Addressing New Scars and Their Care
Hello! I am a 14-year-old male and recently, I've noticed several large scars forming on my shoulders over the past few months. I was considering visiting my family physician, but I wanted to first ascertain if this issue is serious. My sister mentioned that she had similar scars from her swimming days. Previously, when I was evaluated for similar concerns, some doctors seemed to think it was a significant issue. However, after undergoing a long-awaited blood test, they concluded that everything was fine, but now I am experiencing different scars. It’s possible that these marks are the result of my frequent swimming and playing badminton, particularly as they’re localized to my right side, which is my dominant side. I would like to know effective treatments that could help these scars either heal properly or be concealed.
Answers (1)
7/27/2025, 2:01:37 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're dealing with new scars on your shoulders, which can arise from various activities, especially given your swimming and badminton practice. While scars are often harmless, understanding how to care for them is important for both healing and aesthetics.
Explanation
Scars form as part of the healing process after skin injuries. They can result from various causes, including friction, pressure, or even skin conditions. The fact that they're noticeable and localized on your dominant side suggests they could be from the physical activities you're engaged in. It is also common for athletes and active individuals to develop scars or skin changes over time.
Next Steps
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Moisturizing: Start applying a gentle moisturizer to the scars regularly. Keeping the skin hydrated can help improve the texture and appearance of scars over time. Products with ingredients like vitamin E or aloe vera are often recommended.
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Sun Protection: If the scars are exposed to sunlight, use sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) when swimming or out during the day. UV rays can darken scars and make them more noticeable.
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Gentle Touch: Avoid picking at or irritating the scars. This can lead to more scarring or infection.
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Scar Treatments: Consider over-the-counter topical treatments designed for scars, such as silicone gel sheets or scar creams. These can help reduce the visibility of scars as they mature.
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Monitor Changes: Keep an eye on the scars. If they seem to be getting worse, or if you experience pain, itching, or other symptoms, revisit the idea of consulting a dermatologist.
When to Seek Further Care
If the scars do not improve with home care over the next few months, or if you notice any unusual changes (such as redness, swelling, or discharge), seeking advice from a healthcare provider, like a dermatologist, would be beneficial. They can recommend more specialized treatments, such as laser therapy or other advanced options, if needed.
It's great that you're proactive about your skin health, and taking these steps should help you manage and improve the appearance of your scars. Let me know if you need further clarification or more specific advice!
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