---
title: "Red or Dark Scars"
url: "https://www.aestheticplasticsurgeons.org/scar-information/red-or-dark-scars"
type: "Article"
section: "Scar Information"
summary: "Why scars look red, pink or darker than the surrounding skin, how colour changes over time, and what may help - including sun protection."
audience: "Adults considering cosmetic plastic surgery or non-surgical treatments, in Cheshire, Manchester and Barbados."
language: "en-GB"
publisher: "Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons"
---

# Red or Dark Scars

Understanding scar colour

Why scars can look red, pink or darker than the surrounding skin, and what may help the colour settle.

A red, pink scar near the collarbone, with a magnified close-up

## Why scars change colour

A new scar is often red or pink because of the extra blood vessels that form as it heals. Over time these settle and the redness usually fades. In darker skin a scar may instead become darker than the surrounding skin (hyperpigmented), and occasionally a scar can look paler.

## How colour settles over time

Most colour change is part of normal maturing and improves over many months. Redness can take up to two years to fully settle, so a scar’s early colour is not its final colour.

## What may help

Protecting a scar from the sun makes a real difference: keep it covered and use a high-factor sunscreen (SPF 30 or above) for at least a year, as sun exposure can make discolouration more noticeable. Silicone may help a red scar settle, and in selected cases laser treatment may help improve redness or discolouration. Your surgeon can advise.

## When to seek advice

If a scar stays very red or dark well beyond the normal healing period, or the colour is a concern, it can be assessed.

_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 scar's colour?

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

## Related scar information

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

## 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, "Red or Dark Scars", https://www.aestheticplasticsurgeons.org/scar-information/red-or-dark-scars.

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