Did you know weather and temperature changes affect wound healing and scarring? It’s true. Both the sun and the cold can impact how well a wound heals as well as how it scars.
In colder weather, the temperature and humidity levels are very low, which means your skin has to do more to remain hydrated. Wind and cold steal your skin of this hydration, which is why you may experience dry, chapped skin in winter. You may also feel itchiness with your scar, as well as inflammation and cracks on the top layer of skin.
Another adjustment will occur as the weather turns warm in summer. With humidity, your skin may feel greasier to the touch, and that’s because more oil is clinging to the skin and pores. Moisturizing often, especially after spending time in the sun, will help. In addition to regular lotion, massage any scarred areas with silicone gel like Scarfade to add moisture and help the wound heal faster.
Low Humidity
At times of low humidity, such as in winter, you want to keep moisture locked in as much as possible. Limit showers to about five minutes and try not to use scalding hot water. Wash with a nourishing body wash and follow it up with a thicker cream to moisturize than you would choose in the summer. Cream ingredients you should look for include hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and glycerin.
Once summer comes and humidity sets in, use an oil-removing cleanser with a lighter moisturizer, lotion or gel. Apply sunscreen of at least SPF 30 on your face and body, but don’t neglect those scarred areas. If left exposed, they will get darker and you don’t want that. That’s because scars are extremely sensitive to the sun’s UV rays. Cover them completely for the first six months while healing, and don’t soak in a bath for more than 15 minutes to keep healing times down.
It’s wise to keep a tube of Scarfade always at the ready, as it’s a proven topical treatment that can reduce scarring on the skin.
Cold Weather
As we head into winter, keep in mind that lower temperatures make skin dry out and crack. Colder temperatures translate to slower blood flow, which is critical for the wound healing process. Sub-par circulation hampers oxygenation of the wound site, which makes it more difficult to repel harmful bacteria.
Poor circulation also hampers tissue regeneration.
There are some things you can do to help your wounds heal properly.
- Get outside:Proper blood circulation and wound healing require physical activity. Keep the area covered with a loose dressing so as not to cut off your circulation. Low-impact activities are best, such as yoga, walking, and swimming.
- Wash hands often
- Get a flu shot
- Avoid crowded places
In the meantime, here are some helpful FAQs about Scarfade that will give you some inspiration.