Chicken pox scars forever?

Your questions answered by Sharon Trotter of Greatvine.com

My daughter had chicken pox and was left with terrible scars all over her face, chest and back. How long will they take to fade and is there anything I can do to make them better?

The healing process differs between each baby and child so it is difficult to say how long it will take for these scars to fade.
During an attack of chickenpox it would be wise to keep your child’s nails short and discourage them from scratching the scabs (to avoid infections occurring). This will help to speed up the healing process. Natural fabrics (100% silk or cotton) are useful to avoid overheating (which itself can increase itchiness) with new generation fabrics now available which are designed to help regulate the body temperature.

The application of calamine lotion is a great way to cool irritated skin but if the skin is very itchy antihistamines may be prescribed by your Doctor. Should any spots become infected antibiotics may also be needed. If you follow this advice it is unlikely that scars will occur but even if they do they are likely to be minor and will fade in time.

Sharon Trotter

Sharon Trotter is a Registered Midwife with over 24 years of professional experience. Friendly and approachable, Sharon specialises in breastfeeding and baby skincare. Her work on baby skincare has helped to change NHS policy within maternity units nationwide and her book 'Breastfeeding: the essential guide' is a top-10 best seller. A mother of five, Sharon is looking forward to helping you. For individual advice from Sharon, by phone, book a private call at www.greatvine.com/sharon_trotter. For more information go to www.tipslimited.com.