How to Keep a Cut From Scarring
Keep it clean, covered, and coated, and say goodbye to that scar from the get-go.
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You Will Need
- Running water and mild soap
- Self-adhesive bandages
- Antibiotic ointment
- Petroleum jelly
- Sunblock
- Silicone gel sheets
Steps
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See a doctor immediately if your cut is extremely deep, won't stop bleeding, or appears infected.
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Step 1
Clean the cut
Wash your hands thoroughly, and clean your cut with a mild soap under lukewarm running water. Make sure you get all the dirt out of the cut, and if necessary, scrub it gently with a clean washcloth.
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Hard rubbing or scalding water may damage the skin around the cut further.
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Step 2
Use an antibiotic ointment
Apply an antibiotic ointment to the cut to speed healing and prevent infection.
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Avoid hydrogen peroxide. It actually destroys new skin cells, making it harder for your cut to heal. Also, steer clear of vitamin E. It doesn't make a noticeable difference in helping your skin heal.
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Step 3
Keep it moist
Studies show that moist wounds heal faster and better than dry ones, so keep your cut covered with antibiotic ointment and a sterile bandage. Change the dressing as necessary for about a week. When you remove the bandage for good, coat the cut lightly with petroleum jelly.
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If you've got a significant wound, talk to your doctor about using silicone gel sheets and other methods to minimize scarring.
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Step 4
Stay out of the sun
A sunburn can damage the skin of your already-tender cut even further, and UV rays may discolor the area, making the wound more likely to leave a substantial mark. When you go outdoors, use a sunblock with a high SPF, and stay in the shade.
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Scabs slow down the healing process; the dried crust forces new skin cells to work harder to repair a wound.
