Derm Myth of the Week : Scabs mean your wound is healing better

Many people think letting a wound dry out and form a scab helps it heal faster; but that’s actually a myth.

Scabs form when a wound dries out. While they may seem protective, they actually slow down the healing process. Scabs are the perfect environment for bacteria to linger. Scabs trap debris and microorganisms; slowing the skin’s natural cleansing process. Skin cells need a moist environment to move across the wound and repair it. When a scab forms, it creates a hard barrier that makes it more difficult for new skin to grow. Instead of letting a wound dry out, keeping it moist with Vaseline to support faster and more efficient healing. Moist wound care allows new skin cells to regenerate smoothly; without having to “fight through” a scab.

Scabs can lead to :

• delayed healing

• increased inflammation

• higher risk of scarring

• more noticeable discoloration after healing

The next time you have a cut or abrasion, apply Vaseline and cover it with a bandage to promote faster, smoother healing; rather than letting a scab form.