(This is not me. Thanks.)
1…Massage it when it’s new, according to Dr. Zoe Draelos, M.D., renowned North Carolina-based dermatologist. Draelos tells Self, “When a wound is pinkish in color as it heals, you can minimize the chances of a scar by gently massaging it…the stimulation helps align the collagen underneath the blemish for a less noticeable mark.” Who knew?
2. Consider silicone gel sheeting. According to a 2007 review in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal, silicone gel sheeting is the only form of treatment effective against hypertrophic (raised) scars. The study considered popular treatments like Mederma, adhesive tape, and polyurethane, and concluded that only silicone gel sheeting has conclusive evidence for being effective in the treatment of raised scars. Who knew?
3. Avoid vitamin E. It is well-known that vitamin E thins the blood, aiding in circulation. Unfortunately, this property of vitamin E may interfere with healing. According to a 2007 story in The New York Times, vitamin E was found not to have any healing properties by researchers at the University of Miami. In fact, in some cases, vitamin E induced contact dermatitis in patients, making matters worse. (In other words, stick with an aloe cream, gentle massage, and silicone gel sheeting.)
4. Choose the right concealer color. According to Dr. David E. Bank’s Beautiful Skin, if the scar is blue/purple, use a mauve color concealer to prime the area, and then follow with concealer or foundation. If the scar is the same color as your skin, take caution to use a concealer and foundation exactly the color of your skin. According to Dr. Bank, “Anything lighter will highlight the imperfection.” Makes sense, now that you mention it…
5. Consider the pulsed dye laser (administered by a licensed dermatologist). According to Dr. David E. Bank’s Beautiful Skin, treatment with the pulsed dye laser is efficient, and can reduce the appearance of raised scars and stretch marks, although it is most effective when the area is still pink.
Overall, take care of your scars when they are new, and your investment of time and effort will pay off for years to come. 🙂 Of course, it’s never to late to start, so be sure to start with gentle massage, aloe cream, silicone gel sheeting, and consulting with a dermatologist about probable laser treatments. 🙂