How to Prevent a Scab From Scarring

Scabs from acne, surgery or skin abrasions can become permanent scars after the healing process is done. When a would is healing, collagen in the deep layers of your skin rise to the surface to close the wound, often resulting in a scar. However, there are a few things you can do to prevent a scab from becoming a scar, or lessen the severity of the scar. Some of these methods include keeping the wound clean, moisturized and out of the sun.

Things You'll Need

• Antibiotic ointment
• Antibacterial soap
• Sunscreen with SPF
• Aloe vera gel or petroleum jelly
• Moisturizing lotion or scar gel

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Instructions

• 1

  Treat the wound or scab correctly to prevent infection. Promoting healing is recommended for any type of injury. Use an antibiotic ointment to help aid this process. Avoid rubbing or peeling your scab, which can aggravate the wound.

• 2

  Cover your wound. This keeps foreign objects out. However, leave a little "breathing room" for your scab by loosening the band-aid from time to time.

• 3

  Keep the scab clean by washing it with a gentle, antibacterial soap. Be sure to rinse thoroughly.

• 4

  Avoid direct sunlight on your scab. Especially with sensitive and newly formed tissue, sunlight can affect tissue regeneration. Applying sunscreen with SPF can help avoid this damage.

• 5

  Apply a dime-sized amount of a moisturizer such as aloe vera gel or petroleum jelly daily while the wound is healing. This keeps the scab cool and moisturized.

• 6

  Massage the skin gently with moisturizing lotion or a topical scar gel in a circular motion for 15 seconds after the wound has healed completely. Massaging helps break down the bonds of collagen, which helps to prevent scarring. Scar gels can help lighten the color of the mark, making it less noticeable.