Scars form as the body’s natural response to healing injured or damaged skin, creating fibrous tissue where normal skin once existed. They can result from accidents, diseases, or surgical procedures. While most scars fade over time, they typically do not disappear entirely. Their interaction with sun exposure is a common concern, as it significantly influences their appearance and healing.
Why Scars Are Vulnerable to Sunburn
Scar tissue possesses distinct characteristics that make it more susceptible to sun damage compared to uninjured skin. New scar tissue often lacks melanin, the pigment responsible for protecting skin from ultraviolet (UV) radiation by absorbing it. This absence of melanin leaves the scar with reduced natural defense against the sun’s harmful rays, making it highly vulnerable to burning.
The collagen structure within scar tissue also differs from that of healthy skin. While normal skin has collagen fibers arranged in a random, basketweave pattern, scar tissue features collagen fibers that are more densely packed and aligned in parallel. This altered organization can affect the scar’s ability to withstand UV light. Additionally, the epidermal layers covering new scars can be thinner and more fragile, offering less inherent protection.
Immediate Effects of Sunburn on Scars
When scar tissue is exposed to excessive UV radiation, it can quickly develop a sunburn, often with more pronounced reactions than on surrounding healthy skin. Increased redness is an immediate effect, as the delicate scar tissue becomes inflamed. This inflammation can be accompanied by pain and tenderness.
Sunburn on a scar can also lead to blistering, where fluid-filled sacs form on the skin’s surface. These blisters indicate a more severe burn and can increase the risk of infection if they break. Some individuals may also experience itching in the sunburned scar, adding to the discomfort.
Long-Term Consequences and Risks
Repeated or severe sunburns on scars can lead to lasting impacts on their appearance and overall health. One consequence is permanent discoloration, manifesting as hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation. Hyperpigmentation makes the scar noticeably darker than surrounding skin due to excess melanin production. Conversely, hypopigmentation causes the scar to appear lighter, as scar tissue may not tan like normal skin.
Sun exposure can also alter the scar’s texture, potentially leading to thickening, hardening, or increased visibility. Sun damage can delay the scar’s healing process, prolonging its sensitive state. In some cases, chronic sun-damaged or repeatedly sunburned scar tissue carries an elevated risk of developing skin cancer, such as squamous cell carcinoma. This can appear as a new sore or raised area on an old scar or an unhealing sore.
Protecting Scars and Post-Sunburn Care
Protecting scars from sun exposure is important for optimal healing and appearance. Consistent use of broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher is recommended. Apply it generously to the scar and surrounding skin 15 minutes before sun exposure, reapplying every two hours or more frequently if swimming or sweating. Mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are often preferred as they sit on the skin’s surface, providing a gentler option for sensitive scar tissue.
Protective clothing is another effective strategy, especially for new scars. Tightly woven fabrics, dark colors, and clothing with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating of 50+ offer excellent protection. Seeking shade, particularly during peak sun hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., also helps minimize UV exposure. For facial scars, a wide-brimmed hat can provide additional shade.
If a scar does get sunburned, immediate care can alleviate symptoms and support healing. Cool the affected area with cool compresses or a cool bath to reduce heat and inflammation. Apply soothing products like aloe vera gel or a gentle moisturizer for hydration and comfort. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can manage pain and inflammation.
Avoid popping any blisters that form, as this can increase the risk of infection. Seek medical attention if the sunburn is severe, involves large blisters, or shows signs of infection like increasing pain, redness, swelling, or pus.