Scars are the result of wounds healing on the skin. There are different types of scars and they can affect any part of the body. The healing will depend on many factors such as the type of wound, the area of the body affected or the characteristics of the person such as age and skin type.
However, there are several myths surrounding scars, which we are going to address here:
- A red scar indicates that the wound is not well healed
Scars are always reddish or pink in colour for the first few months. After a month or so, the scar enters its remodelling phase. The collagen fibres formed initially, will be reabsorbed. After a year, this process will be finished and the scar will acquire its final appearance, usually a pearly whitish colour.
- Scars can fade
Dermatological and aesthetic treatments can help reduce the size of the scars or their appearance, but they will not make them disappear completely, as the skin is not able to regenerate completely in that area after it has been damaged.
- Intake of vitamin E heals scars
Taking vitamin E supplements has not been shown to cure or fade scars. A good nutritional diet - balanced and rich in vitamins is always recommended, and will help the skin to be in better, overall condition.
- A scab is beneficial for scar development
The scab is not beneficial, in fact it is quite the opposite. The scab is made up of dead tissues and blood debris. After its removal, the skin can begin to regenerate.
- The sun is good for healing
The sun is a factor related to the aging of the skin and is not beneficial for healing either. Scars also become hyperpigmented with exposure to the sun, adopting a darker colour.
- Open scars heal better
Covering the skin around the wound during the early stages of healing, especially with a polyurethane dressing, is beneficial for healing. A microclimate is generated that helps skin regeneration.
