Scarring after a second-degree burn

These burns involve the epidermis and part of the dermis. Their depth varies, so two injuries given the same label can heal differently. Initial priority belongs to wound healing; scar treatment is planned after the skin has closed and the diagnosis is clear.

Newly healed skin may look pink, red, brown, or lighter than the surrounding skin. It can feel dry, itchy, tight, tender, firm, or unusually sensitive. A hypertrophic scar stays within the burn boundary but becomes raised and thick. Scar tightening across a joint can restrict movement and is called a contracture.

Colour and firmness often evolve over many months. Sun exposure can make colour contrast more noticeable, while repeated friction may irritate fragile healed skin. Appearance alone does not show whether deeper movement is affected.

If the burn is still open, follow the wound-care plan and do not apply scar products unless the treating clinician approves them. Once fully closed, use a bland moisturiser, protect the area from sun with clothing and suitable sunscreen, and avoid scratching. A clinician may suggest silicone, massage, pressure therapy, exercises, or referral based on the scar’s location and maturity.

For a scar near a joint, maintain only the stretches recommended by the burn or rehabilitation team. Laser treatment or surgery may be considered for selected mature or function-limiting scars after an in-person assessment.

Seek prompt care if an open or recently healed burn develops spreading redness, warmth, swelling, pus, bad odour, fever, worsening pain, or new breakdown. Arrange review when thickening progresses, itching disrupts sleep, the scar limits a joint, or the affected hand, face, neck, or eyelid does not move normally. A fresh deep or extensive burn needs urgent clinical assessment rather than home scar care.

Ask whether the wound is fully closed, whether the scar is hypertrophic or contracted, and which moisturiser, silicone product, or movement plan suits the area. Clarify how to monitor colour and thickness, when photographs may help comparison, and what improvement a procedure can realistically target.