How Sun Exposure Impacts Scarring
Scars form as part of the natural healing process when the skin is damaged by an injury, wound, surgery, burn or inflammation. The body generates collagen to mend injured tissue back together. While scars may fade and improve over time, some tend to darken and worsen with sun exposure.
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can negatively affect scars in several ways. Understanding how the sun influences scarring can help you care for existing scars and prevent new ones from forming.
Effects of Sun on Different Types of Scars
The sun impacts various scar types differently:
- Keloid scars - Can worsen with sun exposure by growing larger and more raised.
- Hypertrophic scars - More likely to become darker and inflamed.
- Flat scars - Can develop hyperpigmentation and appear darker over time.
- Acne scars - Existing marks may look more noticeable.
- Surgical scars - Sun can disrupt and prolong the healing process.
How UV Rays Negatively Impact Scars
Too much unprotected sun exposure can affect scars in these ways:
- Darkening - Increased melanin production causes hyperpigmentation.
- Delayed healing - Slows down the skin regeneration process.
- Dehydration - Dries out and weakens scar tissue.
- Irritation - Can cause red, inflamed and itchy scars.
- Thickening - Scars may become raised and enlarged.
Protecting Scars from the Sun
Shielding new and old scars from UV exposure is crucial for optimal healing. Here are some tips to prevent sun damage:
Use Sunscreen on Scars
Apply broad spectrum SPF 30 or higher sunscreen to scars before sun exposure. Reapply every 2 hours and after swimming or sweating. Choose gentle, unscented formulas designed for sensitive skin.
Wear Protective Clothing
Cover scars with tightly woven long sleeves, pants, hats and other UV protective apparel when outdoors.
Avoid Peak Sun Hours
Minimize direct sun exposure between 10am-2pm when UV rays are strongest.
Don’t Tan with Open Wounds
Wait until any cuts, burns, incisions or scrapes have fully closed before tanning to avoid infection risk.
Use Silicone Sheeting
Covering new post-op scars with silicone sheets provides a protective barrier from the sun while also reducing visible scarring.
Consider Laser Treatment
For mature scars that have already darkened from sun exposure, laser skin resurfacing can remove outer layers to lighten hyperpigmentation.
Aftercare Tips to Minimize Scarring
Along with sun protection, properly caring for wounds can promote healing and reduce the appearance of scars. Try these tips:
Clean Gently
Use mild soap and water to gently cleanse wounds once or twice a day until fully closed. Avoid harsh scrubbing.
Moisturize Regularly
Keep scars well hydrated by massaging in fragrance-free moisturizer several times per day during healing.
Treat With Topicals
Apply ointments like petroleum jelly, vitamin E or over-the-counter scar gels to keep scars flexible and moist.
Consider Silicone Sheets
Wearing silicone sheets over a new scar for 12+ hours per day can flatten and smooth scar tissue.
Use Compression
Compression sleeves, gel sheeting or other gentle pressure on new scars reduces collagen buildup.
Don’t Pick Scabs
Allow any scabs to fall off on their own to avoid disrupting the healing process.
Avoid Reinjuring
Prevent fresh wounds and irritation by protecting tender scars until fully mended.
See a Dermatologist
For severe scarring, a dermatologist can provide professional scar treatment options.
How to Treat Sun-Damaged Scars
If unprotected sun exposure has already caused scars to darken or thicken, these remedies may help:
Over-the-Counter Lightening Products
Lightening creams with ingredients like hydroquinone, kojic acid, licorice extract or vitamin C can gradually fade discoloration over time with regular use.
Prescription Medications
For more dramatic lightening, a dermatologist may prescribe topical treatments like tretinoin, glycolic acid, azelaic acid, steroids or other scar creams.
Professional Peels and Lasers
In-office chemical peels and laser resurfacing procedures can remove pigmented scarred skin layers to reveal fresh skin underneath.
Intralesional Injections
Injecting raised, thick scars with steroids helps shrink and flatten abnormal scar tissue.
Microneedling
Using tiny needles to puncture the skin triggers collagen remodeling to improve scar texture and color.
Surgical Excision
In severe cases, cutting out and removing troublesome scars may be necessary, followed by meticulous wound closure.
When to See a Doctor About Scars
Consult a dermatologist promptly if you notice any of these issues:
- Open wounds lasting longer than 2 weeks to heal
- Signs of infection like oozing, increasing pain or redness
- Scars becoming tighter, thicker and restricting movement
- Dark, inflamed scars still present after 6 months
- A bump or nodule developing on the scar
- Itchy, painful or sensitive scars persisting over time
- Scars causing significant emotional distress
A skin doctor can determine if a scar may benefit from medical procedures for improved healing and appearance.
Scar Prevention Tips
While not all scarring can be avoided, you can minimize chances by:
- Having good wound care supplies readily available
- Getting appropriate medical treatment promptly for wounds
- Keeping wounds clean until fully closed
- Using sun protection diligently on exposed skin
- Letting scabs detach naturally
- Massaging scars with lotion during the healing process
- Following doctor wound care instructions
- Avoiding picking at scabs, blisters or pimples
- Not scratching bug bites
- Treating underlying conditions causing scars like acne
The Takeaway
Unprotected exposure to UV rays can worsen scarring by delaying healing, inflaming the skin and causing hyperpigmentation in existing scars. Diligent sun protection is vital when caring for wounds and scars.
Along with sun avoidance, proper aftercare like wound cleansing, moisturizing, compression and avoiding reinjury can optimize scar healing. For severe or persistent scarring issues, consult a dermatologist about medical treatment options.
FAQs
Does sun exposure make scars darker?
Yes, sun can cause hyperpigmentation and make scars appear darker over time. The UV rays increase melanin production which leads to discoloration.
What is the best way to protect a scar from the sun?
Use broad spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen, protective clothing, avoid peak hours, and consider silicone sheeting. New wounds should be fully closed before sun exposure.
Can you completely prevent scarring from wounds?
While you can't always prevent scarring entirely, proper wound care and sun protection minimizes the appearance. Letting scabs fall off naturally also reduces scarring.
How can you treat a scar damaged by sun exposure?
Over-the-counter lightening creams, prescription treatments, professional chemical peels, laser resurfacing, steroid injections and microneedling can improve sun-damaged scars.
When should you see a doctor about a scar?
Consult a dermatologist if a scar stays open beyond 2 weeks, shows signs of infection, restricts movement, remains dark after 6 months or causes emotional distress.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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