How to Avoid Scarring From Shingles

Shingles is a reoccurrence of the chickenpox virus, marked by painful blisters that eventually crust over and heal on their own. There are several steps to take to avoid scarring from shingles; the most important factor is immediate treatment. Research has shown that beginning drug therapy within one or two days of onset greatly reduces the chance of scarring or complications.

Things You'll Need

• Anti-viral drugs, prescribed by your doctor
• Topical treatments to treat itching
• Anti-inflammatory drugs
• Colloidal oatmeal or colloidal oatmeal powder

Instructions

Avoid Scarring

1. Talk to your doctor about taking an anti-viral drug, which can help stop progression of the rash if administered early enough.

2. Avoid scratching or bursting the blisters.

3. Apply benzoin, a topical disinfectant, to unbroken blisters to offer protection against scarring. You may also use vitamin E oil or aloe vera gel.

4. Take anti-inflammatory drugs to help with pain and itching.

5. Take a warm bath with colloidal oatmeal, or sprinkle colloidal oatmeal powder on the areas where clothes may rub against the shingles.

References

• Understanding shingles treatment
• Shingles: Will it leave scars?

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish