Wound healing Stages
Understanding How Wounds Heal
A wound refers – any break or opening in the skin. Since the skin shields the body from germs, even a small opening — comprising surgical incisions — can permit germs or bacteria to enter and cause infection. Majority of wounds occur due to accidents or injuries.
Types of wounds comprise:
- Cuts
- Scrapes
- Puncture wounds
- Burns
- Pressure sores
A wound may be smooth or jagged and may impact only the surface or extend deeper. Deep wounds can involve:
- Tendons
- Muscles
- Ligaments
- Nerves
- Blood vessels
- Bones
Minor wounds typically heal without difficulty, but all wounds require proper care to prevent infection.
What are the Stages of Wound Healing?
Wounds heal in several stages. Smaller wounds heal faster, while larger/deeper ones take longer.
1. Bleeding & Clotting
Post a cut, scrape, or puncture, bleeding begins and the blood clots within minutes.
The clot dries to form a scab, which protects the tissue underneath from germs.
(Not all wounds bleed — for instance, burns, few punctures, and pressure sores may not.)
2. Inflammation (2–5 days)
Once a scab forms, the immune system works to prevent infection.
During this stage, the wound may:
- Look slightly red or pink
Feel swollen or tender - Release a small amount of clear fluid that helps clean the portion
Blood vessels widen to bring oxygen and nutrients, which are essential for healing.
White blood cells combat germs and begin repairing the damaged tissue.
3. Tissue Formation & Repair (up to ~3 weeks)
The body:
- Repairs broken blood vessels
- Builds new tissue
- Produces collagen, a strong fiber that forms the structure of new skin
- Fills the wound with granulation tissue
- Begins forming new skin over the top
As healing continues, the edges of the wound pull inward and the wound gets smaller.
4. Remodeling & Scar Formation
A scar forms as the tissue strengthens.
During this phase, you may notice:
- Itching
- Red, shiny, or stretched-looking skin after the scab falls off
The scar is usually smaller than the original wound but is less strong and less flexible than normal skin.
Scars fade gradually and may take up to 2 years to improve. Some may not disappear completely.
Shallow wounds rarely scar. Deeper injuries are more likely to leave a mark.
Some people also tend to form thicker scars, such as keloids, especially those with darker skin tones.
Caring for Your Wound
Keeping a wound clean and covered helps prevent infection and reduce scarring.
- Minor wounds:
Clean gently with soap and water, then apply a sterile bandage or dressing. - Major wounds:
Follow your healthcare provider’s specific instructions.
Avoid scratching or picking at scabs — this can delay healing and increase scarring.
Few people apply vitamin E or petroleum jelly post the scab falls off, but there is no clear proof that these help scars fade. Always ask your provider before applying anything to a healing wound.
Outlook
With proper care, most wounds heal well, leaving little or no scarring. Larger or deeper wounds are more likely to leave a mark.
Factors that slow or prevent healing include:
- Infection
- Diabetes
- Poor blood flow (e.g., blocked/clogged arteries or varicose veins)
- Obesity (can increase/elevate infection risk and strain stitches)
- Older age
- Heavy alcohol use
- Stress, poor sleep, unhealthy diet, smoking
- Certain medications (corticosteroids, NSAIDs, some chemotherapy drugs)
- Smoking, which delays healing and raises infection risk
Wounds that heal slowly may need additional medical care.
When to Call a Doctor or Healthcare Professional
Seek medical attention if you notice:
- Increasing redness, pain, yellow/green pus, or excessive clear drainage
- Black edges on the wound (possible dead tissue)
- Bleeding that does not stop after 10 minutes of pressure
- Fever of 100°F (37.7°C) or higher lasting more than 4 hours
- Persistent pain despite medication
- A wound that reopens or stitches/staples that come out too early
