Scar Massage
Helping Your Scar Heal Well After Surgery
Scarring is a natural part of the body’s healing process. Initially, your scar may look neat and pale, but it’s completely normal for it to become redder, raised, or more noticeable in the weeks that follow. This is all part of the healing journey.
Scars can take anywhere from 18 months to two years to fully mature, but regular scar massage can help improve the appearance and feel of the scar as it heals.
Why Massage Your Scar?
Gentle, firm massage can offer several benefits as your scar heals:
- Reduces redness, swelling, and promotes flattening of raised tissue
- Stimulates circulation and encourages removal of cellular waste from the area
- Helps to reduce sensitivity in the scar tissue
- Prevents the scar from sticking to deeper tissues, which allows normal movement under the skin
How to Perform Scar Massage
Follow these simple steps to safely massage your scar:
- Use a pea-sized amount of a water-based cream like E45, aqueous cream, or Vaseline Intensive Care.
- Gently massage the cream into the scar using small, circular motions.
- Apply a moderate amount of pressure—enough to move the skin, but not enough to cause pain.
- Avoid dragging or stretching the skin. Let the cream help your fingers glide over the area.
- Continue until the cream is fully absorbed.
Aim to do this up to six times a day, especially in the early stages after your wound has healed.
Important Reminders
- Only begin scar massage once your wound is fully closed and the skin is intact, usually two weeks after surgery.
- If you notice increasing pain, irritation, or changes in the scar, stop and speak to your surgeon or hand therapist.
- Smokers should be aware that smoking can slow tissue healing and increase the risk of complications. Quitting—even temporarily—can significantly improve your body’s healing response.