A cesarean section marks an important moment in a woman's life – the birth of a child. However, the scar that results often poses a physical and emotional challenge. With the right care, massage, and high-quality products, you can not only optimize this healing process but also ensure that your cesarean scar becomes a barely visible mark.
Why is scar care after a cesarean section so important?
As Gauglitz (2018) describes, scars occur when the skin is damaged by injuries or surgeries. During the healing process, the body produces connective tissue to close the wound. In the case of a cesarean section, which cuts through several layers of skin, there is an increased risk of complications such as hardening, adhesions, or hypertrophic scars. Good care not only helps to improve the aesthetic appearance but also supports mobility and well-being. Adhesions are a common consequence of cesarean scars. They occur when tissue layers such as fascia stick together, which can lead to restrictions in mobility and even chronic pain. These adhesions affect more than every second patient after abdominal surgery (53–91% of cases) (Faszien Zentrum Hamburg, 2024) and should be specifically treated through care and massage.
The most common types of scars after a cesarean section
"Not every cesarean scar heals the same. There are different types of scars that are influenced by individual wound healing, surgical technique, and aftercare (Monstrey et al., 2014):"
A "normal" cesarean section scar is usually flat and fades over time. In contrast, hypertrophic scars occur when the body produces too much collagen, resulting in a thicker, raised scar. Particularly noticeable is the so-called keloid scar, where excessive scar tissue grows beyond the original wound boundary. Sunken scars can also develop when collagen production is insufficient.
Another common effect is adhesions, where scar tissue connects with deeper structures and can cause pain or restrictions in movement.
How can a “beautiful” scar develop?
The path to a discreet cesarean scar requires patience, care, and a healthy lifestyle. Although the external wound often heals within a few weeks, it can take up to a year for the scar to fully mature. During this time, you can do a lot to positively influence the outcome.
An important factor is protection from the sun. Fresh scars are sensitive to UV radiation and can become permanently discolored. Dermatologists therefore recommend protecting the scar with a sunscreen with SPF 50 for at least one year and avoiding direct sunlight (Dermatology Times, 2019). A balanced diet rich in vitamin E, protein, and adequate fluids supports collagen formation and accelerates healing, while alcohol and nicotine can slow down regeneration (Smith et al., Nutrition & Healing, 2020).
Why scar massage and care go hand in hand
Massages are a central component of scar care. They promote circulation, release adhesions, and improve the elasticity of the skin. About six to eight weeks after the birth, when the external wound has completely healed, you can start. Massages not only help to improve the appearance of the scar but can also prevent tension and pain in the scar area (Gilbert et al., 2022). The massage becomes particularly effective when combined with a scar care cream specifically tailored to the needs after a cesarean section – like Faded Memory by Forty Weeks.
Faded Memory by Forty Weeks – your companion for scar care
Choosing the right scar care cream is crucial to promote the healing process. Faded Memory by Forty Weeks is a specially developed scar cream that is specifically tailored to the needs of new mothers. With a unique combination of 100% vegan ingredients, Faded Memory sets new standards in scar care and helps your skin regain its natural beauty. The cream was developed in close collaboration with skincare experts and mothers to provide you with exactly what you need: effective care, protection, and regeneration.
Allantoin acts like a gentle healer for your skin. It promotes regeneration, soothes irritated areas, and ensures that the tissue feels supple – perfect for sensitive skin after childbirth. No feeling of tension, just gentle care.
Ectoin is a miracle ingredient that protects your scar and improves its elasticity. It acts like an invisible shield that keeps external influences at bay while your skin regenerates deeply.
Hemp seed oil is the ultimate moisturizer. Rich in essential fatty acids, it soothes your skin and leaves it velvety soft. The result: a scar that not only looks smooth but feels that way too.
In combination with the right massage (instructions here), Faded Memory can help stimulate collagen production and keep scar tissue soft and elastic. The effect of Faded Memory is no coincidence. Studies show that ingredients like allantoin and ectoin can accelerate the healing of surgical scars by nearly 20% (Ocampo-Candiani et al., 2014). With regular use of Faded Memory, you can experience visible results in just a few weeks – and look forward to long-term noticeable improvements. Order now here
Sources:
Gauglitz, G. (2018). Narbentherapie. In: Plewig, G., Ruzicka, T., Kaufmann, R., Hertl, M. (eds) Braun-Falco's Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology. Springer Reference Medicine. Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-662-49546-9_122-1
Gilbert, I., Gaudreault, N., & Gaboury, I. (2022). Exploring the effects of standardized soft tissue mobilization on the viscoelastic properties, pressure pain thresholds, and tactile pressure thresholds of the cesarean section scar. Journal of Integrative and Complementary Medicine, 28(4), 355–362. https://doi.org/10.1089/jicm.2021.0178
Faszienzentrum Hamburg. (n.d.). Adhesions C-section scar: How to treat them properly. Retrieved on 26.11.2024, from https://faszienzentrum-hamburg.de/blog/narben/verwachsungen-kaiserschnitt-narbe-so-behandelst-du-sie-richtig/
Monstrey, S., Middelkoop, E., Vranckx, J. J., Bassetto, F., Ziegler, U. E., Meaume, S., & Téot, L. (2014). Updated scar management practical guidelines: Non-invasive and invasive measures. Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery, 67(8), 1017–1025. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bjps.2014.04.011
Ocampo-Candiani et al., 2014. The prophylactic use of a topical scar gel containing extract of Allium cepae, allantoin, & heparin improves symptoms and appearance of caesarean-section scars compared with untreated scars. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 13(2)
