How to reduce scarring after a wound
Most of what determines a scar happens in the first few weeks, and sun is the biggest avoidable factor.
You cannot prevent a scar where the skin was broken through its full thickness. You can influence how noticeable it ends up.
Keep it covered and moist
Wounds kept covered and at the right moisture level scar less than those left to dry into a hard scab. This is the single most useful thing you can do early.
Do not pick
Removing a scab tears the new surface underneath and restarts the process, adding to the eventual scar.
Protect from sun, seriously
New scar tissue pigments readily. Sun exposure in the first twelve months can turn a fine scar permanently dark. Keep it covered or use high-factor sunscreen once the wound is closed.
Silicone, once closed
Silicone gel or sheeting has reasonable evidence behind it for flattening and softening scars. Start only once the wound is fully closed, and expect to use it consistently for weeks.
Massage
Gentle massage of a closed scar can help it soften. Do not start until the skin is intact.
Get advice about
Scars that thicken and rise above the skin, spread beyond the original wound, or restrict movement across a joint.
See a pharmacist, GP or urgent care if a wound will not stop bleeding after ten minutes of firm pressure, is deep or gaping, was caused by something dirty or rusty, contains anything you cannot flush out, or shows spreading redness, heat, swelling, pus or a fever. Get help urgently for animal or human bites, wounds over a joint, and any wound in someone with diabetes or poor circulation.
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FitMedix products are CE-marked medical devices intended for the care of minor wounds. This site does not provide medical advice — seek professional help for deep, dirty or non-healing wounds, or if signs of infection appear. Always read the instructions on the pack.