Ointment for scars: what is the best to choose?

Scar ointment is a relatively inexpensive way to reduce the visibility of skin imperfections. For many years, scientists have been developing methods to combat scars.

A scar is a cicatricial change in tissue as a result of exposure to a certain damaging factor with subsequent disruption of the integrity of the skin. Connective tissue that forms in place of normal skin is visually different from the surrounding tissues, therefore it is a cosmetic defect.

Over time, special devices and procedures began to be used to get rid of defects. Their disadvantage was their high cost. An alternative to such expensive methods is an ointment for scars, which, even if it does not completely get rid of the defect, will still make it less noticeable.

Indications for the use of ointments for scars

The following indications for the use of ointments for scars are distinguished:

• Keloid scars are scars that appear as a result of traumatic injury, burns (high temperature water, steam or chemicals), surgical interventions. The distinctive feature of these scars is their elevation above the skin level and growth beyond the primary site of injury.
• hypertrophic scars – scars that appear exclusively at the site of the primary lesion without involving surrounding tissues in the process, and over time may even decrease in size;
• ankylosis with decreased joint mobility;
• Dupuytren's contracture;
• tendon contractures as a result of exposure to a traumatic factor;
• stretch marks obtained during pregnancy or rapid loss of extra pounds;
• atrophic scars that appear as a result of prolonged healing of boils or widespread acne;
• preventive measures to prevent the appearance of scar formations after surgery.

Release form

In order for the drug to be easy to use and at the same time not to lose its effectiveness, manufacturers always take this fact into account and try to produce the most suitable option. The form of release of the drug is one of the most important components of its entire "image", since it should be convenient for a person to use it. In addition, the form of release should ensure optimal shelf life of the drug.

Scar remedies come in the form of a gel or ointment, making them easy to use and easy to apply. Ointments also contain a certain concentration of the active substance, which has a direct effect on the damaged area of the skin.

Ointments and gels can be produced in tubes or jars of a certain volume. As for the tube, here the packaging is more convenient, since each time the required amount of the drug is squeezed out without contact with the total volume. In a jar, on the contrary, you need to use additional sticks, with which you can take the ointment without contact with the rest of the volume.

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Pharmacodynamics

The pharmacodynamics of ointments for scars is based on the properties of the ingredients that make up the preparation. Basically, the main effects are due to the normalization of microcirculation in the affected area of the skin and the limitation of the spread of connective tissue with the formation of scars.

Pharmacodynamics of ointments for scars provides effective impact on deep layers of skin with subsequent increase in elasticity and firmness. The surface of horse skin after application of ointments for scars becomes smooth and firm due to resorption of keloid tissue and restoration of water balance of the upper layer of skin.

Pharmacokinetics

In order to understand how effective the drugs are, it is necessary to know their ingredients and properties. The pharmacokinetics of ointments for scars is based on the special effect of the components on the tissue replacing normal skin. Thus, it is worth highlighting the fibrinolytic effect, the anti-inflammatory effect, which reduces or prevents the development of the inflammatory process in the lesion, the antithrombotic effect, which helps eliminate already formed blood clots and prevents the appearance of new ones to normalize local blood circulation, as well as the keratolytic effect, which causes a gradual decrease in the growth of connective tissue and the regeneration of normal layers of the skin.

The pharmacokinetics of ointments against scars mainly consists of inhibition of proliferation (multiplication) of keloid fibroblasts. In parallel to this, stimulation of cellular regeneration is observed without further hyperplasia and tissue growth on the surrounding healthy skin.

Method of administration and dosage

In order to avoid the development of side effects and achieve the desired therapeutic effect, it is necessary to follow the instructions and use the drug in the dosages indicated. The method of application and dosage are mandatory for compliance, since ointments are an exclusively external remedy and are not allowed for internal use.

A certain method of application and dosage determine the therapeutic effect without the occurrence of side effects during the treatment period. Thus, ointments for scars should be used externally on the scar area, having previously cleaned it from other drugs. Usually, the use of scrubs is not required, washing with ordinary soap is enough. Then a small amount of ointment should be applied to the scar and lightly rubbed in with circular movements. In addition, it is possible to use the product with bandages. Depending on the components, the frequency of application of the ointment may vary.

