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best ointment for scars
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Skin & Hair Concerns
Question #16527
2 days ago
21

best ointment for scars - #16527

Divya

I am really struggling with this scar on my arm and I'm hoping to find the best ointment for scars. A few months ago, I was cooking and accidentally burned myself pretty badly. It was awful and left this dark scar that's just not fading at all! I've tried a couple of over-the-counter creams, but honestly, they don't seem to do much. I’m not sure if it's just my skin or what but this scar is super stubborn! I've read that some ointments can actually help with scar healing, like with reducing redness and improving texture, but it's hard to know what really works. Do any of you know what is the best ointment for scars, like something that’s actually clinically proven or has good reviews? I would really like to avoid anything that could make it worse or irritate my skin. Also, do scars ever really go away completely? I’m worried this mark is gonna be a part of me forever! Ugh, it’s frustrating! If anyone has personal experiences or recommendations for the best ointment for scars, I would really appreciate it! Thanks a lot!

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Doctors’ responses

When it comes to treating scars, especially ones that develop after burns, it’s important to use treatments that are backed by clinical evidence for effectiveness. One well-known option is silicone-based products, such as silicone sheets or gels. Silicone has been shown to help soften and flatten scars, reduce redness, and sometimes even improve texture over time. These products generally have a good track record in terms of user satisfaction and minimal side effects. They’re often a good first-line therapy for scar management. Another option to consider is onion extract-based gels like Mederma, which some users find helpful in improving scar appearance although evidence might vary in terms of how effectively they work. Applying these treatments consistently, usually twice daily, is key as scar improvement often takes several weeks to a few months of continued application before noticeable changes occur. Scars indeed can be stubborn and while they may never disappear completely, appropriate treatment can significantly reduce their appearance over time. Besides topicals, protecting the scar area from sun exposure by using sunscreen can also prevent further darkening and help in fading. For particularly challenging scars, consulting a dermatologist might be a worthwhile step. They could provide additional insights or interventions, such as laser therapy or steroid injections, if deemed necessary. It’s crucial not to pick at or irritate the scarred area, as that can exacerbate the condition. Also, bear in mind that patience plays a big role with scar treatments – they won’t vanish overnight but with diligent care, significant improvement is possible. If any ointment or gel causes irritation, stop using it immediately and consider seeing a healthcare professional for further assessment.

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