Bio-Oil can help improve the appearance of general scars and stretch marks, but it's not a proven preventative for keloids, which are genetically prone, raised scars that grow beyond the original injury. While Bio-Oil helps with hydration and texture for typical scars, keloids often need medical treatments like steroid injections, laser therapy, or silicone sheets, with silicone being the gold standard for flattening them. For those prone to keloids, avoiding unnecessary skin trauma (like piercings) and early wound care are key prevention, but Bio-Oil isn't a reliable keloid shield, according to dermatology experts, Chemist4U, Healthline, Patient.info, NHS, Dermacare Direct, American Academy of Dermatology.
How to prevent keloid scars
Yes, Bio-Oil® is safe to use before, during and after your pregnancy. Bio-Oil® can be used when you're breastfeeding too, however even though it is safe it is recommended that you do not apply the oil to your nipples.
Bio-Oil should not be used on broken skin, so please wait until your skin is fully healed before applying the product. Bio-Oil is not suitable for use on babies until they are over two years of age.
At that stage, six weeks after your surgery, I would expect the scar to be beautifully healed. I would be happy for you to start to gently massage the scar, in the line of the incision, with Bio Oil, E45 cream or Nivea cream. This will smooth the scar and can help to desensitise the area.
- When breastfeeding, the product keeps the skin hydrated while providing calming and reparative nourishment so that tension on skin cells causes less discomfort and damage. That being said, avoid applying on nipples where baby may consume the oil.
Very few products for scar reduction sold over the counter have actually been clinically proven to make a difference to scars (such as Bio-Oil, Vitamin E, cocoa butter etc.) Silicone is considered the gold standard ingredient in scar healing.
Lavender and tea tree oil
Essential oils like lavender and tea tree may help reduce inflammation and support your skin as it heals, reducing the risk of scarring.
Signs and symptoms might include: Thick, irregular scarring, typically on the earlobes, shoulders, cheeks or middle chest. Shiny, hairless, lumpy, raised skin. Varied size, depending on the size of the original injury and when the keloid stops growing.
Causes of Keloids
Skin type is a contributing factor, with darker skin tones, including African, Asian, or Hispanic, being more prone to keloids. The type of injury or trauma, especially repetitive incidents like piercing or tattooing, can increase the risk of keloid development.
The GP can recommend treatments to improve how it looks. Getting treatment early may help stop the keloid scar growing.
Use a silicone gel bandage. Keep even pressure on the area. Use the bandage on the skin for 12 to 24 hours a day for 2 to 3 months. This may prevent keloid growth.
There are no proven methods of removing keloid scars naturally. Some clinical studies have shown that onion extract used orally or on the skin might possibly be effective in improving the appearance of keloid scars and reducing itchiness and discomfort.
To prevent keloids after a minor skin injury, there are some things you can do that may help it heal faster and prevent keloid growth. Treat a new wound right away. Cover the area with a thin layer of petroleum jelly, such as Vaseline, and a nonstick bandage.
Kim Kardashian has used resurfacing lasers such as fractional and Cool Laser treatments to improve skin texture, stretch marks, and pigmentation. These lasers help tighten, smooth, and rejuvenate the skin without the need for invasive procedures.
Certain herbal remedies are often promoted for keloid treatment, such as aloe vera, tea tree oil and lavender oil. These natural ingredients are believed to have anti-inflammatory and wound healing properties.
Bio-Oil Skincare Oil should not be applied to an open wound or broken skin. It is safe to use Bio-Oil Skincare Oil on a scar as soon as the skin on the surface has fully healed.
Using moisturizers such as coconut oil or almond oil on your areolas and around your breasts promotes improved circulation and soft, healthy skin. You'll be amazed how simply using a moisturizer can enhance your breast tissues.
It will work to hydrate and protect your skin, helping to reduce shaving bumps and rashes. It can be used on your face, legs, armpits, bikini area - anywhere with unwanted hair, really!
Topical Treatments with Retinoids: Retinoid-based creams are known to increase cell turnover and fade dark scars faster. Chemical Peels: Chemical peels can remove dead skin cells and lighten scars. They are particularly effective for dark scars on the face or body.
Normally, it will take a minimum of 3 months of applying Bio-Oil twice a day before you can see positive results.
Scar Process
It will take six to 18 months for the scar to have its final appearance. Your scar should gradually soften and fade over these six to 18 months, but will look pink initially (photo B). Some scars never fade. If your scar stays pink after 12 to 18 months please call to discuss options.