Whether you should touch a scar depends largely on the type of scar and its condition. Generally, it's best to avoid unnecessary touching, especially if the scar is open, infected, or painful. However, gentle care is important for healthy scar healing.
When to Avoid Touching a Scar:
- Infected or irritated scars: Touching an infected scar can spread bacteria and worsen the infection. Signs of infection include redness, swelling, pus, pain, and warmth around the scar. (Sources: Impetigo | NHS inform, Patient education: Skin burns (Beyond the Basics) - UpToDate) Avoid touching areas like impetigo lesions to prevent spreading the infection.
- Painful scars: Some scars, like keloids, can be tender or itchy when touched. Avoid touching these to minimize discomfort. (Sources: Keloid on Ear: What It Is, Piercing, Removal, Scar, Behind Ear, Keloid scars: Signs and symptoms)
- Open wounds: Avoid touching any open wound to prevent infection.
- Burns: Avoid touching a burn, especially a severe one, as this can cause further damage and infection. (Source: Patient education: Skin burns (Beyond the Basics) - UpToDate) Touching a first or second-degree burn might cause more pain.
- Giant Hogweed burns: Absolutely do not touch this plant; it causes painful burns and scarring. (Source: Giant Hogweed - NYSDEC)
When Gentle Touching is Acceptable:
- Moisturizing: Gently applying a non-perfumed moisturizer, especially one containing vitamin E, to the skin around the scar can help keep the area hydrated and promote healing. Always wash your hands beforehand. (Source: provided text: Always wash your hands before touching your scar...)
- Cleaning: If a scar needs cleaning, gently wash the area with mild soap and water, then pat it dry.
Important Note: Most scars will fade over time, but you cannot completely get rid of them. (Source: Scars - NHS)
