Post-Injury Care for Deep Skin Wounds: Tips for Healing and Scar Prevention

On January 28, I was involved in a car accident and sustained multiple abrasions, with the most severe injury being to my little finger, which affected the dermis layer?

Hello, Dr.
Wu.
The wound currently seems to have healed: https://upload.cc/i1/2023/02/10/U8BNuT.jpg.
During the dressing change today, when I cleaned the wound with saline, the scab came off quite easily.
Initially, it seemed that the little finger was injured quite deeply, affecting the dermis.
I have a few questions:
1.
Given the current recovery stage, is it safe to directly expose the wound to water and use various products like facial cleansers, shampoos, body washes, and hand soaps? P.S.
What about alcohol and hand sanitizers?
2.
Although it seems to be healing, the area around the joint feels a bit tight when I move it, and there is still some pain (about a 0.5 on a scale of 10).
Should I be moving it frequently? During the dressing period, it was wrapped tightly, so I didn't move the little finger joint much.
3.
How can I care for it to prevent scarring? Are there specific products I should apply? Since it’s winter and I live in Tamsui, which is relatively cold, I have the heater on.
Will this dryness affect the healing process?

Mr. Chen, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/02/10

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

Your question can only be answered after a proper examination.
It is recommended to seek medical advice from a nearby healthcare provider to receive accurate recommendations.

Reply Date: 2023/02/10

More Info

Post-injury care for deep skin wounds is crucial for promoting healing and minimizing scarring. Based on your description, it sounds like you are in the recovery phase after a significant injury to your finger, which may have involved damage to the dermis. Here are some comprehensive tips to help you navigate this healing process effectively.

1. Cleansing the Wound
Since your wound appears to be healing, you can start to gently cleanse it with mild soap and water. However, avoid using harsh products like alcohol or hand sanitizers directly on the wound, as these can irritate the healing tissue. Instead, opt for a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser. When washing, be careful not to scrub the area too hard, especially if there are scabs or sensitive skin.

2. Moisture Management
Keeping the wound moist is essential for healing. While it’s important to avoid soaking the wound in water, you can use a thin layer of a non-stick dressing or a specialized wound gel to maintain moisture. If you notice that the area becomes dry, consider applying a thin layer of a healing ointment, such as petroleum jelly or a silicone-based gel, which can help prevent scarring.

3. Movement and Rehabilitation
Since your injury is on a joint, gentle movement is important to prevent stiffness. Start with light exercises to maintain mobility in your finger. Gradually increase the range of motion as tolerated. If you experience pain, it’s essential to listen to your body and not push too hard. Regular movement can help improve blood circulation to the area, which is beneficial for healing.

4. Scar Prevention
To minimize scarring, consider using silicone gel sheets or silicone-based scar creams once the wound has fully closed. These products can help flatten and soften scars. It’s generally recommended to start using these treatments after the skin has healed completely, which can take several weeks to months depending on the depth of the injury.

5. Environmental Considerations
Given that you live in a cooler climate and use heating, be mindful of the dryness that can result from indoor heating. Dry air can lead to dry skin, which may affect the healing process. To combat this, consider using a humidifier in your living space to maintain moisture in the air. Additionally, keep the wound covered when exposed to dry conditions to protect it from irritation.

6. Monitoring for Complications
Keep an eye on the wound for any signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, or discharge. If you notice any of these symptoms, or if the pain increases, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly.

7. Follow-Up Care
Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider are essential, especially if you have concerns about the healing process or if the pain persists. They can provide tailored advice and may recommend physical therapy if you experience significant stiffness or functional limitations.

In summary, proper care of your deep skin wound involves gentle cleansing, maintaining moisture, encouraging movement, and using scar prevention strategies. By following these guidelines and staying vigilant about your wound’s condition, you can promote optimal healing and minimize the risk of scarring. If you have any uncertainties or specific concerns, don’t hesitate to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Similar Q&A

Effective Solutions for Facial Scarring After Trauma: Expert Insights

Hello Doctor: I have some questions that I wanted to ask after my visit to the hospital, as sometimes I think of them later or I may not fully understand what was discussed. Two years ago, I sustained a laceration on my face approximately 2.5 cm in size due to a car accident. Aft...

Dr. Lu Daokuan reply Plastic Surgery
The blue discoloration near the scar on the face may indicate residual foreign material from a previous injury or the color of deep sutures. There are several methods to address scar indentation, including lightning-shaped scar revision, autologous fat grafting, and collagen fill...

How to Prevent Scarring on Your Knee After an Injury

If you are injured from a fall and are concerned about scarring on your knee, there are several preventive measures you can take. First, keep the wound clean and covered with a sterile bandage to protect it from infection. You can apply an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment to ...

Dr. Zheng Lizhen reply Dermatology
Hello: Whether a scar forms primarily depends on the depth and severity of the wound, as well as an individual's healing capacity. The principle is to maintain cleanliness and prevent wound infection, which can help avoid further scar formation. Sincerely, Dr. Cheng Li-Chen,...

Effective Strategies for Accelerating Wound Healing After Injury

Hello Doctor: I had a car accident on September 10, and the skin below my left ankle was abrasively injured (approximately 1.5 cm wide and 3.5 cm long) due to the motorcycle falling. I have been receiving treatment at a surgical clinic, but the wound is still not healing. I have ...

Dr. Li Zhonghuai reply Surgery
Hello! Hepatitis B itself may lead to cirrhosis, and many patients are unaware of this. Sometimes, ultrasound and CT scans may not diagnose it; it is only during laparoscopic surgery that cirrhosis or pure liver fibrosis may be observed. Wound healing will be very slow in such ca...

Effective Scar Removal and Prevention After Car Accidents

Hello Doctor: I was in a car accident previously, and I'm not sure if the small raised scar on my hand is due to improper wound care or keloid formation, but it does not exceed the size of the original wound. Recently, I had another car accident, and I have a circular wound ...

Dr. Zhou Hongzhang reply Plastic Surgery
A physician must personally examine a patient before administering treatment, prescribing medication, or providing a diagnosis. 1. Scars require proper care to look aesthetically pleasing. 2. Methods for scar care include silicone gel sheets, scar ointments, minimizing movement...