While Vaseline can help with moisture retention, it does not offer the same level of scar improvement as silicone gel. For those serious about scar management, silicone gel is the way to go.
Cocoa butter cream and Vaseline are most often used to help reduce the appearance of scars. Applying the ointment daily will help heal scars but will not make them invisible. Another tip for caring for your scars includes surgery. Surgery will not eliminate the scar but can change its shape or make it less noticeable.
Use silicone products
Silicone products, such as silicone sheets and gels, can keep your scar moisturized and help it heal. You can use them under your makeup and clothing.
Following Mohs surgery, it is highly recommended that you use a thin film of Vaseline on the wound site 3-4 times daily for up to three weeks. This not only helps reduce pain, but also the chances of infection and dehydration, as well as improves the rate at which your skin regenerates cells.
Best for the job: Vaseline edges out Aquaphor for wound care, since some of the ingredients in Aquaphor shouldn't be used on deep or puncture wounds. However, for minor wounds and scars, Aquaphor can also be used.
In terms of feel, Vaseline is a bit heavier and greasier, whereas Aquaphor is a bit lighter and easier to spread. Dermatologists say deciding which one to use often comes down to personal preference. One thing to keep in mind is that you'll want to use caution with these products if your skin is prone to breakouts.
By keeping the wound moist and protected from external irritants, Aquaphor provides an optimal environment for tissue regeneration and re-epithelialization. This enables the skin to heal properly with minimal scarring. Regular application helps minimize permanent marks or discoloration.
But it works. Stay away from brand name scar creams. Unless they have silicone in them, they probably don't work any better than vaseline, because anything that moisturizes a scar is likely going to improve the scar's appearance.
For best results, you should perform scar massage for at least 10 minutes, twice a day, for six months. You should only stop sooner than that if the scar starts showing signs of infection or you experience intolerable discomfort.
Remember to cleanse your wound daily with gentle soap and water, apply petroleum jelly and cover it with an adhesive bandage for faster healing, Etemad says, adding, "And if you have any questions or are unsure about your wound, come visit us at our Tustin office."
Application of a triple antibiotic ointment (such as over-the-counter Bacitracin, Neosporin or Polysporin) three times a day to the wound for a full three weeks helps prevent infection and creates a better foundation for improved long-term scar appearance.
Avoid using hydrogen peroxide, which can be harmful to healing wounds. The presence of debris, bacteria or other impurities in open skin can trigger infection and extend the inflammation period. Fisher says prolonged inflammation enhances scar formation.
Reach for your favourite Vaseline Clinical Care cream or lotion and moisturise the skin around the scar. Try to do this twice a day. The skin around your scar may be sensitive, so choose a fragrance-free product like the Vaseline® Clinical Care Advanced Repair Unfragranced Body Lotion.
Certain all-natural ingredients like coconut oil or olive oil are considered comedogenic (pore-blocking)16, and might not be appropriate for many types of skin, including sensitive skin. For more sensitive areas, opt for moisturizing agents that are non-comedogenic, like Vaseline® Jelly.
Some people use certain essential oils — such as Helichrysum, lavender, or tea tree oils — on the skin to promote wound healing and reduce the appearance of scars.
Immediately following wound healing, a scar is usually red in appearance and is referred to as an 'immature' scar. Between 3 months and 2 years the scar should become paler, flatter and softer and can then be referred to as a 'mature' scar.
Using petroleum jelly for scars may be beneficial during and after the healing process. Vaseline® Jelly is known for protecting minor cuts and burns. It creates a protective barrier on the skin's surface to lock in moisture to help protect skin while it heals.
You would see more benefit from applying lotion or Vaseline to a scar – three times per day for 8 weeks – than you would following the same regimen with Mederma.
DO NOT EVER PICK OFF A SCAB. This will cause a scar by further traumatizing the fragile wound. 1. Continue applying Vaseline or Aquaphor for 2-3 weeks after suture removal.
The first in a medication called Kenalog, which is injected by a board certified dermatologist. This helps to flatten out the scar. You can also use silicone dressing to help with scaring. The silicone puts pressure on the scar as it is healing, making it hard for excessive collagen to form.