Scars

Scars have more than just cosmetic implications
Often when talking about scars (especially self-harm scars) people focus on how they look, but scars can have other effects on a person’s life as well. Skin is the largest organ in the human body and scar tissue does not function like skin does, missing some of the structures normal skin has. Scars can be painful, itchy, or make it hard to move and substantial scarring can cause temperature regulation issues or be overly dry. For people with severe scarring, it can be a lifelong struggle to manage.
People with scarring also often struggle with the impact of discrimination and self-esteem issues, scars can also be a psychical reminder of difficult times. Other people take pride in their scars, and some people don’t mind them.

Scar Prevention/Minimisation

Preventing or minimising the amount of scarring left behind from self-harm can reduce the risk of other complications scars can cause. Here are some ways to prevent/minimise scarring…

  • The smaller the wound the smaller the scar
  • Proper wound care and bandaging
    • Using wound closure strips or getting stitches for cuts that need them
    • Keeping wounds moist by keeping them covered and using petroleum jelly/Vaseline/Aquaphor
  • Getting enough protein, vitamin A, vitamin C, zinc, amino acids, and calories
    • Supplements are a good option if you struggle with food
    • Collagen supplements can help as well

Treating Scars

Treating scars can make them softer (making it easier to move) and less itchy and painful, as well as less visible. Some treatments can only be used on fully healed scars (not scabs), so remember to check that first. Here are some ways you can treat you’re scars…

  • Silicone ointment or tape
  • Massaging with bio-oil, water based non-fragranced cream, emollient creams, etc.
  • Pressure dressings
  • Use sunscreen or keep scars covered when outside, scars are especially prone to sunburn
  • Talk to a doctor, some treatments for scars are only available by prescription or can only be done by a doctor

Covering Scars

Some people choose to cover their scars with clothes, makeup, or tattoos; other people don’t mind their scars and showing them.

Makeup

You can buy specially designed makeup to cover scars, such as Dermacolor, Veil, Covermark, and Keromask. You can watch a video about applying skin camouflage here.
If you live in Britain, Changing Faces offers a skin camouflage service for free where they can colour match and teach you how to use skin camouflage to cover up scars (or other visible differences).

Staying cool in the summer

If you choose to cover your scars with long sleeves, long trousers, or other clothes it can be easy to overheat in the summer. Here are some tips to for staying cool in the heat…

  • Wear loose light clothing that allow for air flow
  • Cotton, linen, silk, and other natural fabrics are more breathable than synthetic fabrics
  • Stay hydrated
  • Running cool water over your wrists can help you cool down
  • Remember that your safety is more important that covering your scars or wounds, if you feel like you’re going to overheat it is important to take of layers if you need to