cream to reduce burn marks - #14692
I am looking for some advice about a cream to reduce burn marks. A few months ago, I accidentally spilled hot coffee on my arm while rushing to get ready for work. The burn wasn’t super serious but wow, it left a pretty unsightly mark that I feel self-conscious about. I’ve tried aloe vera for a while, but it doesn’t seem to be doing much. I heard about a cream to reduce burn marks from a coworker, like something with silicone? I kinda forgot the exact name but she said it worked wonders for her. I feel like I need something stronger, but then again, I’m worried about using harsh products on my skin too. My burn mark is kinda reddish and has this dry patchy look to it, plus it gets itchy sometimes. I just want to know if there really is a good cream to reduce burn marks or if there’s other stuff I should be looking into? Should I try something more natural, or just go for this cream a friend mentioned? Ugh, I wish I would’ve paid more attention when I was small and my mom taught me about caring for skin! Anyway, any suggestions or experiences with a cream to reduce burn marks would be super appreciated. Thanks!
100% Anonymously
No sign-up needed.

Doctors’ responses
When it comes to reducing burn marks, particularly those that linger after the initial healing of a burn, silicone-based creams or gels can indeed be quite effective. Silicone has been shown to help improve the appearance of scars by hydrating them, which helps in flattening and softening the scar tissue over time. Products like silicone sheets or silicone gels are widely recommended among dermatologists for scar management. You can find products like Mederma or ScarAway that are quite popular and easily available over-the-counter. Applying such products as directed, usually a couple of times a day, can catalyze the fading process over several weeks to months. When using silicone-based cream, patience is key since results aren’t instant, it can take consistent use to see improvements. If you prefer something more nature-based, rosehip oil is often praised for its scar-reducing qualities, although its effectiveness compared to silicone hasn’t been as thoroughly studied. Given your concern about itchiness, keeping the area moisturized is also crucial. Moisturizers can prevent the area from becoming too dry or itchy, which is common with healing skin. Products like a fragrance-free moisturizer or a gentle emollient might help soothe irritation. However, considering you mentioned a reddish and patchy appearance, it’s also worth checking in with a dermatologist. They could provide a precise diagnosis or treatment, especially to rule out any hypertrophic scar or keloid formation. Speaking with a healthcare professional will ensure you’re using a product suitable for your skin type and specific condition. Be cautious about using harsh products, especially without professional guidance, as they can irritate the sensitive scar tissue further. For now, sticking with well-known, dermatologically-approved products would be a safe bet while you explore options suited to your skin needs.
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.
About our doctors
Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.