Scar care: the best tips for proper healing

Patience is key

Fresh scars are usually reddish and raised, but become less noticeable and more elastic over time. You can influence this healing process: scar care begins two to four weeks after an injury or operation, depending on the size and severity of the scar, and aims to prevent the wounded tissue from sticking out too much from the surrounding skin colour. It is important to only start care once your doctor has given the permission. The wound needs to be scab-free and closed and that no more wound secretions escape. Any stitches or staples must also have been removed.  If the wound is sore, swollen or reddened, you should also wait before treating it.

Scar tissue is of poorer quality than normal skin, as it lacks hair as well as sweat and sebaceous glands. The healing process also depends heavily on the size of the scar, wound hygiene, your age, genetic factors and any secondary illnesses. It can take up to two years for the scar to heal completely. Therefore, relax and give yourself and your scar as much rest as possible.

Moisturising and gentle massage

Scar tissue is sensitive and therefore requires a lot of care. The key is to prevent the scar from drying out, as this can not only lead to feelings of tension and redness, but in the worst case can also lead to growths. You can also use a vitamin C serum: This inhibits melanin formation and at the same time promotes skin regeneration and collagen formation, which is a perfect addition to scar care. You can also have a positive effect on healing with a gentle scar pressure massage. However, it is essential that you are instructed in the correct technique. If possible, you should also avoid direct sunlight for up to a year after the scar has formed. A high level of sun protection with SPF 50 is also important afterwards to prevent dark discolouration in the long term. Ideally, you should also apply sun cream to the rest of your skin every day – even when it is cloudy. Your skin will thank you in the long term.

Additional factors for a sucessful healing

A balanced diet with sufficient vitamins and proteins, plenty of fluids, no nicotine and no alcohol: what helps our health in everyday life also helps with scar care. A healthy lifestyle promotes collagen formation and moisturises your skin, which is not only good for your scar. In the first few weeks after the operation or accident, refrain from wearing clothes that are too tight or rubbing, excessive exercise or lifting heavy loads, as this puts unnecessary pressure on the wound and could stretch the scar tissue or, in the worst case, tear it open again. But be careful: this does not mean that you should not move at all. Movement is crucial for the healing process as it stimulates blood circulation and reduces the risk of thrombosis.

Covering up scars

Scars are part of life. Nevertheless, sometimes we just want to hide them. Please note that you should only apply make-up once the scar is closed and no more fluid is leaking out. Use a rich moisturising cream as a foundation and, if necessary, baby powder, which is gentle and anti-inflammatory. It is best to cover the scar with a high-coverage make-up (camouflage) of your choice. If the scar is still visible, you can add zinc oxide to the cream. This makes it more opaque. Set with a powder of your choice or baby powder again.