Scars and clothing that lies against them
Short answer: Scar tissue has fewer sweat glands and a different surface from normal skin, and it tolerates friction less well. Smooth clothing without seams across the scar makes everyday life easier. If you are unsure about your scar, or it changes, talk to your doctor.
What is different about scar tissue
The scar does not have the same oil and sweat glands as the skin around it, so it is drier. It is also less elastic. Both mean that friction is felt more strongly and the skin cracks more easily. That is why clothing that does not bother the rest of the body can become a problem right over a scar.
The clothing that bothers least
Choose smooth fabric without seams across the scar. Bamboo viscose glides instead of gripping, which is an advantage for scar tissue. The less the fabric pulls at the skin when you move, the less discomfort. See our bamboo underwear for women if the scar sits where underwear does.
The seam matters most
Look at where seams and waistbands sit in relation to the scar, and choose a style where they do not cross. Sit down, stand up, bend over and notice where the fabric pulls. A seam running across a scar can rub with every movement all day.
Scars near the waistband
If the scar sits at the waist or hip, the waistband is often the biggest challenge. Choose a style where the elastic sits above or below the scar rather than on it. See bamboo panties and check where the edge sits when you stand and when you sit.
Scars on the upper body
If the scar is on the back, shoulder or chest, think about where clothes pull when you lift your arms. Loose clothing with plenty of room rubs less than clothing that fits close. See bamboo T-shirts for men if you want a soft everyday option, and choose a size that does not fit tightly.
Itching and dryness
Scars often itch more than other skin, especially while they are still healing. Dryness is part of the cause, and scratching can make the skin even sorer. Avoid scratching and keep the skin supple. Follow the advice you have been given by your doctor or nurse about caring for the scar.
Does cream help
Moisture reduces both itching and friction, so a cream can make clothing more comfortable over the scar. Ask your doctor or the pharmacy which cream suits your scar, especially if it is new or still healing. Let the cream soak in before you dress, so nothing sticks.
Tight clothing over a scar
Over a scar, tight clothing is rarely a good idea, unless you have been given other instructions. Compression wear after surgery or a burn follows the doctor's instructions, and those come before general advice. If you are unsure, ask the place that treats you what suits you.
Washing and care
Wash clothes without perfume and rinse an extra time so no detergent residue stays in the fabric. Skip fabric softener if the skin is sensitive. Cut out labels if they sit at the scar, and keep several sets so you can change when clothing has rubbed or turned damp.
Frequently asked questions
Does a scar itch more than other skin
Often yes, especially while it is still healing. Dryness is part of the cause. Avoid scratching, keep the skin supple, and talk to your doctor if the itch is severe or the scar changes or starts to hurt.
Does cream help
Yes, moisture reduces both itching and friction. Ask your doctor or the pharmacy which cream suits your scar, and let it soak in before you dress, so the fabric does not stick.
Should you avoid tight clothing
Over a scar yes, unless you have been given other instructions. Compression wear follows the doctor's advice. Otherwise choose loose, smooth clothes without seams across the scar, and ask the place that treats you if you are unsure.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
