What should you know about healed second-degree burn scars?

A second-degree burn injures the upper skin and part of the deeper skin layer. As it repairs, new collagen can make a scar thicker, firmer, or less flexible than surrounding skin. The area may be darker, paler, redder, or more sensitive to heat and sunlight. A scar crossing a joint can pull when you stretch, while a scar on the trunk or face may mainly cause itch or appearance concerns. Scar colour and softness can change gradually.

Keep healed skin moisturised, use sun protection, and avoid friction or sudden stretching that causes pain. Silicone gel or sheets may be suitable for some scars, but use them only on fully closed skin and stop if irritation develops. Gentle massage and prescribed exercises can help flexibility when a clinician confirms they are safe. Fractional Laser Treatment may improve selected texture or colour concerns; Scar Revision Surgery or a Skin Graft is considered only for particular scars that restrict function or need reconstruction.

Book a review if itch, pain, tightness, or movement restriction is worsening, or if the scar becomes raised beyond the original burn area. Urgent assessment is needed for new drainage, spreading redness, warmth, fever, sudden swelling, or a wound that reopens. Any rapidly changing nodule or bleeding area should be examined.

Ask which scar features need treatment, whether movement therapy is needed, how to use silicone safely, and whether laser or surgery could improve function as well as appearance.