Zinc Oxide Versus Petrolatum Following Skin Surgery: A Head-to-head, Prospective, Split-scar Study

What this Trial Is About

This research investigates the healing and appearance of surgical scars on non-scalp skin closed in a straight line with a scar length of at least 4.5 cm. The study compares the effects of two ointments, zinc oxide and petrolatum, applied to different halves of each scar. This early phase 1 trial aims to evaluate scar outcomes using a validated scar assessment scale and to explore potential differences in wound healing and scar appearance between these two common skin treatments. Participants will have their surgical scars marked and divided into two halves: one side will receive zinc oxide ointment and the other petrolatum. Patients will apply the assigned ointments daily for one month while maintaining a log of their applications. Follow-up visits will occur at 1 week, 4 weeks, 8 weeks, and 6 months after surgery, during which the scars will be photographed and assessed by both the patients and trained dermatologists using the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS). The study also monitors for post-operative infections and measures the proportion of the wound that has sealed at various time points. During the study, participants will attend scheduled visits for suture removal, scar evaluation, and photographic documentation. Patients will complete questionnaires about their scar appearance at each visit. The study tracks adherence to ointment application through patient logs. Safety assessments include checking for surgical site infections and complications. Participants who complete all visits will receive a gift bag with skin care products. The total study duration per participant includes follow-up assessments up to six months post-surgery, with options for remote photo submissions if the final visit cannot be attended in person.

Zinc Oxide Versus Petrolatum Following Skin Surgery