A scar, now what?

After damage to the skin, a scar can appear. A scar is connective tissue that replaces normal skin as a wound heals.

The wound healing process proceeds in three phases that overlap in time.
These are: 1. Hemostasis and local cleansing (inflammation) phase. 2. Proliferation (cell division) and granulation and 3. Remodeling of scar tissue. The last phase takes the longest: sometimes up to a year and a half.

How long this healing process takes and how well a wound heals depends on various factors. Where the wound is located, its origin, size, depth and shape play a role in this. The age and condition of the person also play a role. In addition, the use of drugs such as blood thinners, immunosuppressants can slow down wound healing.

A scar can have different appearances. Usually, after the healing process, a scar looks flat and inconspicuous. Sometimes a scar is accompanied by a dent, a dimple in the skin. This is called an atrophic scar. However, a disturbance in the wound healing process can sometimes also leave a raised scar. This is called a hypertrophic scar.

Scars cosmetically be disturbing, but can also cause pain, itching, and irritation. There are home products on the market that claim to (visibly) reduce scars and complaints.

But which home products are actually proven effective and when do you start using them?

Scar creams

Much research has been done into the effect of scar creams. Plant extracts such as onion extract, green tea, aloe vera, vitamin E and vitamin D are well-known researched ingredients for scar treatment. Evidence that these have an effect, however, is lacking. You will regularly discover vitamin E in the ingredient list of scar cream.

Adverse side effects are even described about vitamin E, such as the development of contact dermatitis and worsening of itching and skin rashes. Is the application of a scar cream of no use at all? Massaging the scar, with any creams or oils. The skin is kept supple by massaging with a cream, the scar can indeed become less noticeable. This massage does not have to be with a “special” scar cream and you can start with this carefully as soon as the wound is closed.

Silicone products

There are several products available for silicone scars. These are also called silicone patches or silicone sheets. Silicone plasters have been shown to be effective in improving scars by covering the scar skin and preventing moisture loss. In addition, they also ensure that pain, itching and irritation are reduced. Silicone products can also be started as soon as the wound is closed.

Which cosmetic ingredients can you use?

Fortunately, there are also cosmetic ingredients that can improve the texture and appearance of scars:

Allium Cepa (Onion Extract):

• Effectiveness: Research shows that onion extract can reduce the appearance of scars.
• Effect: It has anti-inflammatory properties and regulates collagen, which helps soften scars.

Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid):

• Effectiveness: Vitamin C stimulates collagen production.
• Effect: Repairs damaged tissue and reduces pigmentation, causing scars to fade.

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3):

• Effectiveness: Niacinamide has anti-inflammatory effects and restores the skin barrier.
• Effect: Reduces redness and improves elasticity around scars.

Peptides:

• Effectiveness: Peptides stimulate repair and renewal of the skin.
• Effect: Promote collagen production and improve skin structure for softer scars.

Hyaluronic acid:

• Effectiveness: Hydrates and accelerates healing.
• Effect: Keeps the skin hydrated and healthy, which is essential for scar reduction.

Aloë Vera:

• Effectiveness: Aloe vera is known for its healing and soothing properties.
• Effect: Hydrates and reduces inflammation, which promotes healing.

Retinol:

• Effectiveness: Retinol stimulates cell renewal and increases collagen production.
• Effect: Fades scars by improving skin texture.
• Use: Apply gently at night; use sunscreen during the day.

Bakuchiol:

• Effectiveness: Bakuchiol is a plant-based alternative to retinol with similar effects.
• Effect: Stimulates collagen production and improves skin structure without irritation.

So, what can you do at home?

In short: massaging a scar makes sense, and this does not necessarily have to be done with a scar cream. Try to protect the scar well against sunlight with at least SPF-30 to prevent discoloration or irritation. In addition, use silicone plasters to help the scar settle faster when it appears to be thickened and red. As long as the scar is still developing, often a year to a year and a half, the use of silicone products or massaging with creams is useful.

Photo from a customer

A customer submitted photos of her caesarean section scar, on which she applied our Sensitive Cream twice a day for four weeks. What she particularly noticed was that the scar felt smoother and was less colored. The explanation for this lies in the active ingredient of our Sensitive Cream: avena sativa, also known as oat extract.

This ingredient is known for its soothing and skin-improving properties. Although there are no specific studies showing the direct effect of topical avena sativa on scar improvement, the overall soothing effect of oats may contribute to better skin condition and possibly improve the appearance of scars.

Courtesy of

Helen de Groot – skintherapist, graduated july 2022

While you are here

Minimally invasive cosmetic treatments are increasing every year. Nowadays it is more and more accepted. When you think of cosmetic procedures, you quickly think of injectables such as botulinum toxin, fillers, but also peels and various laser treatments to look less tired and make the skin more radiant. But cosmetic treatments of disturbing birthmarks, acne scars, rosacea telangiectasia, thickened scars, alopecia, excess hair, cellulite, stubborn and diet-resistant belly fat, wine stain, excessive sweating, HIV lipodystrophy in the face and tattoo are also included. More on: Cosmetic treatments – what are the reasons to do it?