Prevent Scars from Forming & Diminish Ones that Already Exist

If you've recently injured yourself with a scrape, or cut, or if you're healing from surgery, you may be worried about a scar forming.

This can be especially concerning if it's on a noticeable part of your body. Depending on where it is, a scar can make you feel embarrassed and self-conscious.

What exactly is a scar, and why does it appear?

A scar is a "mark" on your skin made of fibrous tissue that forms after an injury or wound has healed on your body.

Are there ways to prevent a scar from surfacing?

Associate clinical professor of dermatology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City, Dr. Ellen Marmur, suggests gently washing your injury site with mild soap and water to remove any remains and to keep bacteria out. You might want to consider applying petroleum jelly to keep your wound from forming a scab. Next, Dr. Murmur suggests covering the wound with a bandage and to continue cleaning it while it heals.

Is there anything you can do to reduce the evidence of a scar if you already have one?

Listen in as Dr. Marmur shares how to prevent scars from healing and what to do if one already exists.