As a dual posterior hip replacement recipient, I have two surgical scars...they are lengthy and very deep scars. Scar tissue is very dense, fibrous, and tends to feel tight and itchy. A scar has no hair follicles and no sweat glands which is why they appear and feel so different than the skin they replace. The appearance and texture of scars can improve with simple self-care. In chapter 5 of my book, Butternut to Bionic, I describe a technique called "cross-fiber friction" and a scar care product that I have used for over 8 years. My scars are smooth and close in color to my natural skin tone. Learn more in this excerpt from page 90 of my book:
"Per my doctor's recommendation, I used a product called Bio-Oil, massaging it into my scar morning and night using a technique called cross-fiber friction. Basically, you massage against the grain of the muscle in a circular motion helping to loosen, soften, and gently stretch the tissue. If you're a cook who prepares meat for the grill, you may have rubbed salt and spices into a roast or steak. The goal is to tenderize the meat by softening and stretching the tissue. Massaging your surgical scar is much the same, this technique can minimize the puckering and dimpled appearance as well. Even an older scar can benefit from this care. Our skin is living, breathing tissue made up of cells that regenerate daily. Massage sloughs off dead skin, brings blood and nutrients to the surface, and improves the health of our skin."
Want more resources, tips, and advice? Visit Butternut to Bionic, my Anderson Therapeutics website, or my author page on Amazon.
Be Well! ~Tiffany Anderson, LMT, RMT, BS, CHES
