6 Widespread Myths on Treatment of Scars

Scars can embarrass people and make them self-conscious. Even worse, scar tissue can also cause pain, itch, and may restrict movement of joints and ligaments. Therefore it is important to treat them as well as possible.

Poor advice about scar treatment is widespread. Not only among private persons but among experts such as dermatologists as well.

Often people are adviced to use products that have no scientific evidence proving their efficacy.

This does not have to necessarily mean they don’t work but it remains a fact that even medical professionals don’t always know which treatment is best. At worst this may lead to scar tissue damage.

So in order to help you with determining the right approach for your scar here a list of 6 common scar treatment myths.

Myth 1: There Is Nothing You Can Do About Scars

Admitted, scars are permanent. But their appearance can be improved. Problematic scars such as hypertrophics and keloids can be treated and sometimes prevented, contractures can be made more supple and pliable, and the prominence of acne scars can be reduced.

Not always is it possible to use home remedies to achieve satisfying results. In many cases laser therapy, cryotherapy, dermabrasion, or even surgery are required but scars can be improved.

Especially when anticipation is possible, for example in case of surgery scars there are things that can be done. Supplements can be taken prior to surgery while optimal wound care (e.g. paper tape, compression, Medihoney dressings) can make a huge difference in scar tissue creation.

Myth 2: Vitamin E Is An Effective Treatment of Scars

This myth is very commonly accepted as being true. Ask a random person what they think will improve their scar and there’s a big chance they will mention Vitamin E.

Not only is there no scientific evidence to support this claim, vitamin E can also cause skin irritation (it did in about 30% of test persons in a study) and subsequently make scars worse. Well-educated dermatologists advice against the use of vitamin E on scars.

Myth 3: Keep Your Wound Dry and Let it Breathe

A large share of the population still thinks it is best to let your cut breathe. Studies show the opposite is true. Wounds that are kept moist and covered heal quicker. And since the healing time of a wound is directly related to the amount scar tissue formed this is something to take into account.

You should thoroughly clean the wound and apply an anti-bacterial ointment and optionally a bandage. Letting the wound breathe will cause it to dry up and scab. Scabbing is not desired since it increases your chances of scarring. Therefore, keep your cut moist and clean and when it is closed scar treatment can be started.

Myth 4: Tanning Improves The Cosmetic Appearance of Scars

This really depends on what state your scar is in. Fresh scars take up to 2 years (possibly less) to fully mature. During this phase sunshine and UV radiation from tanning beds etc. should be avoided at all costs.

Not only is there less pigment in the scar tissue which allows for them to burn more easily, UV radiation will also worsen the scar. UV may also dry out scars which is actually something to avoid because it is hydration which is known to improve them.

Make sure to apply a sunscreen of at least SPF 30 even when you are wearing thin cotton clothes because the UV rays will go through the fabric. Older white scars may benefit from tanning.

Myth 5: Onion Extract Is A Proven Effective Treatment

This is not true. There is one study conducted on rabbit ears in which onion extract (alium cepa) remodeled collagen structure in scars. But in human studies there was no proof found it helps reduce scars. A well known brand name of a cream containing onion extract is Mederma. Read more about onion extract for scars.

Myth 6: Cococa Butter Is a Sustainable Scar Improving Agent

Although cocoa butter contains high levels of phenolic compounds, which can reduce skin inflammation it does not improve appearance of skin in general and scars in particular. This was concluded by a study published in the “Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture”.

Cocoa butter, among some other popular topicals may moisturize your scar making it softer and noticeable for a while, but the results are only temporary. For red raised (hypertrophic) scars there are much better alternatives.