Scar massage skin folding and splitting up

Scar massage

Scar massage has been shown to help scars become flatter and softer. It can also improve symptoms like pain, sensitivity and itch. This happens because the massage process affects the way that the skin cells behave and helps to reduce the scarring.

There are lots of types of scar massage. Your child’s therapist will show you the best type of massage for your child’s scar.

Top tips

• All scar massage should be done slowly and with gentle pressure. It should not cause pain or rub the skin.
• A gentle non-perfumed moisturiser should be used to help moisturise the scar and prevent dryness.
• Your child’s nurses will have given you a suitable cream.
• You should massage the scar at least 3 times a day.

Skin folding

This massage is useful for scars that feel tight or do not move away from the soft tissue around them. Start by putting your thumbs and index fingers (pointers) at each end of the scar. Gently pinch the scar between your thumbs and fingers to make a fold in the skin.

Splitting up

Once you have the scar lifted, gently move your hands in different directions to help break down the collagen in the scar. Make sure you keep the scar pinched between your fingers and don’t rub over the skin. Work your fingers along the scar, moving your hands in different directions.

These types of massage should only be done when the scar is over 6 months old.