Is My Skin Healing Properly After an Abrasion? Expert Advice Needed

Can I ask the doctor if this abrasion will heal like this?

I have a question regarding an incident that occurred around June 27.
I fell off my bike and sustained abrasions on two areas of my face, which only affected the superficial layers of the skin and did not reach the pigment layer.
After three treatments with a plastic surgeon, I met a head nurse who, five days post-injury, noticed that the wounds were producing a lot of yellow discharge that could not be cleaned off after using the physician-prescribed tetracycline open treatment.
He then started applying sulfasil for closed treatment daily.
After a week of using the ointment, the yellow discharge indeed disappeared with the dressing changes.
About two weeks after the fall, new pink granulation tissue began to form in the wounds.
The head nurse then advised us to use 100% petroleum jelly for treatment, applying it three times a day and cleaning with an additive-free ivory soap.
According to the nurse, there should be a noticeable color change after a week, but now another week has passed (three weeks post-injury), and the color remains as pink granulation tissue.
I would like to ask the physician if continuing to use petroleum jelly is truly effective in this situation.
Thank you for your guidance.

A Cun, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/07/18

Dr. Zheng Lizhen reply Dermatology

Hello! When a wound has just healed, there are more newly formed blood vessels, which is why it appears pink.
It typically takes about three to six months for this color to gradually fade.
Using petroleum jelly to protect the new skin is a good choice, and it's best to also apply sunscreen to help the color fade more quickly.
Best wishes for health from Dr.
Cheng Li-Chen, Dermatology Department, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2003/07/18

More Info

When dealing with skin healing after an abrasion, especially on sensitive areas like the face, it's essential to follow a structured approach to ensure proper recovery. Based on your description, it sounds like you have been receiving appropriate care, but there are a few points to consider regarding the healing process and the use of products like Vaseline.

Firstly, the healing of abrasions typically goes through several stages. Initially, after an injury, the body responds with inflammation, which is a natural part of the healing process. This is followed by the proliferation phase, where new tissue forms, and finally, the remodeling phase, which can last for months to years. The pinkish color of the new skin you are observing is a good sign; it indicates that new blood vessels are forming and that the area is healing.

The use of topical treatments like Vaseline (petroleum jelly) is beneficial during the healing process. It acts as a barrier, preventing moisture loss and protecting the area from external irritants. Keeping the wound moist can promote faster healing and reduce the risk of scarring. However, it’s important to apply it correctly. Ensure that the area is clean before applying Vaseline, and avoid using it on any areas that are still oozing or have open wounds, as this could trap bacteria and lead to infection.

Regarding the yellow discharge you mentioned, this could have been a sign of exudate, which is common in the healing process. The fact that it has cleared up with the use of sulfasil (a topical antimicrobial) suggests that your wound was likely managing well under the care of your healthcare providers.
As for the duration of the pink skin, it is not unusual for the healing process to take longer than expected. The color change from pink to a more normal skin tone can vary significantly from person to person, influenced by factors such as age, overall health, and the depth of the abrasion. If the area remains pink for an extended period, it may indicate that the skin is still in the healing phase, and it may take additional time to mature.

If you are concerned about the healing process or if you notice any signs of infection (such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, or pus), it is crucial to consult with your healthcare provider. They may recommend additional treatments or adjustments to your current regimen.
In summary, using Vaseline as directed is likely beneficial for your healing process. Continue to monitor the area for any changes, and maintain communication with your healthcare provider to ensure that your skin is healing properly. Patience is key, as skin healing can be a slow process, but with proper care, you should see improvements over time.

Similar Q&A

Managing Wound Healing After a Motorcycle Accident: Tips and Concerns

Hello Doctor, I had a motorcycle accident on July 23, and since then, I have severe abrasions on my right foot with four wounds. I went to the hospital for a diagnosis, and the doctor assessed the abrasions on my right foot as equivalent to a second-degree burn. Currently, there ...

Dr. Li Zhonghuai reply Surgery
Hello! High-speed grinding wounds are similar to burns and may also have issues with contractures. You can go to a rehabilitation clinic for therapy. Once the wound has healed and the skin has grown over, the tissue will not increase further. The remaining concern is to reduce sc...

How to Care for a Large Knee Abrasion After an Accident?

Last Friday, I suffered a severe abrasion on my knee due to a car accident (self-fall), about the size of a baseball! Initially, I had it bandaged at a clinic (they used gauze), but it wasn't very effective, and it kept leaking serous fluid. Later, I went to a pharmacy and b...

Dr. Lü Mingchuan reply Plastic Surgery
You can visit the hospital for a consultation.

Post-Accident Wound Care: Understanding Healing and Complications

Hello, I would like to consult a doctor. I had an injury from a fall that caused wounds on my knee and the back of my hand. After undergoing debridement and dressing changes, and applying artificial skin for a month, there has been no bleeding. However, it has been three months, ...

Dr. Peng Xianwen reply Surgery
Hello Mr. Han: It is keloid and scar tissue. Director Peng Hsien-Wen, General Surgery, Nantou Hospital.

Understanding Cellulitis: Treatment and Recovery After an Injury

Hello Doctor, I was in a car accident last Tuesday (12/13) and have abrasions near my ankle... there are two wounds about 2x3 inches in size. I thought I could just apply some ointment and it would heal, but the next day it became red, swollen, and painful. After seeing a dermato...

Dr. Huang Junxiong reply Surgery
Hello: Without seeing your wound in person, I cannot definitively determine what the issue might be. I recommend that you seek treatment at a plastic surgery department or a hospital with a specialized trauma surgery unit. Wishing you good health!