Overview

Scars are composed of collagen fibers the body uses to bind together a wound. Unfortunately, scar tissue doesn't function as well as the tissue it replaces, so you want to encourage the body to grow as much normal tissue, and as little scar tissue, as possible. Once a scar has formed, it can expensive to treat and almost impossible to get rid of entirely. With a little care, it's possible to prevent scars from forming in the first place.

Step 1

Gently flush the wound with clean water. Do not use soap in the wound, as it may irritate the cut, but use the soap and washcloth to clean the area around the wound if it's dirty.

Step 2

Apply antibiotic ointment. According to Family Doctor, the website of the American Academy of Family Physicians, antibiotic ointment will help a cut close up and can help prevent scarring.

Step 3

Apply a bandage or silicone scar sheet. The antiobiotic ointment will keep the wound moist, so you need to keep the wound covered. You can use bandages, but silicone scar sheets are effective in reducing scarring, especially when used on burns. A 1993 study published in the "Journal of Dermatologic Surgery and Oncology" found that "silicone gel sheets resulted in moderate improvement in scar thickness and scar color and was noted to be effective to some degree in all tested."

Step 4

Massage the area as it heals. Massage it for a minute at a time, several times a day. Gently breaking up the collagen fibers before they can set will maximize normal tissue development while reducing scar tissue.