Optimal Support of Wound Healing: New Insights

<b><i>Background:</i></b> The ultimate goal of wound healing following minor injury is to form a tissue regenerate that has functionality and visual appearance as close to the original skin as possible. The body’s physiological response to any wound is traditionally characterised by three distinct steps: inflammation, proliferation and remodelling. <b><i>Summary:</i></b> New insights suggest that the three phases overlap (and even occur in parallel) in both time and space in the wound, necessitating a clinical approach that targets each stage simultaneously to ensure rapid repair and wound closure without further complications. Ingredients that exhibit activity across each of the three phases, such as dexpanthenol, are of value in the context of minor wound care and scar management. <b><i>Key Messages:</i></b> In addition to treatment and ingredient selection, it is also important to consider broader clinical best practices and self-care options that can be used to optimise the management of minor wounds. An individualised approach that can account for a patient’s unique requirements and preferences is critical in achieving effective wound recovery.