Scar Care Advice

If the scar has specific elements that are, for example, uneven, puckered, ridged, or with unsightly ‘cross-hatching’ left by the original sutures, then with scar care and meticulous technique, the scar should be able to be re-repaired and the appearance improved.

General Scar Care

Moisturising and Massage

• The scar should be moisturised with a bland moisturiser such as E45, Vitamin E cream, Aloe Vera gel or Nivea cream.
• It is recommended that the scar is moisturised and massaged twice daily.
• The scar should be massaged gently at first, this can then be built up to a firm massage.

Sun Exposure

• Scars can become red when exposed to the sun even in this country.
• It is recommended that total sunblock be used over the scar for at least the first year after surgery/injury.
• Alternatively, keep the scar out of the sun with clothing.

Silicone Gel Sheets and Gel (Mepiform, Cica-care, DermatixTM , KelocoteTM)

• Flatten, soften and fade red and raised scars.
• Work by moisturising and covering the scar.
• Can be used preventatively, i.e. before the scar becomes red, raised or itchy.
• Silicone gel sheet or gel treatment should be commenced once the suture line is closed and free from scabs.
• Treatment should continue for at least two months.

Mepiform, DermatixTM and Kelocote TM can be purchased from any pharmacy, however they may need to order in the product.

Mepiform

• Should be worn for a minimum of 12 hours daily, but preferably 24 hours a day.
• Mepiform should be removed at least once a day, the scar and surrounding area should be washed, dried and massaged with a moisturising cream.
• Allow the massage cream/oil to absorb into the skin before reapplying the Mepiform.
• The same piece of Mepiform can be reapplied.
• Discard the Mepiform once it has lost its adherent properties and apply a new piece.

DermatixTM or KelocoteTM

• Is a topical silicone gel and should be used twice a day.
• Gently clean the area to be treated with mild soap and water, pat dry.
• Massage the scar as outlined above and allow cream/oil to soak in and dry.
• Gently spread a very thin coating of DermatixTM/KelocoteTM over the scar.
• Allow to dry for 4 to 5 minutes before covering with clothing or make-up. If DematixTM/KelocoteTM has not dried within 4 to 5 minutes you have used too much: remove excess and allow the drying process to continue.
• The recommended minimum duration of treatment is two months.

 
For more information on Scar Care or to book a consultation, call 01223 214 960, or contact our team.