Sun protection for scars? (Photo)

Question

I had a tummy tuck and breast augmentation approximately eight weeks ago. I will soon be traveling, and being in the sun is pretty much unavoidable. If I use Mepitac silicone tape and Bicorneum underneath it, over my scars is that enough sun protection? I want to make sure not to hyper pigment them!

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  I would use a multi-faceted approach to scar protection. Darker clothing that covers your incisions is one of the best options, but since this will be difficult during your travels, I recommend  a sunblock with either titanium or zinc to prevent abnormal pigmentation of the incision, and to protect the skin that was operated upon to prevent burning.  Patients can also wear a mechanical barrier instead of the sunblock, such as a tape, bandaid, and silicone sheeting. Hope that this helps.

George Volpe, MD · Answer

Is always wise to protect scars from the sun when scars are young, that is less than one years old. Especially in those who tan easily, scars have a tendency to hyper- pigment.  Scar tape can help protect. Bathing suits may cover the scar can sometimes allow enough sunlight in to cause hyperpigmentation. A good mechanical type of sunblock within SPF reading in the 50 to 60 range also hopes. Remember if you are in the water to reapply sunblock afterwards.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

Any scar that is actively remodeling should be totally shielded from the sun. Sunblock is inadequate at this point in time.

Ken Smart, MD · Answer

What you are planning on using is adequate.  As long a you use a broad spectrum sun block with at least SPF 30 and keep the scars covered you should be fine.  For scars that may not be covered completely, such as umbilical scars, be sure to re-apply sunscreen and limit the amount of direct sunlight.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Sun protection is important especially for new scars as they can hyperpigment.  It's best to avoid the sun but if you cannot be sure to stay in the shade as much as possible.  Keep incisions covered and use sun protective clothing.

Jay H. Ross, MD, FACS · Answer

It seems like you are doing all that one can do to help prevent hypertrophic and pigmented scars. The only other thing is to stay out of the sun completely.  That is just not practical.  Good Luck.

Jeffrey Nelson, MD · Answer

Protecting from the sun with spf is always a good idea.  Especially with new scars which can be prone to pigmentation issues.  Clothing over the scars is best but if the skin will be exposed to the sun, limit the exposure & use a good spf that contains zinc and or titanium dioxide.  These ingredients act as physical blockers and can protect the skin better than most standard sunscreens.  Use umbrellas and or beach towels to help cover up if you'll be at the beach.

Remus Repta, MD · Answer

Great question.  I would imagine that both your breast and tummy tuck scars would be covered by clothing.  If this is the case that should take care of the sun protection.  If not, you will want something opaque on the scars and sunscreen on the surround areas.  Pretty much the entire abdominal skin will be sensitive to excessive sun exposure.  Since you also likely have some temporary numbness, the chances of getting a sunburn is increased.All the best,Dr. Remus Repta

Patrick L. Basile, MD · Answer

Congrats on a nice result and also for taking care of your scars. If the scars are completely covered then you should be okay. You may want to consider a bathing suit that covers the transverse scar. Most suits today have SPF built in. Then you only have to worry about the umbilicus. Stay covered, but if you are exposed to the sun then reapply sun block after showering, swimming and every couple hours. Good luck!

Sun protection for scars? (Photo)

Answers (9)

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