Post-Surgery Scars: Do Beauty Tapes Help and Hair Impact?

Postoperative scars

Hello Doctor: I had surgery to remove a lipoma under my armpit, and I noticed that there is already a raised scar right after the stitches were removed.
Is it still effective for me to use silicone tape now? Will underarm hair affect the effectiveness of the silicone tape? Thank you for answering my questions.

Iris, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/10/11

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

It can be applied; it is recommended to start using scar ointment after 2-4 weeks.

Reply Date: 2016/10/11

More Info

When it comes to post-surgery scars, particularly after a procedure like the excision of a cyst, the use of beauty tapes can indeed be beneficial. Beauty tapes, often referred to as silicone gel sheets or scar tapes, are designed to help flatten and soften scars over time. They work by providing a moist environment that promotes healing and can help reduce the appearance of hypertrophic scars or keloids, which are raised scars that can develop after surgery.

In your case, since you mentioned that your scar is already raised after the stitches were removed, applying beauty tape may still be effective. The key is to start using it as soon as the wound has fully healed and there are no open areas. Typically, it is recommended to use these tapes for several hours a day, and some people find that wearing them overnight can enhance their effectiveness.

Regarding your concern about underarm hair affecting the efficacy of the beauty tape, it is generally not a significant issue. The tape adheres to the skin, and as long as the area is clean and dry, it should work effectively regardless of hair presence. However, if the hair is long or coarse, it might be a good idea to trim it to ensure better adhesion and comfort. Just be cautious not to irritate the scar area while trimming.

It's also important to note that while beauty tapes can help with the appearance of scars, they are not a miracle solution. Consistent use over a period of time is necessary to see noticeable improvements. Additionally, combining the use of beauty tapes with other scar management strategies, such as moisturizing the area and protecting it from sun exposure, can further enhance results.

In terms of hair impact, the removal of a cyst in the underarm area typically does not directly affect hair growth. However, if the surgery has caused trauma to the hair follicles in that region, there might be temporary changes in hair growth patterns. In most cases, hair should grow back normally unless there was significant damage to the follicles. If you notice any unusual changes in hair growth or if you have concerns about hair loss in that area, it would be advisable to consult with a dermatologist or a healthcare professional.

In summary, using beauty tapes on your post-surgery scar can be beneficial, and the presence of underarm hair should not significantly hinder their effectiveness. Consistent application and care will yield the best results. If you have any further concerns about your scar or hair growth, seeking professional advice is always a good approach.

Similar Q&A

Post-Stitch Scar Care: Silicone Sheets vs. Beauty Tape

Two weeks ago, I had a car accident and during the stitch removal, the doctor advised me to use cosmetic tape for three months, but only after one week of removing the stitches. The wound is raised; should I use silicone sheets or continue using the cosmetic tape?

Dr. Lu Daokuan reply Plastic Surgery
Silicone sheets and artificial skin are both effective; however, beauty tape is less effective. Use them for up to 6 months, and if you are not satisfied, consult a plastic surgeon.

Understanding Recovery from Surgical Scars: When to Seek Help

Hello: Two months ago, I had a small surgery on my back to remove a fibroma, and I received about eight to nine stitches (it looked like a centipede). In February of this year, after the stitches were removed, I applied tape for about another month. Now I have stopped using the t...

Dr. Zheng Lizhen reply Dermatology
After two months, the wound should have healed, and now the concern is about the scar. You can continue to use silicone tape, but there is no need for further medication or disinfection. If you are not satisfied with the scar in the future, you can consider scar revision treatmen...

Beauty Gels vs. Silicone Strips: Which is Better for Scar Healing?

Hello Dr. Lu: I would like to ask which is better for surgical scars, beauty gel or silicone tape, in order to make them less noticeable. Thank you.

Dr. Lu Daokuan reply Plastic Surgery
Beauty gels provide tension to the wound, making it less likely for scars to widen, while silicone adds compressive force. Silicone is more effective but is less convenient to use and tends to be more expensive.

Will My Daughter's Facial Injury Leave Scars? Expert Insights on Cosmetic Surgery

I have a 5-year-old daughter who sustained an injury to her face, resulting in four stitches between her eyebrows, above her nose. I am very worried and wonder if she will be able to undergo cosmetic procedures in the future to make the scar less noticeable.

Dr. Luo Qihua reply Plastic Surgery
If the wound is a clean cut from a sharp object, the scar will generally heal better after suturing. In contrast, wounds from blunt trauma or heavy object impacts tend to be less even, resulting in scars that are not as favorable as those from clean cuts. Regardless of the cause,...