How to Prevent Scarring on a Deep Cut
If you've recently suffered a deep cut, you may be concerned about permanent scarring, particularly if the cut is located on a visible part of your body. Scar formation is often the result of the injured skin's attempt to repair itself by forming new collagen. If the cut is not properly cared for, it may develop an infection and take longer to heal, which increases your risk for scarring. Learn how to treat your deep cut to reduce your chance of developing an unsightly scar.
Things You'll Need
- Clean cloth
- Sterile bandage
- Alcohol-sterilized tweezers
- Antibiotic cream or ointment
Instructions
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Apply gentle pressure to the deep cut with a sterile bandage or clean cloth until the bleeding has completely stopped. Maintain the pressure for 20 to 30 minutes and try to elevate the wound, recommends the Mayo Clinic.
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Gently clean the cut with cool water. Carefully remove any splinters or other debris from the cut with alcohol-sterilized tweezers. Wash around the cut with soap and a clean cloth, but avoid getting soap directly inside the cut, since that may further irritate the wound. Don't use hydrogen peroxide on the cut, which can slow up the healing process by killing new skin cells and increasing your chance of developing a scar, recommends CBS News.
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Apply an antibiotic cream or ointment on the cut to help keep it free from dirt and dangerous bacteria, which will reduce your risk of developing a scar.
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Cover the cut with a sterile bandage. Change the bandage once each day or more frequently if it becomes dirty or wet.
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Tips & Warnings
Antibiotic creams and ointments can be purchased at your local pharmacy. If your cut is very severe or showing signs of infection, ask your doctor if you require a prescription for a stronger antibiotic treatment.
Seek immediate medical assistance if the bleeding persists. A wound that is gaping, has muscle or fat protruding, or is more than 1/4-inch deep will probably require stitches. Getting stitches within a few hours of a deep cut will reduce your risk of infection and scar formation.
Don't pick off any scabs that may form while the cut is healing. Picking off a scab may reopen the cut and allow bacteria to enter, which could develop into a scar.
