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Sometimes, recovery from a scar can require more patience than the original wound healing. A lot of products might promise fading of the marks and smoothing of the skin surface. However, recently, retinol has become one of the most talked-about ingredients in scar care. In this blog, we’ll explore the science behind retinol in scar creams, how it should (or shouldn’t) be used, and how Scar Protocol integrates retinol.

Why Retinoids Are Considered

Before deciding if retinol is “a must-have,” it's important to understand why it's included in scar creams. Retinoids (vitamin A derivatives) are known to influence dermal remodeling. They can support skin remodeling by boosting collagen production, activating fibroblasts, and improving the organization of collagen fibers. In a study, adapalene 0.3% applied over months showed improvement in scar texture and grade. 

Retinoids also accelerate epidermal turnover, which can help smooth surface irregularities, reduce hyperpigmentation, and disperse melanin granules. They also inhibit melanosome transfer, aiding in the fading of post-inflammatory pigmentation often seen in scars. 

When Retinol Can Be Used in Scar Treatment

• After the wound is fully closed and the scar is in a more mature, remodeling phase, typically weeks to months post-injury.
• In scars that show persistent pigmentation or uneven texture.
• In thin, flat scars, where the goal is smoothing and blending rather than suppression of overgrowth.
• When combined with silicone, hydration, and sun protection (i.e., as part of a multi-modal regimen).
• When the formulation is gentle, low-irritant, and used at a low concentration initially with gradual escalation.

When Retinol Should Be Avoided or Delayed

• Too early in healing (while the wound is still open or fragile).
• In thick scars where suppression of excess collagen (rather than stimulation) is needed.
• At high, irritating concentrations that provoke inflammation or cause barrier breakdown.
• In skin types prone to hyperpigmentation, if sun protection is not rigorously enforced.
• If retinol is used in isolation instead of being integrated into a broader treatment plan.

So, retinol is not universally mandatory in scar creams, but it can be a powerful component when timed and used judiciously.

Best Practices

If you’re going to include retinol (or retinoid derivatives) in your scar regimen, here are some best practices you can follow.

• Start low, go slow: Start with a very low concentration of retinol, used maybe 2–3 nights per week, then gradually increase frequency as the skin tolerates.
• SPF protection is non-negotiable: Without strict sun protection, retinol use on scars can undermine the benefit. Use broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily.
• Monitor, back off if irritation: If you experience persistent peeling, redness, or burning, reduce frequency or concentration. Recovery and barrier integrity matter more than aggressive dosing.
• Be patient: Scar remodeling is a slow and steady process that can take several months, or even longer, to fully develop. The effects of retinol build gradually over time, so consistent use and patience are important.

How Scar Protocol Integrates Retinol 

We believe in respecting the biology of wound healing and scar maturation. That’s why in our system, retinol arrives at the right time.

The Five Phases of the Scar Protocol System

Scar healing isn’t a single-step process, it’s a gradual, biological sequence that requires the right care at each stage. The Scar Protocol system was developed to guide this process by providing targeted ingredients at the exact time your skin needs them most.

Below is an overview of the five phases, each designed to support the skin’s recovery from early healing to long-term remodeling.

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Phase

Focus

Key Ingredients

Phase I

Moisturize & cleanse

• Aloe Vera
• Persea
• Macadamia
• Vitamin E
• Lavender

Phase II

Moisture support

• Aloe Vera
• Allantoin
• Glycerin

Phase III

Repair & hydrate

• Purified Snail Mucin
• Oryza Sativa
• Rosa Gallica

Phase IV

Skin conditioning

• Tocopherol
• Salix Alba
• Coco Oil

Phase V

Collagen remodeling

• Retinol
• Helianthus
• Jojoba

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Complete Your Healing Journey

Phase V is designed for the final stage of scar healing in our 12-month incision scar recovery system. With retinol as its core active, this last phase supports the skin’s deeper remodeling process at a time when the scar is largely healed but still evolving beneath the surface. Because we've paced prior phases to prepare the skin, Phase V’s formula is designed to optimize the healing environment safely, even if you've never used retinol before. Have questions about which phase your scar is ready for? Give us a call at 425-864-3777 for a complimentary scar consultation.

FAQs

1. How much retinol is too much for a scar?

Use low concentrations as suggested by your provider for scar care. Higher strengths can irritate healing skin.

2. Can retinol irritate or worsen my scar if my skin is sensitive?

Yes, if introduced too soon or applied too often. Start retinol only after full healing and use gentle, hydrating formulations. 

3. How soon will I see visible changes in my scar after starting retinol?

You may notice gradual texture and tone improvements within 8–12 weeks. Scar remodeling is slow, continuing for months, so consistency and patience, along with proper sun protection, are essential.

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