Scarring: how to stop marks from sticking around

Worried a new cut or acne mark will leave a scar? Good news: most scars either fade a lot on their own or respond to simple care. This page gives clear, practical steps you can use now — from basic wound care to when you should see a specialist. If you have diabetes, slow healing changes what you should do, so there’s a few extra tips for you too.

Prevent scars with smart wound care

Clean the wound gently with mild soap and water. Don’t use harsh disinfectants routinely — they can slow healing. Keep the area moist: a thin layer of petroleum jelly and a non-stick dressing prevents scab overgrowth and reduces scarring. Change the dressing daily and avoid picking at scabs. If a wound is deep, gaping, or on your face, see a doctor about stitches — closing the wound properly cuts scar size a lot.

Sunscreen matters. Any healing skin is extra sensitive to sunlight and will darken easily. Use SPF 30+ on healed or partially healed wounds for at least six months to prevent permanent dark scars.

If you have diabetes, control your blood sugar and check wounds often. High blood sugar makes infections and poor healing more likely, which means bigger scars. Ask your provider for wound care advice and quicker follow-ups.

Treating scars: options that actually work

Start with silicone. Medical silicone sheets or gels are proven to soften and flatten many scars when used daily for several weeks to months. They’re easy to use and safe for most people. Scar massage also helps — press and rub the scar gently for five to ten minutes a day once the skin is closed. Massage improves tissue flexibility and blood flow.

Topical products can help with color and texture. Vitamin C serums, niacinamide, and products with proven ingredients can brighten and support collagen balance. Be realistic: over-the-counter creams help mild scars but won’t erase deep or old scars.

For raised scars (hypertrophic) and keloids, steroid injections or pressure therapy often reduce size and itching. Procedures like microneedling, fractional laser, or surgical revision can improve deeper or old scars — but they need a trained clinician and sometimes several sessions.

Avoid unproven home remedies that promise instant results. Some can irritate skin and make scars worse. If you’re trying a herbal or new product, test it on a small area first and stop if you get redness or burning.

When to see a doctor: if the wound shows spreading redness, heat, pus, or pain; if a scar grows beyond the wound edges (possible keloid); if a scar limits movement; or if you’re unsure about stitches or infection. Quick action can prevent bigger problems later.

Scars are normal, but you can control a lot of how they look. Start with clean, moist wound care, protect from sun, and use silicone or see a professional for tougher cases. And if you have diabetes, don’t wait — ask for early medical advice to avoid poor healing and bigger scars.