Scar Appreciation Day

History of Scar Appreciation Day

Scars were once a proud symbol of power, struggle, sacrifice, and endurance. We humans started our evolutionary journey as hunter-gatherers. Being a hunter is no easy task. It is a life where physical injuries are common. Most injuries, if not fatal, leave a scar. Some of these scars heal over time, while others stay there permanently. But as we moved from a hunter-gatherer life to a farmer’s life, the number of scars from our ancestors decreased. We have reached a time when only warriors will have scars. Some cultures started intentionally scarring the skin for a fearsome status and reputation. The modern tradition of scarring and tattoos can be traced back to these practices of ancient civilizations.

In the modern world, scars have nothing much to offer. We consider scars an unwanted nuisance. Most of us try to remove scars, especially if they are on the face or somewhere else others can see. But we can not remove all scars. While you can indeed treat some scars, others are permanent marks to remind us of the incident that created them in the first place.

No matter how the scar is formed, every scar has a story to share. Justine Faeth started this day in 2019 to appreciate the scars and raise awareness about the situation that created them.

Scar Appreciation Day timeline

8000 B.C.

Earliest Evidence Of Scarification

Ain Ghazal, in Jordan, has two headless figurines of fertility goddesses from the Paleolithic era with thick scarification lines.

800 B.C. – 700 B.C.

The Era Of Sushruta

Sushruta, the ancient Ayurvedic physician, also known as the father of surgery, uses natural medicines for treating scars.

460 B.C. – 375 B.C.

Hippocrates And Scar Treatment

Hippocrates uses vinegar on wounds and wrapped it around them.

1880s

Big Advances

The introduction of medical gloves and other safety equipment, hand washing practices, instrument sterilization, etc., begins.

Scar Appreciation Day FAQs

When is Scar Appreciation Day?

Scar Appreciation Day 2026 falls on Thursday, October 22. It’s a day dedicated to recognizing the stories and resilience behind our physical marks.

How many people have scars?

Virtually everyone has at least one scar, with estimates suggesting that over 80% of the population has experienced some form of scarring from injuries, surgeries, or conditions like acne. Scars are a universal part of the human experience.

What are the common types of scars?

Common scar types include flat, pale scars (most common), hypertrophic scars (raised, red, within original injury boundaries), keloid scars (raised, spreading beyond original injury), and atrophic scars (sunken, like acne scars). Each type forms differently based on the healing process.

Is Scar Appreciation Day about treating scars or accepting them?

Scar Appreciation Day primarily focuses on acceptance and emotional healing, encouraging individuals to view their scars as symbols of resilience rather than imperfections. While treatment options exist, the day emphasizes self-love and body positivity.

How to Observe Scar Appreciation Day

Try natural remedies

Do you have a scar that has yet to heal fully? Use a natural option like honey or aloe vera mixed with vitamin C. Use it regularly for a month and observe the difference.

Share your story

Every scar has a story to tell. An accident, a fight, a plight, or something delightful. Share your scar stories with your friends.

Post in social media

A scar has a lot to express. Capture the image of your scars and upload it to your social media. Describe the story behind them in your post.

5 Facts About Scars That You Should Know

Scars and collagen

An excess or shortage of collagen can result in scars.

U.V. resistance of scars

Scars do not have as much U.V. resistance as our normal skin and must be protected from sun damage.

Keloid scars

Body piercings can result in keloid scars due to unsterilized piercing equipment.

Healing hands of Vitamin C

Vitamin C is better than vitamin E at healing scars.

Action of hydrogen peroxide

Applying hydrogen peroxide can damage new cells and delay healing.

Why Scar Appreciation Day is Important

A day to open up

We love it when people open up about their pain. This is a day to open up about your scars and try to move on from the extra weight.

May get health advice

Today, everyone shares their scars. Not all scars are permanent. Some can be treated. You might find the proper treatment among all these conversations.