I’m getting blisters from using Embrace scar therapy. Is there anything I can do to prevent this from happening? (Photo)

Our treatments use combination therapy to improve the epidermis and dermis. We see atrophic and hypertrophic scars, as well as scars that have hypo and hyperpigmentation. Our main concern is rebuilding collagen and that is why we use a HIDEF protocol that includes combination therapy. Morpheus 8, scar subcision, fibrous release, fractional laser, CO2 laser, Thulium laser, PDL Vbeam laser, and fractional resurfacing can be used in addition to TCA Cross and chemical peels to further improve skin. Patients should start Melarase AM and Melarase PM for active hyperpigmentation. Always begin with a consultation to discuss the best treatment options for your type of skin. .

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

You may be having a reaction to the adhesive. They shouldn’t be applied to open skin and continuing to use them may cause scarring.

Thanks for the question and photos. The Embrace works well during the first 6 weeks, but if you are having problems a switch to Mepitac silicone tape will work just as well now, without the risk of shearing. The use of V-Stat from Vivier Pharma is another option to limit scaring, as it stops the formation of excess collagen and softens the scar as well. Hope this helps.

I think Embrace is a great product and recommend it to all my patients after breast reductions, but I’ve had several patients have similar reactions from the strips.  I’d recommend leaving it off and have the area open to air for several days until the irritation resolves.  You can then try again, but make sure to clean the area well with something like alcohol wipes to make sure the skin is completely clean before putting on new strips.

Hope it goes well!

Anne Peled, MD