Can Scar Tissue Get Sunburned?

Yes. Scar tissue can be damaged by UV exposure and may be more vulnerable to sun-related changes than the surrounding skin. New scars are especially sensitive because they are still remodeling and have not fully regained the protective characteristics of healthy skin. As a result, sun exposure can increase redness, discoloration, and the overall visibility of a scar (Gold et al., 2014).

Why Are Scars More Sensitive to the Sun?

Scar tissue differs from normal skin.

During healing, the body produces new collagen and forms replacement tissue. This tissue often contains fewer melanocytes—the cells responsible for producing protective pigment—and may respond differently to ultraviolet (UV) radiation (Monstrey et al., 2014).

Because of these differences, scars may burn more easily or develop uneven pigmentation after sun exposure.

What Happens When a Scar Gets Too Much Sun?

Excessive UV exposure can affect the appearance of a scar in several ways.

Common effects include:

Hyperpigmentation (darkening)
Increased redness
Uneven skin tone
More noticeable scar appearance

For many people, the discoloration caused by sun exposure lasts longer than the sunburn itself and can persist for months (Gold et al., 2014).

Are New Scars More Vulnerable Than Old Scars?

Yes.

Most scar specialists recommend protecting healing scars from direct sun exposure for at least 12 months after injury or surgery because scar remodeling continues long after the skin surface has closed (Monstrey et al., 2014).

New scars are more likely to develop long-term discoloration if exposed to UV radiation during this period.

How Can You Protect a Scar from the Sun?

Cover the Scar

Whenever possible, clothing, hats, or physical coverings provide the most reliable protection.

Use Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen

A broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher can help protect scars from UVA and UVB damage (American Academy of Dermatology, 2024).

Reapply Regularly

Sunscreen should be reapplied according to product directions, particularly after swimming or sweating.

How Silicone and Sun Protection Work Together

Silicone and sunscreen serve different purposes.

Silicone gels and sheets help support scar hydration and maturation, while sunscreen helps protect the scar from UV-related discoloration (Gold et al., 2014).

For many individuals, both are important components of a scar care routine once the wound is fully closed.

When Should You Seek Medical Advice?

A scar should be evaluated if it develops:

Significant darkening
Persistent redness
Rapid growth
Pain
Drainage
Other concerning changes

A healthcare professional can determine whether additional treatment is needed.

FAQ

Can an old scar get sunburned?

Yes. Mature scars can still be affected by UV exposure, although newer scars are typically more vulnerable.

Why does my scar turn darker in the sun?

UV exposure can stimulate pigment changes in healing skin, causing the scar to become darker than the surrounding skin.

Does sunscreen prevent scar discoloration?

Sunscreen can help reduce UV-related discoloration and is commonly recommended as part of scar management.

Can I put sunscreen on a fresh scar?

Sunscreen should only be applied once the wound is fully closed. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions.

References

American Academy of Dermatology. (2024). Sunscreen recommendations. Link

Gold, M. H., et al. (2014). Updated international clinical recommendations on scar management. Dermatologic Surgery, 40(8), 825–831. Link

Monstrey, S., et al. (2014). Updated scar management practical guidelines. Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery, 67(8), 1017–1025. Link