What Should I Do to Prevent Scarring from a Facial Scratch?

Question

I went hiking and got scratched on my cheek, near my nose. What should I do or use to prevent scarring? It has scabbed over. It's about 0.4 or 0.5 mm wide, about 1.5 inches long.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our treatments use combination therapy to improve the epidermis and dermis for most deep scars. The options available for acne scars depend on the character of your scars, in terms of topography and contour. We see atrophic and hypertrophic acne scars, as well as scars that have hypo and hyperpigmentation. We begin each scar evaluation with an assessment of scar quality and subtype. 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 decide whether early subcision should be started.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Mark Hamilton, MD · Answer

Typically scratches to the face will not result in noticeable scarring. Nevertheless, if one is concerned about minimizing a possible scar, multiple options exist. In the short term, while a scar or laceration is still fresh, antibiotic ointment will help it heal quicker with less scabbing. Options include Bacitracin, Neosporin and Polysporin. Once a facial scratch or laceration is re-epithelialized (healed over on the surface), scar fading creams can be used. While options such as vitamin E and Mederma have received lots of attention, scar fading creams and tapes that contain silicone have the most science behind them. A regimen of using these scar fading creams or silastic tape can be started as recommended by a qualified dermatologists or plastic surgeon. Both can be found over the counter in most pharmacies.

Paul Carniol, MD · Answer

Multiple factors can contribute to developing a scar from an abrasion.

The first factor to consider is the depth of the initial injury.

if the wound extends into the deep dermis it is more likely to develop a noticeable scar.

In terms of wound care to decrease a possible scar it's probably best to have a physician review your medical history, examine the wound and recommend  a treatment regimen

Mark Taylor, MD · Answer

Keep it clean, protected from the sun and apply antibiotic ointment twice a day and make an appointment immediately with a dermatologist or plastic surgeion who specializes in scar treatment. Early treatment with lasers may be very helpful.

What Should I Do to Prevent Scarring from a Facial Scratch?

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