Scars are part of healing, but you don't have to live with one you hate. Some simple steps in the first weeks make a huge difference. Start by keeping the wound clean, avoid picking scabs, and protect the area from sun—UV darkens scars and makes them stick around.
Most scars keep changing for 6–12 months. Early gentle care plus proven at-home methods often improves how they look before you try anything stronger.
Silicone gel or sheets are the best studied over-the-counter option. Use them daily for 8–12 weeks on new or raised scars — they hydrate and reduce redness and height. Apply silicone for at least 12 hours a day when possible.
Scar massage helps flatten and soften tissue. After the wound is closed, massage the area with a small amount of oil or cream for 5–10 minutes, 2–3 times a day. Press firmly but not painfully and move in circles. This improves blood flow and breaks up tight fibers.
Sunscreen is cheap and powerful. Use SPF 30+ every day on scars for the first year. Even healed scars can darken fast in the sun.
Topical products: vitamin C serums can fade dark spots and help collagen. Retinoids speed skin turnover and improve texture, but they can be irritating—start slow and talk to your dermatologist. Onion-extract gels (like some commercial creams) have mixed results but may help some people.
If at-home care doesn't cut it, clinics have targeted tools. Microneedling creates tiny wounds to boost collagen and works well for depressed acne scars. Fractional lasers reduce texture issues and pulsed-dye lasers calm redness. Each laser has pros and cons, so treatment choice depends on scar type and skin tone.
Keloids and hypertrophic scars often need steroid injections to reduce size. Severe indented scars may benefit from dermal fillers or subcision, which releases tethered tissue under the scar. Chemical peels can help shallow scars and pigmentation but require downtime.
Expect multiple sessions for medical treatments and a few months to see the full effect. Combine methods—laser plus microneedling or silicone after procedures—often gives better results.
Quick checklist: protect from sun, use silicone sheets, start massage once healed, try vitamin C/retinoid carefully, and see a dermatologist for persistent or raised scars. If a scar is painful, growing, infected, or causing movement problems, book a medical review sooner.
Want a plan for a specific scar? Describe its type, how old it is, and your skin tone—then you can get tailored advice that actually helps.
Costs and safety: home options like silicone sheets and sunscreen cost little and are safe for most people. Clinic treatments vary widely—microneedling or peels might cost a few hundred per session, lasers can be pricier. Ask clinics about expected sessions, downtime, and before/after photos. Always mention any history of keloids, skin disorders, or recent isotretinoin use — these change safe timing for procedures.
A dermatologist can make the best plan today too.
In my recent post, I shared some practical tips on how to prevent scarring after surgery or injury. It's crucial to keep the wound clean and moisturized, while also protecting it from sun damage. I also discussed the role of a balanced diet, which can significantly aid in faster healing. Lastly, I mentioned the use of over-the-counter creams and silicone sheets which can help to reduce the appearance of scars. Remember, consistent care and patience are key in achieving the best results.