Question:
Should I put sun block on my scar under my bathing suit?

I'm going to Hawaii next week and was wondering if anyone knows if I should use a sun block on my scar under my bathing suit? I don't want my scar to darken through my suit, if it can. I don't know that I want to drape a towel over my belly while I'm lying in the sun. (I tried looking through the library but only came up with tanning booths.) Any info is appreciated. Thanks! :o)    — Jennifer A. (posted on November 30, 2002)

November 30, 2002
Hi, and the answer is Yes, I have a gallbladder scar from surgery in 1981(the old way they used to do it) and if I don't put on sunblock I do get burned, through my bathing suit not that anyone will ever see what's underneath my bathing suit even after surgery!!LOL Hope this helps .
   — Dorothy B.

November 30, 2002
I learned long before research came out, that the sun burns thru clothing. Especially dark clothing. Whenever I wear black pants and take a car ride, I get a burn on my stomach and thighs where the sun hit my pants. Irritating! But anyway, yes one should always slather protection on before getting suited up - this would include places where you don't have a scar as well.
   — [Deactivated Member]

November 30, 2002
Yes, wear a good waterproof high spf lotion, and reapply every few hours. I tanned at about 4 months out and my scar did get a bit darker. I made sure to slather on vitamin e cream twice a day and it looks great now, but watch that sun!! Have fun in Hawaii!!!
   — Paula Prichard

December 1, 2002
My dermatologist told me that yes, you should wear sunblock, ESPECIALLY the 1st year after surgery or your scar can darken permenantly.
   — Lynette B.

December 1, 2002
That's what I thought! Thanks Ladies. :o)
   — Jennifer A.