---
title: "Painful or Itchy Scars"
url: "https://www.aestheticplasticsurgeons.org/scar-information/painful-or-itchy-scars"
type: "Article"
section: "Scar Information"
summary: "Why a scar may feel itchy, tender or tight while it heals, what is normal, and when discomfort should be checked by your surgical team."
audience: "Adults considering cosmetic plastic surgery or non-surgical treatments, in Cheshire, Manchester and Barbados."
language: "en-GB"
publisher: "Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons"
---

# Painful or Itchy Scars

Sensations while a scar heals

Why a healing scar may feel itchy, tender or tight, what is normal, and when it should be checked.

An inflamed red scar on a shoulder, with a magnified close-up

## Why scars itch or feel tender

Itching, tightness and tenderness are common while a scar heals. As the skin repairs, nerves regrow and the scar tissue remodels, which can cause itching and odd sensations. This usually settles as the scar matures.

## What may help

Once the wound has fully healed, keeping the scar moisturised, gentle massage and silicone may ease itching and help the scar settle. Try not to scratch, as this can irritate a healing scar. Loose clothing over the area can help.

## When discomfort should be checked

Contact your surgical team if a scar becomes increasingly painful, or if there is spreading redness, swelling, heat or discharge, which should be checked promptly. Ongoing pain in a scar after it has healed is also worth assessing.

_This information is for general guidance only and is not a substitute for advice from a qualified clinician. Reviewed against NHS guidance._

Concerned about a painful scar?

A consultant plastic surgeon can assess your scar and talk you through whether any treatment may help.

## Related scar information

-   [Scar Care After Surgery](https://www.aestheticplasticsurgeons.org/scar-information/scar-care-after-surgery)
-   [Understanding Scars](https://www.aestheticplasticsurgeons.org/scar-information/understanding-scars)

## About this source

Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons is a team of consultant plastic surgeons offering breast, body, facial and non-surgical treatments, with locations in Cheshire, Manchester and Barbados. All care is provided by consultant plastic surgeons on the GMC Specialist Register, operating in CQC-registered facilities. Members of BAAPS and BAPRAS.

- Website: https://www.aestheticplasticsurgeons.org
- Phone: 0808 129 2000
- Email: sian@aestheticplasticsurgeons.org

Cite as: Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons, "Painful or Itchy Scars", https://www.aestheticplasticsurgeons.org/scar-information/painful-or-itchy-scars.

_This page is for general information only and does not replace personalised medical advice._