swelling, and itching of raised scars, they are generally low-cost and widely available.
- Seek professional treatment with a dermatologic surgeon. Many minimally invasive skin treatments are available through your dermatologist that can minimize the appearance of your scar. Injections can help flatten raised or thickened scars. Lasers can be used to help reduce the redness or hyperpigmentation that occurs, as well as soften and blend scars quite significantly. Rarely, surgical scar revision can also be employed to help improve the appearance of the scar.
Don’ts for scar management
- Avoid things that irritate the scar. Refrain from picking at wounds or scabs during the healing process. This can lead to increased inflammation, scarring, and the risk of infection. Likewise, avoid any products that cause discomfort or irritate the scar, like hydrogen peroxide or alcohol.
- Avoid tanning. Both natural sunlight and tanning beds can darken scars, making them more noticeable. Always protect healing skin from ultraviolet (UV) exposure. Too much UV exposure also elevates your risk for skin cancer, which will lead to more scars from their removal.
- Don’t rush the healing process. Scar formation and maturation can take months to years. Be patient and consistent with your scar care routine for the best results.
By following these dos and don’ts, you can optimize your scar’s healing process and significantly improve its final appearance. Remember that every scar is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. If you have concerns about a scar or its treatment, always consult with a board-certified dermatologic surgeon for personalized advice and treatment options. You can find one near you at asds.net/Find.
For more information on scar treatments and other dermatologic procedures, visit asds.net/scars.
