What should you know about faja burn scar?

A faja is a close-fitting compression garment. Heat trapped beneath it, rubbing, pressure or a poorly fitting edge can injure skin and leave a mark. A recent burn may be red, painful, blistered or raw. A healed scar may instead be darker or lighter than nearby skin, thick, tight, itchy or sensitive.

The appearance depends on burn depth, healing, skin tone and whether infection or repeated friction occurred. A scar can continue to soften and change in colour after the surface has closed, so early appearance does not always predict its final texture.

Remove the source of heat and friction and follow the wound plan given by your clinician. Keep an open area clean and protected; do not break blisters or apply household remedies. Once the skin is closed, moisturising, silicone-based scar care and sun protection may be discussed. Use compression only when the treating team confirms that the garment fits safely and does not rub the area.

For a mature scar, options can include [Fractional Laser Treatment](/treatments/laser-and-energy/fractional-laser-treatment/), [Scar Revision Surgery](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/scar-revision-surgery/) or, for selected extensive injuries, [Skin Graft](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/skin-graft/). Treatment aims and timing depend on the scar’s depth, location and movement restriction.

Get medical advice for a fresh burn, open skin, increasing pain, spreading redness, warmth, pus, fever, numbness or reduced movement. Urgent assessment is needed for a large, deep, circumferential or facial burn, or for breathing difficulty. Do not wait for a scar to form before having a significant garment-related burn assessed.

Ask whether the injury is healed enough for scar care; how to protect it from friction and sunlight; whether silicone or pressure is suitable; when laser or surgery could be considered; and which changes would suggest infection or a tightening scar.