What to know about healed burn scars on the face

A scar may feel firm, itchy, sensitive, or less flexible than nearby skin. Raised scars can grow beyond the original wound, while depressed or tethered scars may pull when you smile or move the mouth. Colour changes may become more noticeable after sun exposure. A scar can continue to mature for a long time, so a stable appearance does not always mean the tissue has finished changing.

A dermatology assessment considers the original burn, skin thickness, texture, colour, movement, and symptoms. Facial skin needs careful planning because treatment intensity and aftercare affect pigment and healing.

Use gentle cleansing, moisturise when the skin is closed, and protect the scar from sunlight with shade and a suitable sunscreen. Avoid picking, harsh scrubs, and unprescribed bleaching or steroid products. If the scar is tight, ask a clinician whether massage or stretching is appropriate; pressure or movement work should be tailored to the scar and must not injure the skin.

For texture or colour concerns, options may include fractional laser treatment. A tethered, bulky, or function-limiting scar may be assessed for scar revision surgery, and extensive tissue loss may require a skin graft. These treatments are planned around healing and skin type.

Arrange review if the scar becomes increasingly raised, painful, itchy, red, or tight, or if it restricts eyelid, lip, or neck movement. Seek prompt care for new drainage, warmth, spreading redness, fever, or an open area. Any rapidly changing lump or ulcer within a scar should be examined rather than treated at home.

Ask whether the scar is still maturing, which feature is suitable for treatment, how many stages may be needed, and how pigment changes will be reduced. Ask about expected downtime, sun protection, and what changes should prompt an earlier review.