Scar Care: Evidence-Backed Strategies for Optimal Healing

Scars are a natural part of the healing process after an injury or surgery, but the way you care for them can greatly impact their appearance and overall healing. With evidence-based approaches derived from reputable medical websites and journal articles, we provide you with the most accurate information and effective strategies to optimise scar care.

1. Cleanliness and Wound Care:

Keeping the wound clean is crucial for preventing infection and promoting proper healing. it is vital that you take it easy for the week after your operation, and avoiding any bending over or stooping that would increase the venous pressure and may encourage bleeding.  Avoid using harsh cleansers or scrubbing the wound vigorously, as this can cause further damage and delay healing. 

2. Steristrips 

Steristrips may be utilised, and where these need to be replaced this will be explained and demonstrated. The balance between supporting superficial tissues, providing an element of wound protection and cosmetic covering must be balanced with maintaining a moist milieu, applying topical treatments, and allowing the wound the chance to mature through the natural wound healing physiological stages.

3. Moisturisation and Hydration:

Applying a moisturiser to the healing wound can help keep the skin hydrated and promote optimal healing conditions. Using a silicone-based or petrolatum-based ointment can help reduce scar formation and improve scar appearance. Apply a thin layer of the moisturiser to the scar area twice a day, gently massaging it into the skin. In addition to silicone creams, another beneficial option is hyaluronic acid serum. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the body that holds moisture and aids in tissue repair. Studies suggests that applying hyaluronic acid serum to scars can improve their appearance and texture, promoting smoother and more hydrated skin.

4. Sun Protection:

Protecting your scar from the sun's harmful UV rays is essential for preventing hyperpigmentation and minimizing scar discoloration. A broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher should be applied generously to the scar area. Cover the scar with clothing or use a physical barrier like a hat or scarf when exposed to direct sunlight. It is important to check for 4 or 5 star UVA protection, as well as high level UVB.

5. Scar Massage:

Gentle scar massage can help break down scar tissue and improve its flexibility and appearance. Massaging the scar with a mild pressure technique can reduce scar thickness and improve scar pliability. Initially simple linear massage, increased to rotational and finally increase the pressure through the tissues in due course.

6. Consultation with a Healthcare Professional:

For more severe scars or if you have concerns about your scar's healing process, it is essential to seek advice from a healthcare professional specialising in facial surgery. They can provide personalised recommendations based on your specific scar characteristics and offer interventions such as laser therapy, corticosteroid injections, or surgical scar revision if necessary. 

7. Anti wrinkle injections, subcision and microfat transfer

Sometimes anti wrinkle / muscle relaxing injections  may be utilised where scars lie in unfavourable vectors that cannot be changed with Z-plasty or broken down by geometric closure. Alternatively, submission combined with micro fat transfer can provide a both volumetric correction contracture release and rejuvenation of the overlying skin that is almost unparalleled with other treatments.

By following these evidence-based strategies, you can give your scar the best chance of healing optimally and achieving a more aesthetically pleasing appearance. However, individual responses to scar care may vary, and it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional for personalised advice and treatment options.