Expert Advice on Sunscreens for Healing Scars and Active Young Athletes
Summer is officially here, and with it comes the excitement of outdoor youth sports! As young athletes gear up for a season filled with outdoor activities, it's important to consider the care required for those who may be recovering from surgery. If you or your child athlete are planning on having surgery this summer, understanding the effects of sun exposure on surgical incisions is crucial not only for cosmetic reasons but also for the healing of the incision site itself!
Healing Phases of Incision Sites and Sun Exposure
The skin's healing process after surgery involves three phases: the inflammation phase, the proliferation phase, and the remodeling phase.
Post-Surgical Inflammation Phase
The inflammation phase occurs within the first 3-5 days post-surgery, where the body responds with vasoconstriction and an increase in platelets to jumpstart wound healing. During this time, young athletes should limit their time in the sun to prevent irritation and additional swelling.
Post-Surgical Proliferation Phase
Next comes the proliferation phase, which spans approximately 6-15 days following surgery. This is when the body starts developing new blood vessels and type III collagen essential for forming new tissue. For youth engaged in summer sports, it's vital to protect these developing tissues from the sun's harsh rays using bandages to ensure proper healing and prevent increased scar formation in their recovery, leading to hyperpigmentation. Adequate protection allows kids to safely be in the sunlight.
Post-Surgical Remodeling Phase
Early intervention and surgical scar care are paramount, especially during the first 3 months when the remodeling phase is at its peak. This phase involves cross-linking type 1 collagen fibers & restoring normal skin composition which can last up to a year. At this stage, the tissue is highly susceptible to damage from ultraviolet radiation from the sun. Since collagen is key to healing, sun exposure that breaks down collagen can significantly slow down the recovery process, potentially keeping young athletes off the field longer.
Effects of Sun Exposure on Scars
Moreover, prolonged sun exposure can lead to hyperpigmentation, changes in the collagen matrix of the skin, increased thickness of the scar, and discoloration. By protecting and letting scars fully heal, the scars will be less visible and less calcified, boosting confidence and self-esteem. To combat these issues, it's imperative to minimize sun exposure to the scar with protective clothing and sunscreen. Youth sports programs should encourage this practice and possibly schedule events to avoid peak sun hours when UV radiation is most intense.
Sunscreen Protection for Summer Sports
For the best protection during summer sports, select a sunscreen of at least 30 SPF that is waterproof and broad-spectrum, safeguarding against both UVB and UVA radiation. Coaches and parents should remind young athletes to reapply sunscreen regularly, especially after sweating or swimming, to maintain effective protection throughout their activities. As we embrace the joys of summer and youth sports, let's not overlook the importance of diligent post-surgical care. By protecting surgical incisions from the sun, young athletes can heal properly and return to the sports they love with confidence and strength. Thank you to Lauren Waggoner, PT, DPT, OMT-C from OrthoCarolina's Matthews Physical & Hand Therapy for providing this blog information!
Recap: Post-Op Scar Sun Care
Benefits of Proper Sun Care for Scars:
- Helps prevent scar darkening
- Reduces the chance of long-term discoloration
- Minimizes potential inflammation from UV rays
- Aids in the overall healing process
Post-Op Sun Exposure Timeline:
- 0-5 Days Post-Op:
- Absolutely no sun exposure on the scar.
- 6-15 Days Post-Op:
- Limited sun exposure with protective clothing or a bandage over the scar.
- After 15 Days Post-Op:
- Begin to apply sunscreen specifically designed for scars.
Recommended Sunscreen:
- Opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, especially with Zinc as a main ingredient.
- Look for products labeled 'for sensitive skin' or 'non-comedogenic'.
- Reapply every two hours if exposed to the sun.
Always follow your doctor's advice for post-operative care.
Sources:
- Commander SJ, Chamata E, Cox J, Dickey RM, Lee EI. Update on Postsurgical Scar Management. Semin Plast Surg.
- 2016 Aug;30(3):122-8. doi: 10.1055/s-0036-1584824. PMID: 27478420; PMCID: PMC4961501.
- Son D, Harijan A. Overview of surgical scar prevention and management. J Korean Med Sci. 2014 Jun;29(6):751-7.
- doi: 10.3346/jkms.2014.29.6.751. Epub 2014 May 30. PMID: 24932073; PMCID: PMC4055805.
- Article by Monica Gonzalez: https://www.synergyplasticsurgery.com/blog/fun-in-the-sun-after-surgery-heres-what-you-need-to-know/
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This information is provided as an educational service and is not intended to serve as medical advice. If you are seeking specific orthopedic advice or assistance, please consult with your OrthoCarolina physician or locate one in your area through OrthoCarolina’s website at www.OrthoCarolina.com.
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