When Can You Put Cream On A Surgical Scar?

After researching your chosen procedure, selecting a surgeon, and completing your surgery, it’s time to start thinking about your scar treatment. Scarring is inevitable after most surgeries; however, experienced surgeons can make incisions in discrete locations to prevent as much visible scarring as possible.

Fortunately, you can also minimize scarring with several techniques. These scar treatments include laser therapy and tissue massage. Perhaps the most accessible and practical option is a cream for surgical scars. To get the most effective from this treatment, you must begin using it at the best time. So, at what point post-operation can you start using creams like Scar Protocol on your surgical scar?

Phase I: The First Month Post-Operation

Immediately after surgery, make sure to follow your surgeon’s incision care instructions, such as changing your bandage when recommended and cleaning your incision thoroughly. These practices will help reduce the possibility of complications that can impact your healing.

One week post-operation, you can use Scar Protocol cleanser twice daily to ensure the skin around your incision is clean and primed for surgical scar cream. Following the cleanser, use a generous amount of Phase I cream. This cream contains vitamin E and aloe vera to promote healing. Gently massage this cream into the skin around the incision while carefully covering the entire wound.

Phase II: Post-Op Months Two & Three

By Phase II, the scar tissue formed during surgery may still be red and inflamed. These symptoms indicate that healing is still ongoing. During this time, it is crucial to keep the area hydrated. A moisture-rich scar cream like Scar Protocol makes your incision less likely to produce visible scarring once it has healed.

Phase III: Months Four & Five

Around the initial stage of Phase III, the incision should be much less inflamed and irritated. This change signals the beginning of the formation of the actual surgical scar. Apply this next stage of Scar Protocol twice daily to ensure the skin receives the nourishment it needs for healing.

Phase IV: Six Through Nine Month

Your surgical scar formation can take two years to complete, sometimes longer. If you’ve had surgery within the last six months, this is the ideal time to begin a scar treatment cream since the scar hasn’t fully developed.

During Phase IV, you should continue the same way as the previous phases–applying the cream liberally to the incision site and massaging it gently two times a day. This application can help prevent thick, prominent scarring.

Phase V: Ten To Twelve Months Post-Operation

The final phase of Scar Protocol uses retinol, commonly known as vitamin A. This cream promotes the development of collagen, a frequently chosen cosmetic ingredient. Collagen is a protein that exists naturally in our bodies. It also helps keep our skin young and rejuvenated. The retinol contained in Scar Protocol produces a boost in collagen, helping to heal your surgical scar.

Scar Treatment - Post Operative Timeline

The length of time between surgery and scar treatment will vary. Scar Protocol is a specially formulated cream for incision recovery after surgery. You can begin using this treatment one week after surgery. Follow each phase according to your post-operative timeline. After one year, you will have completed your Scar Protocol treatment, and you may notice a decrease in the visibility of your scar.

To learn more about Scar Protocol, email us at hello@scarprotocol.com or use our online contact form.