Template only — not medical advice. Always review with a licensed healthcare professional before distributing.
Want to customize this handout for your clinic?
Sign in free to edit, add your clinic branding, and save your own version.
Raised Scar Mark: Wellness Guide and Healthy Habits
Summary
Raised scars, also known as hypertrophic scars, are a common skin condition that can develop after an injury or surgery. While these scars can be noticeable, there are ways to manage them and improve their appearance. This guide will help you understand how to care for raised scars and adopt healthy habits to support your skin's healing process.
What Is This & Why It Matters
Raised scars occur when the skin heals after an injury, resulting in a thickened area of scar tissue. This happens because the body produces too much collagen during the healing process. While raised scars are not harmful, they can be bothersome or itchy. Adopting healthy lifestyle habits can promote better healing and reduce the appearance of these scars over time.
What You Should Do
- Get at least 8 hours of sleep each night to support your body's natural healing processes.
- Engage in 150 minutes of moderate physical activity each week to boost overall health and skin healing.
- Follow a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to provide your body with essential nutrients.
- Keep the scar area moisturized using recommended creams or oils to maintain skin hydration.
- Protect your scar from the sun by applying sunscreen or wearing protective clothing when outdoors.
- Gently massage the scar with circular motions to help break down excess tissue and improve its appearance.
- Schedule follow-up appointments every four weeks with your dermatologist to monitor progress.
What You Should NOT Do
- Avoid picking or scratching the scar as this can worsen its appearance.
- Do not apply harsh chemicals or homemade remedies without consulting a healthcare professional.
- Refrain from exposing the scar to excessive sunlight without protection, as UV rays can darken it.
- Steer clear of tight clothing that may rub against the scar and cause irritation.
- Avoid smoking, as it can impair healing and worsen scar formation.
Symptoms: Normal vs Warning Signs
Normal (Don't Worry)
- The scar may feel firm or hard to the touch.
- You might experience mild itching around the scar area.
- The color of the scar may be slightly pink or red initially.
- The scar may be slightly raised above the surrounding skin.
Call Your Doctor If...
- If the scar becomes painful or tender, seek medical advice.
- Noticeable swelling or redness spreading beyond the scar could indicate an infection.
- Bleeding or pus discharge from the scar requires immediate attention.
- If you notice significant changes in color or size quickly, consult your doctor.
FAQ
What is a raised scar?
A raised scar is an area of thickened skin that forms after an injury due to excess collagen production during healing.
Can raised scars go away on their own?
While they may fade over time, some raised scars might not completely disappear without treatment.
How long does it take for a raised scar to heal?
Healing varies per individual but adopting healthy habits can improve outcomes over months.
Are there treatments available for raised scars?
Yes, treatments such as silicone gel sheets, laser therapy, and steroid injections may be recommended by a dermatologist.
Will exercise help my raised scar heal?
Regular exercise promotes overall health and improves circulation, which can support better skin healing.