How to Massage Your Scar for Better Healing

Taking an Active Role in Your Healing

Scar massage is a simple and effective way to support your skin’s healing process. While there are many factors outside your control, regular massage can help soften scar tissue, prevent adhesions, and improve overall comfort.

What Is Scar Massage?

Scar massage involves gently pressing and moving the skin and underlying tissue to keep the scar flexible and prevent it from becoming hard, raised, or stuck to deeper structures.

During healing, scar tissue can adhere to muscles, tendons, blood vessels, and even bones, which may lead to tightness, discomfort, or limited movement. Massaging your scar helps loosen these adhesions and encourages healthy, flexible skin regeneration.

Why Massage Your Scar?

Regular scar massage offers several benefits, including:

Hydration – Stimulates blood flow and supports cell regeneration.
Pliability – Helps reduce excess scar tissue buildup, keeping the scar flexible.
Movement – Increases mobility, especially for scars near joints.
Inflammation – Drains excess fluid, reducing redness and swelling.
Irritation Relief – Can ease discomfort, itchiness, and hypersensitivity and may help restore sensation in numb areas.

Beyond the physical benefits, scar massage can also be a step toward acceptance. Engaging with your scar regularly may help you build a more positive relationship with it over time.

When Can I Start Massaging My Scar?

Before you begin massaging your scar, it must be fully healed.

Do not massage an open wound, a fresh incision, or a scab.
Check with your medical team to confirm your scar is ready for massage.

Massaging too early can reopen the scar or increase the risk of infection, so always wait until your scar is completely sealed and stable before starting.

How to Massage Your Scar

To perform scar massage:

Place the pad of your thumb or fingertips on the scar.
Use slow, steady motions to move the scar and skin, rather than just rubbing on top.
Start with light pressure and gradually increase as your scar becomes more pliable. If your scar is near a sensitive area, such as the face, abdomen, or near nerves, use extra care, and consult your medical team if massage causes discomfort.
Apply firm but gentle pressure—you should see the skin whiten slightly, indicating that you are moving the scar tissue itself, not just the surface skin.
Work your way across the entire scar and surrounding area using the following three techniques:

These movements help break down excess collagen, improve flexibility, and encourage smoother healing.

How Often Should I Massage My Scar?

Aim to massage your scar daily for at least 6 to 12 months following surgery.
Start with gentle pressure, increasing gradually over time.
If you find scar massage soothing, you can continue beyond 12 months—there is no harm in maintaining a regular routine.

Precautions – When to Stop?

If your scar becomes painful, swollen, blistered, or irritated, stop massaging immediately and consult your medical team. Some problem scars, such as keloid or hypertrophic scars, may require supervised massage techniques, so always seek professional advice if unsure.

Not all scars respond the same way to massage:

Raised scars (hypertrophic or keloid scars) may require a gentler approach or medical supervision.
Indented scars (atrophic scars), such as acne or chickenpox scars, may not benefit from massage but may improve with other treatments like microneedling or dermal fillers.

If unsure, consult your medical team before starting a massage routine.

Why Use a Balm for Scar Massage?

Keeping your scar moist and nourished is essential for healthy healing. Using a specially formulated balm can enhance the benefits of scar massage by:

Reducing friction – A balm helps your fingers glide smoothly, preventing irritation.
Hydrating the scar – Moisture supports cell regeneration and keeps the scar soft.
Calming inflammation – Active ingredients strengthen the skin barrier and protect against irritation.
Enhancing appearance – The combination of massage and hydration can help improve the texture, colour, and flexibility of the scar over time.

Scar massage with a balm can continue even after your scar has fully matured, as it helps maintain long-term skin health.

Caring for Your Scar with Natural Products

At Nokori, we understand that every scar tells a story, and we’re here to help you confidently navigate your recovery.

The Nokori Scar Balm

Developed with surgeons, nurses, and patients, our Scar Balm is designed to support your healing journey.

Formulated with certified organic, 100% natural ingredients
Infused with plant extracts known for their anti-inflammatory and skin-restorative properties
Specifically designed to nourish, protect, and improve the appearance of scars

To learn more about Nokori Scar Balm, please read our Snippet: "The Nokori Scar Balm".

Scar massage is one of the simplest, most effective ways to take an active role in your healing. With gentle, consistent care, you can support your skin’s recovery and improve the look and feel of your scar over time.

The Nokori Team