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Ointment for facial scars

Scars on the face primarily bother people from a cosmetic point of view. In order to get rid of these defects or at least make them less noticeable, it is necessary to select a special product, since the skin of the face is very soft and thin. One of the most acceptable products is the ointment for scars on the face with a liquid consistency "Scarguard". It has features in application: it is applied with a brush in a thin layer, after which the ointment dries very quickly with the formation of a transparent film.

The effectiveness of the ointment is to protect the affected areas from environmental influences, while the scar heals. The scar gradually becomes soft due to the silicone, active substances and vitamins included in the ointment. Depending on the depth of the scar, the frequency of application and duration of use (up to 6 months) change.

Scar Resorption Ointment

A scar resorption ointment with a liquid consistency, which includes collodion with silicone, can speed up the healing of scars. It should be applied to the damaged area of the skin, after which a dense film forms on the surface. It performs a protective function against the negative impact of environmental factors. In addition, the film slightly compresses the scars, which promotes faster tissue healing. Silicone provides nutrition and hydration of the skin.

It is recommended to use the ointment for scar absorption twice a day. It is effective both on areas with thin skin, such as the face, and on the thighs, back or lower back.

Ointment for acne scars

Acne occurs in everyone, only at different ages. However, not everyone has scars after their healing. This mainly occurs as a result of widespread rashes and damage to the deep layers of the skin. The ointment for acne scars "Sledotsid" can reduce the inflammatory reaction, activate the regenerative capabilities of the skin, accelerate its cleansing from scarring after acne and prevent the appearance of new scars. The ointment can be used on the face and other areas of the body. The product should be applied at least 2-3 times a day. The ointment should be applied in a thin layer and wait until completely absorbed.

Ointment for old scars

Among all the products that can get rid of scars, the ointment for old scars - Dermatix stands out. It helps soften and dissolve keloid masses in the affected area. Due to the composition, which includes silicone, the ointment is an effective non-invasive means of combating hypertrophic and keloid scars. The ointment acts in the superficial layer of the skin, without having a systemic effect.

The ointment for old scars is popular due to the absence of many contraindications from internal organs. Before use, it is necessary to clean the affected area with soap, wipe dry. Then the ointment should be applied in a thin layer to the scar and wait until it dries (approximately 5 minutes). It is not recommended to use cosmetics, as well as cover with clothing until completely absorbed to avoid contamination.

Scar ointment for children

Children belong to a separate group that requires a special approach and special medications. Among them, it is worth paying attention to the cream for healing and resorption of scars "Zeraderm Ultra". The mechanism of action of the cream is the formation of a strong protective film after application. It helps to repel water and affect the structure of the affected area of the skin. Scar smoothing occurs at the molecular level, which ensures the restoration of healthy skin.

Scar ointment for children is mainly used to smooth out post-operative scars, but it can be used for scars acquired in everyday life. Depending on the depth of the scar, the effectiveness of the product can reach complete skin restoration. The duration of treatment lasts on average about 2-3 months. Scar ointment for children "Zeraderm Ultra" can be used both on the face and on other areas of the body.

Ointment for scars after burns

A burn scar may appear as a result of extensive or deep damage to the skin. The ointment for burn scars "Rescuer" should be applied in a thick layer to the damaged area of the body. After this, the consistency of the balm changes slightly and becomes more fluid. Due to this ability, the product penetrates into small skin folds. The damaged area should be covered with a bandage to speed up the healing process.

The effect of the balm is achieved with the help of special components that are part of the product. They provide activation of regenerative processes for faster healing. In addition, the ointment for scars after a burn prevents infection of the affected area of the skin, and in case of infection, this product helps to clean the surface.

Ointment for chickenpox scars

Scars after chickenpox are a relatively uncommon phenomenon, but they still occur in childhood or adulthood. They appear due to failure to follow certain rules during the disease. Skin rashes should not be scratched, despite severe itching. In addition, the structure of the skin of each person is different and the depth of the lesion also differs. After treatment of chickenpox in such cases, traces in the form of pigmentation or even scars may remain. In order to get rid of them, the ointment for scars after chickenpox "Kontraktubeks" is used. The duration of use of the product is approximately 3 months.

