if so why and how
2006-10-09 05:45:29 · 10 answers · asked by jacsy 1 in Health ➔ General Health Care ➔ Other - General Health Care
Actually, scar tissue is deficient in melanin, the pigment that protects your skin from damaging UV rays. (Notice that scars do not have freckles or moles in them)
New scars should be covered in bright sun, by an occlusive dressing or opaque clothing.
Older scars (>1 yr) can be exposed to the sun, unless they are very extensive, like skin graft donation sites. Those should be protected until the site is completely healed, and even then you should wear sunscreen.
Scar tissue is more sensitive to damage from UV rays because it lacks melanin.
2006-10-09 05:53:56 · answer #1 · answered by phantomlimb7 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I'm not sure about if they 'should' be covered in bright sunlight - but I do know that scars are a thicker form of skin and tougher - so in bright sunlight (or any type of sun exposure) they don't tan as well as unmarked skin and therefore show up far more. Covering them will only enhance this 'lighter' effect.
Best advice is to use sun and UVA and UVB protection on all your exposed skin - not just for now, but for the future too.
Prevention is always the best cure.
2006-10-09 05:52:55 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I have several scars including one on the top of my head. I use sunscreen on that one as it will give me a headache after awhile in strong sun. Eventually the scar will toughen up a bit like regular skin, but for the first few years or so I'd keep them covered or at the very least use sunscreen. I've also found that pure cocoa butter and some vitamin E 9internally and externally) have helped lessen the look of the scar tissue. :)
2006-10-09 05:51:44 · answer #3 · answered by Skullchick 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Not necessarily covered, just put a high SPF on them, or sunblock. Be even more careful if they are new scars because it's new skin which is more delicate and likely to burn.
The reason you have to do this is because scars, especially new ones, have no or little pigment in them, which gives them the colouring of your skin and can give them some protection ( it think).
I have scars from silly things and always cover them on holiday with baby suncream which has a really high SPF. My mum has scars from when she was little and is still very careful about protecting them. :]
2006-10-09 05:56:07 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes, earlier this year I fell and cut my face. When I went to have the stitches removed at the local maxillo-facial clinic they said that I should use sunblock for at least 6 months as scars can burn easily. I have to say that I didn't as I would have to reapply throughout the day and I like my make up too much. But I did notice that it did burn easily and 7 months on it is still pretty red.
2006-10-09 06:31:38 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I think so, beacuse strong sunlight, that means a lot of UV rays, might cause a bad scar healing or some stains above it.
2006-10-09 05:49:19 · answer #6 · answered by AlfredCT 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
yes its true... the sunlight will cause the scars to darken, meaning they will be more visible. you should cover the scar with clothing, or if its on your face, avoid prolonged exposure to the sun and wear sunscreen. but you must do both.
2006-10-09 05:50:18 · answer #7 · answered by Lin B 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
yes, as the skin is not full thickness like other skin it needs to be protected and can burn far easier! Bio oil helps reduce the scar with frequent use but dont go out in the sun with bio oil on or it will burn bad!
2006-10-09 05:56:08 · answer #8 · answered by mustlovedogs0 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yeah i think so uv light isnt very good for them, you should use Bio Oil its expensive but works very well! x
2006-10-09 05:47:41 · answer #9 · answered by sam s 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
thats a good question, but i dont think you should look for the answer on yahoo, ask yourself that question good luck!
2006-10-10 22:13:50 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