Learn about scars
Scars tell a story about our journeys through life, from scrapes in the back garden to major surgery, they conjure memories, good and bad. At Bepanthen we understand that many people find their scars unsightly or emotionally uncomfortable, which is why we’ve put years of scientific research into scar treatment.
The wound healing process
Immediately after an injury, a complex healing process begins, with overlapping phases
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The inflammatory phase
The bleeding stops and an inflammatory reaction starts to remove cellular debris, microbes and protect from external aggressions. During this phase, which lasts one to three days, it is advisable to use an antiseptic product to help protect from infection. - The repair phase
In the tissue surrounding the injury, collagen is created in order to help reconstruct the skin and fill the hole left by the wound. During this phase, which lasts three to 15 days, a wound healing cream is recommended. - The remodelling phase
During this phase, collagen is re-organised in order to strengthen the skin at the wound. This phase can last up to two years, and determines the final appearance of the scar. It’s advisable to use a silicone gel such as Bepanthen ® Scar Treatment after the wound has closed to help keep the skin moisturised, as dry skin can make the scar more noticeable.
Factors which make scars more prominent
The appearance of the resulting scar is influenced by different factors. Those which make scars more noticeable include:
- Dry skin
- Infection and inflammation during the early stages of the wound healing
- Intensive exposure to sunlight
- Friction from jewellery or clothing
- Intense pressure or stretching, which can change the grain pattern of the injured skin
- General dehydration
- Collagen overproduction
- Genetic predisposition to scarring
- If the scar is located in areas of natural tension, i.e. the joints, back, earlobes, neck or sternum
Click here to learn more about treating your scars with Bepanthen Scar Treatment
