How to Care for a New Scar
Accidents happen. Unfortunately some accidents results in unsightly scars. Treating these scars promptly after the wound heals is essential for minimizing the scar. New scars, when treated properly, can fade quickly and even completely. While there is no treatment on the market that guarantees the complete disappearance of scars, there are skin care products that, when used in combination with over-the-counter scar treatments, can minimize the appearance of scars. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Exfoliate. Use a sugar or almond scrub at least every other day on the affected area. Using the scrub will get rid of dead skin and expose newer skin. Since a scar can only be so many layers of skin deep, with each exfoliation the scar will fade just a little. (Please note that the change may not be noticeable for several months.) Be sure that the wound is completely healed before exfoliating, as exfoliating a scab will actually worsen the scar.
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Moisturize daily. Skin absorbs conditioners best after a shower when your pores are open. Keeping the skin moisturized will ensure that as you scrub away dead skin, the new skin will be healthy. Moisturizers that contain lavender oil, vitamin E and/or cocoa butter may be more effective in helping fade the scar. Both lavender oil and cocoa butter have been known to soften scar tissue and help fade dark scars.
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Apply over-the-counter treatments. Several, including Mederma and Neosporin Scar solution, claim to reduce the appearance of scars. Consumer reviews on sites such as epinion.com and dermstore.com show that many consumers have had success with Mederma and Neosporin Scar Solution. Mederma requires multiple applications a day for several months. If your scar is in an obvious location that makes you self-conscious, one of these over-the-counter treatments is probably worth a try.
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Tips & Warnings
Preventing scaring is much more effective than having to treat a scar after the fact. Use a triple antibiotic ointment, such as Neosporin, on wounds and cover with a bandage. Be sure to keep the wound clean (you can use a saline wound wash to do this) and replace the bandage regularly to avoid infection.
It's always wise to consult a health care professional before treating yourself for any condition. Work with your dermatologist to find a treatment for scars that works best for you.
References
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Comments
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popolklkp
Feb 08, 2010
I used Neosporin scar solution in the past, however when I found it was no longer being made, I was directed to the Dr Max Powers Scar Serum. It is an improved version of the prior product as it sticks better and takes away the scar very well. Since I work with parrots, I get bitten every so often and this product is great in promoting healing (once the skin edges have healed), preventing keloid formation or any scarring. I have been so glad another product replaced the original one I had been using. And one that is better at that!
