By Youlie Warda | Physiotherapist at KINETIKA Physiotherapy Dubai
Healing doesn’t stop when the wound closes. It continues quietly under the skin for weeks and even months. Daily care at home plays a huge role in how your scar looks, feels, and moves later on. Just like brushing your teeth keeps your gums healthy, regular scar massage keeps tissues flexible and prevents them from sticking together.
Make Sure the Scar Is Ready
Before touching the scar, check that it’s completely healed:
- The wound should be closed and dry, with no scabs or open spots.
- There should be no redness, oozing, or pain that suggests infection.
If you’re unsure, ask your doctor or physiotherapist before starting any massage.
Start Gently Around the Scar First
To perform scar mobilization at home, wash your hands first and apply gentle pressure to the scar with your fingertips. You can use natural oil or unscented cream to reduce friction.
In the first days, don’t go directly over the scar line. Begin by placing two fingers beside the scar and move the skin in small circles.
Work around the whole scar for one to two minutes, two or three times a day.
If that feels comfortable, you can gradually move closer to the scar line itself.
Progress to Direct Scar Mobilization
Once your skin tolerates gentle touch, you can start working on the scar. Use various techniques like making small circles, moving up-and-down and side-to-side across the scar.
Each session should last about 5–10 minutes. Mild tenderness or pulling is fine; sharp pain means stop and lighten the pressure.
Gradually increase pressure by making small circles and pinching/rolling motions with mild pressure.
When to Seek Professional Help
If your scar feels tight, painful, hypersensitive, or limits movement, it may need extra care. Daily home care is important, but at KINETIKA, a trained physiotherapist can safely work through deeper layers and restore natural tissue mobility.
