Cesarean section scars: Do's and Don'ts!

A Caesarean section is a major procedure that requires careful aftercare. After the birth, as a new mother, you want to concentrate on your baby, enjoy the closeness and savor the first moments. But proper care of the Caesarean section scar is an essential part of the healing process and should not be neglected.

At APRICOT we understand how limited time for self-care can be. That's why it's important to have a simple and effective method to treat your C-section scar so you can fully focus on your newborn.

Scar care after a Caesarean section

How to properly care for a scar from the beginning can be deduced from the steps of a problem-free scar treatment:

• After a cesarean section, the wound is closed medically correctly and your body begins to heal immediately .
• In the first few days, the fresh Caesarean section scar is very well supplied with blood and red. Blood clotting begins, the immune system is activated and invading germs are fought. This natural healing process forms the basis for successful wound healing .
• The tissue structure changes during wound healing. From the 4th day onwards, new tissue forms, the wound becomes visibly smaller and firmer. Solid collagen fibres form, the high blood flow decreases, the scar becomes paler. The scar on the stomach is no longer as elastic and retains less moisture than the surrounding skin tissue.
• The wound is closed, the stitches are removed, and scar care after the cesarean section can begin.

Common problems with the Caesarean section scar and how to solve them

Sometimes complications can arise during the healing of a Caesarean scar . If your Caesarean scar is infected, you should seek medical advice immediately. Signs of infection include redness, swelling and persistent pain. Another common problem is that the Caesarean scar itches or burns . These are normal symptoms of healing, but special creams or silicone patches can help to relieve the discomfort. You can further improve the appearance of the scar by regularly using scar care products .

Would you like to no longer be able to feel the cesarean section scar on your stomach?

Scar care for a Caesarean section scar is no different from scar treatment for other scars. It is important to support the healing process from the beginning with effective active ingredients. This may not make a scar disappear completely, but it can have a decisive influence on its appearance. The most important remodeling processes take place in the first few months. Older scars do change, but active ingredients are simply no longer processed as intensively by the skin.

Caring for a Caesarean section scar: Silicone gel vs. silicone plaster – which is better?

Silicone gel is a popular choice for scar care because it is flexible and easy to use. You apply it after every shower, let it dry and then you can get dressed again. The gel forms a thin protective layer that retains moisture and promotes healing. However, daily application requires time and patience, which is not always easy to achieve in the stressful everyday life with a newborn.

Silicone plasters for scars are available in different versions - they can be thin and intended for single use or thicker and reusable, like a silicone pad. Thin silicone plasters are easy to use, but have the disadvantage that they are used up quickly and have to be replaced regularly. This can be expensive in the long run and is less sustainable. In addition, removing them can be uncomfortable for sensitive skin.

Thick, reusable silicone plasters, on the other hand, have the advantage that they last longer and are therefore more cost-effective. Both variants - whether thin or thick pads - form a protective layer over the surface of the skin, improve the appearance of scars, reduce redness and smooth the skin's feel. The silicone plasters against scars are used after the wound has completely healed to relieve scar discomfort and optically correct the scar. They keep moisture in the skin and promote regeneration, which makes the skin more elastic and supple.

The simplest is a silicone pad, which can be quickly applied, quickly removed and reused for up to two weeks. That is why we use silicone as a carrier material in scar care.

A scar pad for the wound healing phase – magical ingredient organic aloe vera

From the 4th day onwards, new tissue forms on the Caesarean section scar, the wound becomes visibly smaller and firmer. As soon as the stitches are removed and the wound is closed, you should support your skin in producing new skin tissue. This speeds up the healing process. The skin becomes smoother and softer. Hypertrophic scars can also be better cared for this way.

What makes the scar pads from APRICOT-beauty so special and what sets the pads apart from other products is the active ingredient aloe vera in the silicone. Everyone knows aloe vera in skin care, it has been included in many products for a long time. So why not use it for even better scar treatment? Aloe vera is a perfect match for effective scar care because it is a completely natural active ingredient. Caesarean section scars are completely normal scars and do not need any chemicals to heal smoothly and supplely.

Optimal use of silicone pads for the cesarean section scar

• As soon as the wound is completely closed and dry and the stitches have been removed , you can start using silicone plasters (silicone pads). This process can take different amounts of time for each person, so if in doubt, ask your doctor when you should start.
• Remove the scar pad with aloe vera from the protective film and place it on the scar
• When taking care of your body, remove the silicone pad, clean it briefly under running water and lay it down to dry. You don't have to throw the silicone pad away, it is reusable !
• Apply silicone pads as often and as long as possible over a period of several weeks. Organic aloe vera also supports wound healing
• The only restriction: your doctor advises against it because of problems with wound healing, you are allergic to silicone, the stitches have not yet been removed

Your Caesarean section scar will be more sensitive at first, you will feel every tension in your skin. You also need a suitable position when breastfeeding, where the baby is not lying directly on the scar. Here the silicone pad provides an additional protective shield against pressure, you and your baby have more freedom. The silicone pad is soft and warm, clothing cannot irritate the skin under the pad or chafe the wound. Many advantages are combined in a single pad. You will definitely feel safer with a well-cared-for scar.

The most important thing now is that you can concentrate 100% on your baby and don't have to worry about a Caesarean section scar . Just let it heal itself, just add effective scar care with silicone pads with highly effective organic aloe vera.

Have fun cuddling with your baby. Treat yourself to extra relaxation and extra care.

FAQs on scar care after a Caesarean section

How should I care for a fresh cesarean section scar?

A fresh Caesarean section scar requires particularly gentle care. It is important to keep the scar clean and dry to avoid infections. Avoid strenuous physical activity and wear loose clothing that does not rub on the scar.

What should I do if my cesarean section scar is inflamed?

If your cesarean section scar looks inflamed, you should see a doctor immediately. Signs of inflammation can include redness, swelling, warmth and pain. Timely medical treatment is crucial to avoid complications.

How long does cesarean section healing take?

Healing after a Caesarean section occurs in several phases. The superficial scar often heals after about three weeks, but complete healing of the deeper tissue layers can take up to a year.

What can I do if my cesarean section scar burns?

Burning in the cesarean section scar may occur during healing and is often normal. However, if the burning is severe or persists for a long time, it is advisable to consult a doctor to rule out possible complications.

What does a cesarean section scar look like after 1 year?

After one year, the Caesarean section scar should be noticeably faded and flat. With good care, the scar is often barely visible, but depending on the skin type and healing process, it can still be easily noticeable.

Why does my cesarean scar itch?

Itching in the cesarean scar is a normal sign of healing and often occurs as the skin heals and reforms. Avoid picking at the scar and use moisturizing creams instead to help relieve itching.

How can I promote cesarean healing?

You can promote C-section healing by caring for your scar regularly, keeping it clean and dry, and eating a balanced diet. Using silicone dressings can also be helpful to keep the scar supple and promote healing.

When should you apply silicone patches to the scar?

Once your wound is completely closed and the stitches are removed, it is time to start using silicone scar care patches. These patches will aid the healing process and help improve the appearance of the scar.