The composition of the cream helps to soften the structure of scar tissue and reduce the visibility of scars. For greater effect, it is allowed to use the cream in combination with ultrasound, which ensures deep penetration. The procedure should be carried out in a clinical setting.

Contractubex

Contractubex scar ointment has antiproliferative, softening, smoothing and anti-inflammatory effects, due to which the product helps to reduce scars.

The ointment contains onion extract, which reduces the inflammatory reaction. This occurs due to a decrease in the production of inflammation mediators with a decrease in the likelihood of an allergic reaction in the affected area. In keloid tissue, inhibition of fibroblast proliferation is observed due to the suppression of mitosis and the formation of proteoglycans. In addition, onion extract has a bactericidal effect.

Contractubex scar ointment contains sodium heparin, which has antiallergic, antiproliferative and anti-inflammatory effects. Its action ensures the normalization of the water balance of the skin layers, as a result of which it becomes elastic and soft. In addition, the antithrombotic effect of heparin helps to reduce the formation of blood clots.

Allantoin is necessary for faster healing and epithelialization of the damaged surface. With the help of keratolytic action, this component provides high tissue permeability for the remaining components of the ointment. In addition, allantoin reduces itching.

Together, all ingredients lead to significant inhibition of the formation of excess fibroblasts and the synthesis of collagen structures.

Contraindication to the use of the ointment is hypersensitivity to parabens. As for the period of pregnancy, it is allowed for use, as it does not have a systemic effect.

Apply a small amount of Contractubex to the scar area and rub in gently until completely absorbed. For old scars, it is recommended to use the ointment under a bandage 2 times a day for 1 week to a couple of months.

Dermatix

Dermatix scar ointment is used as an effective remedy against already formed scars. In addition, it can be used for preventive purposes to avoid stretch marks during pregnancy or to quickly get rid of extra pounds. The drug should be applied only to the skin.

The ointment contains polysiloxanes and silicon dioxide. Thanks to silicone, a protective film is formed on the skin surface after application of the product. In addition to the main task - eliminating scars, Dermatix scar ointment moisturizes the skin, gives it a healthy look, eliminates itching and prevents the appearance of pigmentation of scar tissue.

The product should not be applied to the skin if there is already any other medication or cosmetics on it. In addition, it is necessary to be careful not to apply the ointment to the mucous membranes, especially the eyes.

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Clearwin

Scar ointment Klirvin is produced in Russia. In essence, the product is an Ayurvedic cream that can get rid of not only scars, but also traces of burns, acne and other rashes. In addition, it helps reduce postpartum stretch marks or stretch marks due to sudden weight loss.

The cream works thanks to herbal extracts and natural antioxidants, vitamin E and other additional components. Clearvin is able to penetrate deep into the skin and influence its regeneration. In addition, the cream improves oxygen delivery to cells, which activates skin renewal.

The ointment for scars, Clearvin, with the help of herbs improves blood circulation in the scar area, saturates the superficial layers of the skin with moisture, makes it soft and normalizes the water balance. As a preventive measure to prevent the appearance of stretch marks, pregnant women should start using Clearvin from the second trimester. If stretch marks have already appeared, then the cream should be used regularly for 3 months.

Vishnevsky ointment

Vishnevsky's ointment for scars belongs to the group of antiseptic and disinfectant agents. It contains birch tar, xeroform and other auxiliary substances. The properties of the ointment are due to weak irritating, anti-inflammatory effects on the tissue receptor apparatus. In addition, the liniment promotes the activation of regenerative processes in the epidermis due to the normalization of blood supply to skin cells.

Vishnevsky ointment for scars can be used both by simply applying it to the affected area of skin and as a bandage made of several layers of gauze soaked in the preparation. It is necessary to use the ointment with caution in people who have increased sensitivity to phenols and its derivatives. The ointment can be used simultaneously with other systemic drugs.

