Acne / Scar Treatment Aftercare Instructions
A day-by-day recovery guide for acne / scar treatment: what to expect, how to care for yourself, and when to call. Free to read and print.
What to expect
Wound Healing Tips
- •Moist wounds heal faster than dry wounds
- •Petroleum jelly is the gold standard for wound healing
- •Avoid picking scabs; they protect healing tissue underneath
Sun Protection is Critical
- •UV exposure on healing skin causes permanent discoloration
- •Protect the area for at least 6-12 months
- •SPF 30+ broad-spectrum, reapply every 2 hours outdoors
Acne / Scar Treatment recovery, day by day
Wound Care
- Keep bandage clean and dry for 24 hours
- Redness and tenderness at the site are expected
- Take prescribed pain medication if needed, usually OTC is sufficient
- Keep the area elevated if on a limb
Bandage Care
- Do not get the wound wet for 24 hours
- A small amount of blood-tinged drainage is normal
- Avoid alcohol for 24-48 hours, thins blood, increases bleeding risk
Daily Wound Care
- Clean wound gently with soap and water once daily
- Apply petroleum jelly, Vaseline and a clean bandage daily
- Follow the personalized medication schedule from your procedure team and prescribing clinician. Contact them before making any medication changes.
- Moisturize as directed
Sun Protection
- Keep the treated area out of direct sunlight
- SPF 30+ sunscreen once the wound has closed, not on open wounds
- Sun exposure increases scarring and pigmentation changes
- Wear protective clothing or bandages when outdoors
Healing & Scar Care
- Wound should be closed and forming a scar
- Scars continue to mature for 6-12 months, initially red/pink, gradually fading
- Silicone scar sheets or gel can help minimize scarring, start after wound fully closes
- Attend follow-up for wound check and biopsy results if applicable
When to call your provider or 911
- •Call your care team today if you notice: Increasing redness, warmth, or swelling around the wound, spreading
- •Call your care team today if you notice: Pus or foul-smelling discharge
- •Call your care team today if you notice: Red streaks extending from the wound
- •Call your care team today if you notice: Fever above 101°F
- •Call your care team today if you notice: Stitches opening or wound edges separating
- •Call your care team today if you notice: Bleeding that doesn't stop with 15 minutes of firm pressure
When in doubt, call your clinic. For a medical emergency, call 911.
Recovery milestones
- Day 1
Bandage Removal
Remove initial dressing and begin daily wound care
- Day 7
Wound Closing
Wound is usually closing by now, with new skin forming
- Day 14
Follow-Up
Assess healing and discuss further treatment if needed
- Day 14
Ongoing Recovery Review
Review any remaining symptoms or restrictions with the care team before changing your routine.
For clinics
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