What Happens to Scars in the Sun? Here's How To Practice Proper Scar Protection from the Sun

We know how essential it is for you to feel comfortable in your skin, and we understand that scars can sometimes make you feel a bit self-conscious. But let's get one thing straight right off the bat: scars are a part of life, and there's absolutely nothing to be ashamed of. If there's a little hyperpigmentation or redness around your scars, it's totally okay.

Sunlight, with its powerful effects on the skin, can be both a blessing and a curse when it comes to scars.

In this article, we'll walk you through what happens to scars when they bask in the sun's glow and how you can embrace your journey with confidence. So, let's dive in and explore the delicate relationship between scars and sunlight!

The Sunlight Magic on Scar Pigmentation

Sunlight works its wonders on scars by stimulating melanin production, the magic that gives your skin its color. And you know what that means? The skin around your scars can darken, making those marks less noticeable. But hey, we want you to rock that sunny glow responsibly. Too much sun exposure can lead to pesky hyperpigmentation and extra redness around your scars. So, sun-kissed with caution!

UVB Therapy: A Helping Hand for Scars

In a study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, researchers found that UVB therapy was able to reduce the thickness and redness of hypertrophic scars by up to 50%. The therapy works by stimulating the production of vitamin D and collagen in the skin, which can help to reduce scar size and thickness. Science has a trick up its sleeve to minimize scars, and we're here to share it with you!

A Ray of Hope for Post-Laser Treatment

Here's a cool nugget: another study revealed that patients exposed to UV light after laser scar treatment experienced faster healing and less scarring compared to those who didn't receive such exposure. Although this study was conducted in a clinical setting, it highlights the potential benefits of controlled UV exposure for scar recovery.

Sunlight Precautions for Your Scars

Whether you're hesitant to expose your scar to sunlight due to concerns about burns and hyperpigmentation, or you're seeking to improve your scar's appearance with the sun's gentle touch, taking protective measures is absolutely crucial. Safeguarding your skin from excessive sun exposure should always be a top priority, regardless of your scar situation. Remember, there are ways to address both sides of the coin – whether you want to protect your scars or harness the sun's potential for scar improvement. By applying sunscreen with an appropriate SPF, limiting your time in the sun, and avoiding direct sunlight during peak hours when UV rays are most potent, you can pave the way for a safe and beneficial experience. Protecting your skin is paramount, whether you have scars or not. Let's ensure your journey with sunlight is a sun-kissed one, but with all the right precautions in place!

The Bottom Line

Your scars are just part of the unique journey that's made you who you are today. Embrace every inch of your beautiful self, because we do! And if you ever feel like giving your scars a little extra love, we've got your back. Remember, it's all about balance—controlled sun exposure and proper protection. While it can help in certain cases by darkening the skin around scars, it can also worsen scar visibility if not approached with caution. Controlled exposure to sunlight, along with proper sun protection measures, can be beneficial for scar appearance. Consider taking advantage of Tropic Labs' Smart Screen Mineral Tanning Sunscreen to safeguard your skin during sun exposure and our Over Exposed after-sun concentrate, which targets redness and irritation instantly. By striking the right balance, you can optimize sunlight's potential to improve the appearance of scars while nurturing and protecting your skin. When it comes to scars and sunlight, caution and care are key.