Facial Laceration Home Care Guidelines
Keep the wound clean and dry with gentle cleansing, apply antibiotic ointment if no allergies exist, cover with a clean occlusive dressing, monitor for infection signs, and ensure tetanus prophylaxis is current.
Wound Cleaning and Hygiene
- Cleanse the wound gently with tepid water and pH-neutral soap twice daily, avoiding hot water entirely, and pat dry with clean towels rather than rubbing 1
- No need for iodine or antibiotic-containing solutions for routine home cleaning after initial repair 1
- Keep hands away from the wound unless freshly washed to prevent contamination 2
- Perform hand hygiene with soap and water when hands are visibly dirty or before touching the wound area 3
Wound Dressing and Moisture Management
- Cover the wound with a clean occlusive dressing to maintain a moist environment, which accelerates healing 1, 4
- Change the dressing daily or if it becomes wet or soiled 1
- Apply antibiotic ointment or cream if the laceration is superficial and the patient has no known antibiotic allergies 1
- Occlusive and semiocclusive dressings should be used when available as wounds heal faster in moist environments 4
Activity Restrictions and Protection
- Avoid mechanical stress, friction, or trauma to the repaired area during the healing period 2
- Keep the wound dry during bathing for the first 24-48 hours after repair 1
- Avoid activities that could cause tension on the wound or risk re-injury 2
- Do not manipulate, pick, or scratch the wound as this increases infection risk and can cause scarring 2
Sun Protection (Critical for Facial Wounds)
- Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to the healed wound daily once sutures are removed, reapplying every 2 hours when outdoors 2
- Avoid unnecessary sun exposure during healing and for several months after, as UV exposure can cause hyperpigmentation and worsen cosmetic outcomes 2
- Wear protective clothing including hats to shield the facial wound from sun 2
Infection Monitoring
- Monitor daily for signs of infection including increasing pain, redness, swelling, warmth, purulent discharge, or yellow crusts 1, 2
- Development of fever or systemic symptoms requires immediate medical attention 2
- Follow up within 24 hours either by phone or office visit after initial repair 1
- If infection develops, seek medical care promptly as facial infections can progress rapidly 1
Tetanus Prophylaxis
- Ensure tetanus immunization status is current 1
- If tetanus status is outdated or unknown, contact your healthcare provider for tetanus toxoid administration 1
Suture Removal Timing
- Timing of suture removal for facial lacerations is typically 3-5 days for areas under minimal tension and up to 7 days for areas under more tension, based on location and wound characteristics 4
- Do not attempt to remove sutures at home; return to the healthcare provider at the scheduled time 4
What to Avoid
- Never use over-the-counter anti-acne medications, topical retinoids, or harsh skincare products on or near the wound until fully healed 2
- Avoid alcohol-containing products that may irritate healing tissue 2
- Do not use hot blow-dryers on treated facial areas 2
- Avoid tight clothing or accessories that create friction on the wound 2
Common Pitfalls
- Underestimating the importance of sun protection leads to permanent hyperpigmentation in facial wounds 2
- Failing to recognize early infection signs delays appropriate treatment and worsens outcomes 2
- Resuming normal skincare routines too early disrupts healing 2
- Inadequate moisturization can lead to excessive scarring and poor cosmetic results 2