Scar Massage
Important information:
Massaging a scar keeps the skin moveable and helps to flatten and soften the scar. Without scar massage, the skin will become thick and raised, which can prevent your child from moving freely. The scar will also be more noticeable. It can take 1-2 years for a scar to flatten and fade in color. Massage the scar at least once each day or more often as your therapist has recommended. Follow their instructions for how long to massage.
Patient instructions:
Choose from the following:
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Scent-free lotion or creams
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Alcohol-free lotion or creams
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Cold pressed oils, like olive oil
Rub lotion, cream, or oil onto the scar. The area may be sensitive to touch but should improve over time. Apply pressure as directed by the therapist or as tolerated by the patient. Move through each of the techniques below:
Circles
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Use two fingers or the thumb, to make small circles over the length of the scar and the skin around the scar.
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Back and forth and up and down
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Use two fingers from one hand and two fingers from the other hand. Move them back and forth and up and down across the scar in different directions. Modify as directed by the therapist.
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Rolling
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Gently roll the scar between the thumb and first two fingers along the length of the scar. This technique can help prevent the scar from adhering to the soft tissue underneath the scar.
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Your therapist may suggest using a vibrating handheld massager. The vibration can go deeper into the skin than with surface massage.
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Use SPF 30 or above to protect the scar from the sun. It is especially sensitive to the sun for the first 1-2 years after healing.
If you have questions, please contact your therapist.
Reviewed November 2025 by Colleen Macner Allen, PT, DPT