What can I tell people about my scars?

Question

I have scars from SI. All over my body--I can't hide them--I do my best, however, it's often not good enough. People always ask me what they are from--just because they look bad--they look they would have been something. I always shrug, and then they know. I don't do this anymore, and I don't want it constantly thrown in my face. What can I say?

Scars are mostly on my hands, arms, shoulders, collarbone,legs, and neck--medium-sized.

Very dark at my wrists.

Cuts on arms go vertically from my wrists to my elbows (about 7 on each arm)

Answer 1

You can do a great deal for yourself and for others by being truthful when people notice or ask about your scars. There may be someone out there suffering as you were - your honesty and willingness to share may be just what they need to bring themselves out of their problem too.

You will be amazed at how empowering it will be for you to be straightforward with people. Let them know that you had a problem and you conquered it - you may also want to share how you were able to stop this problem.

As a child, it was difficult for me to make friends because I always thought people would laugh at me if I made a mistake or said something wrong. What I found out was if I laughed with them at my mistakes, I was empowered, had friends and stopped taking myself so seriously. I also discovered that what they were laughing at was actually minor mistakes that were funny.

You can do this. Be honest with yourself first - then you can be honest with others. You have nothing to be ashamed of - you have nothing to hide. NO ONE is perfect - no one! We all have our defects - the best we can do it learn from each other and grow. You can be a great teacher. Do it!

Answer 2

If you feel insecure about them you have two options:
to cover them permanently or temporarily.

Laser Scar removal will permanently remove these scars but is expensive and painful.

If you'd just like to hide them from others, wear layers of clothing. A friend of mine who used to SI wears long gloves with the hands cut out and people simply compliment her on her gloves. Ones on your legs can be covered by leggings or pants, and your stomach can easily be covered with a long shirt or blouse.

There are also OTC scar minimizers as a medium between the two.

Answer 3

Tell the truth.
There's a lot of stray cats around...
Work or activity-related injury.
Try to cover them.
Pretend you didn't hear their question.
There are topical creams, and I believe taking Vitamin E, helps with scarring.

Don't let people get you down. Everyone's entitled to a couple screw-ups in their life. Besides, you're definately not alone in this. You'd think people would be more understanding, what with the 'epidemic' of SI.

Answer 4

I don't know what it is you can tell people but if they're something that you regret now having on you some scars (depending on how bad they are) can be faded by moisturizing over time. I used to have lots all up my arms and my doctor suggested I moisturize them daily which now they are very hard to see unless you look hard in good lighting.

Answer 5

It amazes me how insensitive and rude people can be by asking in the first place. I was taught not to gawk at people who are disfigured and never discuss it unless they do for fear of hurting their feelings.

I suggest you simply say that you have SI and then change the subject or just walk away.

Answer 6

Tell them you fell into a giant blender.

Answer 7

Tell them the truth. you have nothing to hide and you shouldn't have to

Answer 8

tell them to mind their own damn business. most important thing is that they are HEALED scars and not open wounds. take care of yourself

Answer 9

I would need more information about how big and where they are... to help you figure out what to say

Answer 10

Tell them its from your distant past and personal and none of their business.