Small hematoma on forehead - what is the best treatment for the scar? (Photos)

Question

4 weeks ago, I suffered blunt force to my forehead on a very thin, sharp mantel. I kept the injury clean and covered. It bled for only a couple days. There is a firm, slightly raised hematoma still present, just under where the laceration was. I'm wondering when I should expect it to fully dissapear? and once it does, what would be the best treatment for the scar?

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

A small hematoma under a laceration can persist for several weeks to even 2–3 months, especially if the impact was significant. The firm, slightly raised area is likely a combination of:

Residual organized blood clot (hematoma)

Local swelling or fibrosis (scar tissue forming)

Timeline for resolution:
✅ Most small hematomas soften and reabsorb gradually over 4–8 weeks.
✅ Gentle massage and warm compresses (once the skin is fully closed) can help circulation and speed reabsorption.
✅ If it remains firm beyond 10–12 weeks, it could be a persistent fibrotic nodule, which usually still softens over time.

Once the area has fully healed and flattened, the best treatments for the scar include:

Silicone gel or silicone sheets: Apply daily to help flatten and fade redness.

Sunscreen (SPF 30–50): Essential to prevent long-lasting discoloration.

Gentle massage: Helps remodel collagen and soften the scar.

Optional later treatments (if needed): Prescription retinoids to improve texture, or laser treatments for persistent redness or thickness.

When to see a professional sooner:
If the area becomes increasingly red, swollen, painful, or drains fluid, it could indicate infection or a cyst, and should be evaluated promptly.

Otherwise, patience and consistent topical care usually yield excellent cosmetic outcomes for small forehead scars.

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

The ideal window of time for treating an imminent scar is between the end of week four after the injury  and the end of week twelve. At four weeks the wound is typically healed enough to withstand treatment and there exists the best chance for possibly erasing the potential scar.  After twelve weeks, the scar is considered "mature" and the chances for maximal improvement are much slimmer and fall into the range of a potential 60-80% overall improvement. The aforementioned applies not only to traumatic scars (as in this case), but to wounds resulting from surgery, infection (such as chickenpox) or severe acne. 
With this time frame in mind, you would be wise to consult with an experienced board certified cosmetic dermatologist scar treatment expert. Hope this helps and best of luck.

Small hematoma on forehead - what is the best treatment for the scar? (Photos)

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Small hematoma on forehead - what is the best treatment for the scar? (Photos)

Answers (2)

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Everything you need to know about Scar Removal

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.