Methyluracil ointment

The group to which methyluracil ointment for scars belongs is called metabolic process stimulants. The product has an anabolic and anti-catabolic effect, accelerating the processes of cellular regeneration and tissue healing, while providing an anti-inflammatory effect.

Methyluracil ointment for scars is absorbed into the systemic bloodstream in small quantities. As for childhood, the use of the ointment is permitted only from the age of 3, and during pregnancy and lactation - under the supervision of a doctor. With the combined use of methyluracil ointment and antibacterial drugs, the effectiveness of the latter increases, and the microorganisms that are targeted by the therapy acquire resistance to antibiotics more slowly.

Heparin ointment

Heparin ointment for scars is not a first-line drug of choice. It is inferior in many ways to other external agents in this price range. The ointment is an anticoagulant and contains sodium heparin, benzocaine and benzyl nicotinate. The properties of the ointment ensure resorption and prevention of new blood clots. In addition, a decrease in pain is noted.

Heparin ointment for scars is not used during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as well as in the presence of blood clotting pathology. When used together with systemic anticoagulants, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and acetylsalicylic acid, the activity of the ointment increases. As for the reduction in the effect of the ointment, this is observed when taking tetracyclines, antihistamines and digitalis preparations.

Actovegin

Actovegin ointment for scars contains very small molecules of the active substance, which allows it to penetrate into the deep layers of the skin. This product accelerates the processing of glucose and oxygen in tissues, thereby increasing resistance to hypoxia and activating energy metabolism.

Actovegin ointment for scars is allowed to be used during pregnancy and lactation. It is necessary to apply it in a thin layer, and also use it under a bandage. During the day, the ointment can be used 2-3 times. The duration of treatment depends on the depth of the scar and the time during which the scar exists.

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Rescuer

The scar rescue ointment consists of dexpanthenol, chlorhexidine bigluconate and additional components. Due to this composition, the product provides an antiseptic effect, and also takes an active part in metabolic processes at the cellular level. It is panthenolic acid that is necessary for the formation and healing of damaged areas of the skin, as well as their saturation with vitamins.

The Rescuer ointment for scars is not recommended for use in the presence of purulent masses and in children under one year. The frequency of application and duration of use are prescribed individually, taking into account the depth of the scar and the duration of the process.

The best ointment for scars

The best ointment for scars "Kelofibrase" is used to reduce postoperative or other scars that have formed as a result of diseases or traumatic injuries. In addition, the product can be used not only for treatment, but also for the prevention of stretch marks in pregnant women or with sudden weight loss. The effectiveness of the ointment depends on the regularity of use of the product, as well as the characteristics of the skin.

The ointment helps to increase elasticity and normalize the water balance of the skin. Thanks to this, it acquires protection from tears and scars. The cream is applied in a thin layer to the affected area up to 4 times a day. Then it is necessary to rub the cream into the skin surface with massage movements. There is another way to use the ointment - compresses with this product.

Using Scar Ointments During Pregnancy

Like all drugs, ointments also have their own special recommendations for use. Among them, in each instruction you can find information about the prohibition or permission of use during pregnancy or lactation. The use of ointments for scars during pregnancy is determined by the pharmacokinetic properties of each drug. So, if the instructions say that some ingredients are absorbed into the general bloodstream, then there is a possibility that the fetus will also encounter them.

Among the ointments, it is worth highlighting several types that are allowed for use during such periods - these are Vishnevsky ointment, Contractubex and Clearvin from the 4th month. In addition, the use of ointments for scars during pregnancy is limited in Methyluracil ointment, since its use is allowed under the supervision of a doctor.

Despite the indications of the drugs, during pregnancy it is recommended to consult a doctor before using any drug, regardless of the instructions, since each organism is individual and requires a certain approach.

Contraindications to the use of ointments for scars

Each drug, and scar ointment is no exception, has its own contraindications. They all depend on the components of the drug that are part of it and directly affect the human body.

