Caring For A Scar: Three Approaches To Consider

Posted on: 20 December 2021

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Whether you've gotten a serious cut or you're healing from surgery, you may be concerned with how to minimize the appearance of scarring after your wound has healed. Fortunately, there are many approaches you can use to help reduce the look of a scar and help promote the healing process. Here are some helpful tips you can use to care for your scar. 

Moisturization 

Moisturizing is essential for skin to remain healthy-looking, and that extends to scars. You can keep the area moisturized and hydrated using petroleum jelly or cocoa butter on the area of concern. Be sure to consult with your doctor first, as some topical products might not be recommended until specific stages in the healing process. Regular application of these simple and wholesome options is ideal for those looking for natural products to use on their skin. Cocoa butter can even be used on areas without scarring to help maintain your skin's natural beauty.

Massages

Scar tissue can harden over time, which can result in the scarring becoming more prominent. After the wound has healed, you can massage the area gently throughout the day to help keep the skin soft and supple. Just a light massage with your fingertips is enough to do the trick. Being too forceful can potentially damage the skin, and it can also cause some discomfort. Your doctor can show you different approaches to use when massaging scar tissue. 

Prescription Scar Gel Treatments

For severe scarring, or for areas where you're experiencing swelling and redness, your doctor might recommend a prescription scar gel treatment. Treatment using silicone, steroids, and antihistamines are all options to discuss with your doctor. These prescriptions should be used as directed for the proper amount of time to see results. You can use the scar gel treatment in conjunction with regular massages to help the scarring fade and keep the skin soft as the wound continues to heal. Some prescriptions, such as antihistamines, may also minimize the itching that can occur as cuts and incisions heal over time, providing an added benefit and greater comfort. Silicone gels and sheets can help prevent hardened, raised scars from appearing, providing a smart choice for post-surgical incisions or areas where more serious injuries have occurred. 

Your dermatologist or primary care physician can create a complete plan for helping your wounds heal and reducing the look of scars. Be sure to consult with them before using any additional skin products or other medications to help prevent potential interactions or damage to the wound. 

For more information, reach out to a company such as Avocet Polymer Technologies Inc.