What Is the First Treatment for Burn Scars?

A burn scar can be raised, tight, itchy, darker or lighter than nearby skin, or sensitive to friction. Treatment is different while a wound is open than after the surface has fully healed. Once healing is complete, regular moisturising and guided massage may soften dryness and improve comfort. Pressure or silicone-based support may be recommended for selected raised scars. Sun protection helps reduce additional colour change. A clinician also checks whether the scar crosses a joint, pulls on an eyelid or mouth, or limits movement, because function may matter more than appearance.

Do not massage an open, weeping, or infected area. After a clinician confirms that the skin is healed, use the recommended moisturiser and massage method consistently, stopping if the area cracks or becomes painful. Protect the scar from sun and avoid picking or harsh exfoliation. Physiotherapy may help when tightness affects movement. If the scar remains raised, uneven, or restrictive, options can include Fractional Laser Treatment, Scar Revision Surgery, or a Skin Graft, chosen according to scar depth, location, and function.

Get medical advice if a scar becomes increasingly red, hot, swollen, painful, wet, or foul-smelling, or if it opens again. Arrange assessment when tightness limits a joint, walking, eating, seeing, or another normal activity. A new change in a long-standing scar also deserves review.

Ask whether the burn is fully healed, which moisturiser or silicone product is appropriate, and how firmly to massage. Ask how the scar may affect movement and whether laser treatment, scar revision, or grafting would address function as well as texture.