Scar care

Scars are a natural part of the skin’s healing process.

Sometimes when a scar forms it can become hard, red, raised and thick. It may adhere (stick) to the underlying tissues and be itchy or sensitive to touch or pressure. Scars which are close to a joint may limit movement at the joint and therefore restrict movement.

Everyone’s skin is different and some people are more prone to problems with their scars than others. These massage techniques can help to soften the scar tissue and make it flatter, paler, cooler and smoother.

Massage can start once all stitches are removed and the wound is healed.

Use an unperfumed moisturising cream or lotion (e.g. Dermol 500 etc). Massage the scar and any tight areas near to it for 5-10 minutes. For best results do this 2-3 times per day. It can take several months to achieve a flat, moveable scar. A scar can take 18 months to fully mature.

• Start with small circles along the length of the scar either with your thumb or first two fingers. Use firm even pressure.
• Next work horizontally across the scar to and fro in small movements
• Then work vertically along the length of the scar
• If someone else is helping with the scar massage for steps two and three they can use both hands to work in opposite directions