Red and raised scars are called hypertrophic. They are characterized by the discolorizaton, thick tissue, and can itch and sometimes cause pain because of contraction. Because the trauma has damaged the nerve endings this can result in pain or discomfort too. Also non-elevated scars can be red. This redness fades after a few months to a year in most cases. Sometimes it doesn’t and might even get worse. This depends on the skin type, race, age, lifestyle of a person, and the location on the body. (Some skin areas are far more sensitive)

Especially surgical scars, which are remains of relatively deep wounds, are prone to developing scar redness (erythema).  Immature scars are still in development. New cells and tissue are being created. To support this process the body creates additional blood vessels and an increased blood flow. This is what leads to scar redness.

Things you can do to reduce scar redness are massaging the scar gently and regularly. Keeping the scar hydrated. For example by daily applying Vaseline or another hydrating ointment. Also warmth seems to benefit the healing process studies show. Heat packs or paraffin wax are used for this purpose. Something very important is to keep the scar out of the sun at all times. Sun radiation is very detrimental to the tissue and will result in more redness and probably even worse effects.

The best product to use are silicone patches. These have been used for decades by burn wound centers and hospitals. These patches are especially effective in toning down the color and flattening elevated scars.  Visit this page for my experiences with and additional information on how to reduce scar redness.