My Stitches Itch!

[KnottedYet]

We generally tell folks to leave the incision/cut alone until there is no more open skin. (after the steri-strips fall off, for sure!) Unless you've got complicating factors, your body is the best expert and has the best method of healing the juicy new injuries. Leave it to it's own devices.

After you have a nice fresh real scar (no ooozy bits or thin rip-able pink bits) use whatever you like best, but we warn folks NOT to use a product containing petroleum jelly or mineral oil or other petroleum derivative, as they can clog up the new skin and also be very drying. (my rule of thumb is "if you wouldn't eat it, don't put it on the new scar")

When the scar has matured a bit you can safely use petroleum stuff, silicone, scar release/massage, etc.

[bikerz]

Just a cautionary note (and seconding Knot's comment above)- I think it is best to put the vitamin E (cream or oil) on after the scar is completely closed, so you don't run the risk of infection. I know of someone who did get an infection from applying vitamin E oil before the scar had completely healed.

I hope it feels better soon!

[Veronica]

Thanks ladies! It's coming along.

I ordered one of those SPF jerseys so I can cover it up. Thom says, "What's wrong with a band aid?" I reply, " I already have funny enough tan lines."

My shoulders have already gotten a little darker than I'd like. Even with copious amounts of sunscreen, so covering more of me up is probably not a bad thing.

V.