Contraindications to the use of ointments for scars:

• hypersensitivity to individual ingredients of the ointment;
• ulcerative-necrotic processes, as well as open and fresh wound surfaces with further development of the inflammatory process and slowing down of the natural regeneration of the skin;
• mucous membranes and eye area;
• areas of the skin to which other medications have already been applied, in order to avoid the development of side effects due to their combined action;
• allergic rashes and other associated pathological processes in the area of scars (rashes);
• oncological neoplasms in the area of scars;
• purulent processes in the affected area.

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Side effects of scar ointments

In case of non-compliance with certain recommendations for use or with increased sensitivity of the body to the drug, side effects of ointments for scars may develop. Among them, it is worth paying attention to an allergic reaction of the skin - urticaria, redness, burning and the appearance of rashes, blisters and itching, eczema, contact dermatitis and skin irritation

In general, most ointments do not penetrate into the general bloodstream and do not spread throughout the body, so side effects of scar ointments have a low probability of occurrence, provided that all recommendations for use are followed.

Overdose

Overdose of external use products is possible only if the rules for using the ointment are not followed. Due to the fact that the drugs penetrate the walls of the blood vessel in small quantities and enter the systemic bloodstream, the development of severe reactions is unlikely.

Overdose may be observed when using Vishnevsky balm. With prolonged use, local reactions may occur, which are manifested by reddening of the skin area where the ointment was applied, as well as itching. Treatment of this condition requires the inclusion of antihistamines in therapy and, of course, the abolition of Vishnevsky ointment. In other cases of ointment use, there are no cases of overdose.

Interactions with other drugs

External use products should be used only on the surface of the skin. Negative interactions of scar ointments with other drugs are observed if any product was used on the affected area of the body before applying the ointment. When combined, side effects may develop that worsen the healing and regeneration processes.

As for the systemic effect, these products are mostly not absorbed into the bloodstream, so they do not affect the body as a whole. Interaction of scar ointments with other drugs is possible and even necessary if you need to use complex treatment, combining products for external and internal use. However, in some cases, drugs for internal use can enhance or inhibit the activity of ointments, so you should definitely read the instructions before use.

Storage conditions

Storage conditions for scar ointments are almost the same for all. Thus, it is not recommended to expose the preparation to direct sunlight and store it in the refrigerator. In addition, there is a certain storage temperature. So, for Vishnevsky ointment, the maximum temperature is +15 °C. As for the rest, the permissible degrees are generally slightly higher and reach +20 °C. After purchasing an external remedy, you should read the instructions, in particular the storage conditions.

Also, storage conditions for ointments for scars imply removing the drug from children to avoid unpleasant situations.

Best before date

The expiration date includes the time during which the product has its medicinal properties and provides positive therapeutic dynamics. After this period, the drug becomes unsafe for humans, so it is not allowed for use.

The shelf life of scar ointments can vary from 3 to 5 years. Everything depends on the components that are part of the ointment, as well as the storage conditions. If the storage rules are not followed, the product for external use may lose its effective properties before the specified period, therefore, in order to avoid the development of adverse reactions, it is necessary to follow all storage recommendations.

Price of ointments for scars

The price of ointments for scars varies in a fairly large range. It depends on the volume of the product, as well as the manufacturer. If we compare the most popular products for external use, the most expensive ointments for scars range from 350 to 390 UAH. This is Dermatix ointment in a volume of 15 g, made in the USA. Of course, there are even more expensive drugs, but not everyone can afford them. Contractubex is a little cheaper, its price is approximately 150 UAH for 20 g of ointment, made in Germany.

Other scar resorption products cost from 20 to 50 UAH. This group includes heparin, methyluracil, actovegin ointments, as well as rescuer and clearvin. The volume of the preparations ranges from 20 to 30 g in tubes.

Reviews of scar ointments

The biggest competition is between Kontratubex and Dermatix. These products have a huge number of positive reviews. Of course, we cannot exclude reviews about the lack of effect, but there are few of them. In most cases, everyone chooses their own method of treatment: using ready-made ointments or traditional medicine.

In general, reviews of scar ointments have more good ratings than bad ones. Do not forget the fact that each person has a certain skin structure and a tendency to one or another pathology. The ointment can help some, but not others, so you can not fully rely on reviews of scar ointments, since the size of the scar and its duration of existence are different, and the effects will also differ.