How to Heal a Burn Scar

After a burn wound closes, the new scar may be darker or lighter than nearby skin, feel firm, itch, or pull when a joint moves. Raised scars can thicken, while deeper injuries may leave tight bands or an uneven surface. Scar colour and texture can change over time, so early review is useful when movement, sleep, or daily activities are affected.

Use a bland moisturiser on fully closed skin and apply it gently rather than scratching. Protect the area from sunlight with clothing or a suitable sunscreen, because healing skin can darken. Keep the scar supple with exercises recommended by a clinician, particularly near a joint. A dermatologist may discuss silicone-based care, injections, fractional laser treatment, or [Fractional Laser Treatment](/treatments/laser-and-energy/fractional-laser-treatment/). More restrictive scars may need [Scar Revision Surgery](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/scar-revision-surgery/) or [Skin Graft](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/skin-graft/).

Arrange review if the scar is increasingly painful, hot, swollen, draining, rapidly enlarging, or limiting movement. Seek prompt care if the original burn is not closed, involves the face, hands, feet, genitals, or a major joint, or followed inhalation of smoke. A clinician can distinguish normal scar maturation from infection or contracture and tailor treatment to the burn depth and location.

Is this scar raised, tight, or behaving as expected? When can I start massage or stretching? Would silicone, laser, injections, surgery, or a graft suit its location? How should I protect the area from sun?