The best way to minimize the appearance of a scar is to promote smooth healing.

• Keep it clean. Shower daily, and let soapy water run over the incision. Gently pat the area dry with a clean towel. Do not scrub or rub your incision.
• Limit sun exposure, but try to expose your scar to air by wearing loose clothing or a gown at night. Air circulation helps skin heal.
• Eat protein-rich foods, and drink a lot of water. Avoid cigarettes and alcohol—they can dehydrate the cells and stall healing.

Once your scar is healed, you can improve its appearance with the options below:

• Silicone sheets or topical gel restore skin, strengthen tissue, and soften scars. Apply them directly to your incision.
• Massage your scar regularly for 5 to 10 minutes with vitamin E oil or silicone gel. This increases cellular growth and blood flow to reduce the scar.
• Use sunscreen about six to eight weeks postpartum, or once the wound is completely closed. Keep it out of the sun until then.
• Dermatologists can recommend creams, laser therapy, steroid injections, or scar revision to improve your scar.

Your scar will take time to fade, and may never fully disappear. But over time, you should notice it less.