The Sun & Scars: How Does Sunlight Affect The Scar Healing Process?

The Sun & Scars: How Does Sunlight Affect The Scar Healing Process?

Have you heard the suggestion that sunlight is good for scars? This is a popular theory that we’re going to tackle today. In this blog we’re going to take a look at some scar prevention tips and answer a couple of the most common questions we hear about sunlight and scars: how long should a scar be protected from the sun and does sunlight help scars? Let’s jump right in.

What Are Scars?

A scar is a mark left on the skin after an injury or wound has healed. Scars are a natural part of the healing process, but they can be unsightly and even painful.

Scars form as a part of the body's natural healing process for larger wounds. When the skin is injured, the body sends out cells to repair the damage. These cells produce collagen, a protein that helps to rebuild the skin. However, if the injury is severe or the body's healing process is disrupted, extra collagen can be produced, leading to a scar.

Does Sunlight Help Scars?

Contrary to popular suggestions, exposure to sunlight’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can make scars worse by damaging the skin and causing them to darken, thicken, and become more noticeable. However, there are a number of things you can do to protect your scars from the sun and help them heal properly.

How Long Should a Scar Be Protected From the Sun?

It is important to protect your scars from the sun for at least the first year after they form. After that, you may still need to protect them from the sun, especially if they are located on areas of your body that are exposed to the sun frequently, such as your face, arms, and legs. However, this shouldn’t be too difficult, since you’ll already be protecting your body anyway.

Scar Protection Tips

There are a number of things you can do to prevent your scars from worsening in the sun. These include all of your normal sun protection tips, plus additional tips involving your scar healing products.

 Wearing sunscreen every day, even on cloudy days
Covering up your skin when you are in the sun
Applying scar cream or ointment to new scars
Apply sunscreen and let it dry before applying scar creams or gels
Avoid being in the sun during the sunniest part of the day

 

Rejuvaskin: Your Source for Scar Healing Products and Tips

Here at Rejuvaskin, we truly care about your skin health! Our expert skincare product designers create gentle, effective products that your skin will love. By following these tips and using high-quality sunscreen and silicone products, you can protect your scars from the sun and help them heal properly.