Antibiotic ointment. Keeping the wound moist and bacteria-free can promote more rapid healing.
Topical creams/gels. Products like Mederma®, made from onion extract, may help heal skin and minimize the appearance of scars.
Silicone sheets. Placing a silicone sheet (available at pharmacies) over newly healed skin (not open wounds) may diminish the thickness of scars, especially hypertrophic or keloid scars. These sheets need to be kept on for at least 12 hours a day over the course of a few months.
Aloe. With its natural healing and anti-inflammatory properties, aloe vera gel can help reduce swelling, soothe, and moisturize the wound, helping skin heal better. Look for a product with no parabens, fragrances, or petrochemicals to avoid irritating the skin. Or better yet, keep your own aloe vera plant at home and simply pick off a leaf, remove the outer skin and apply the fresh aloe directly (this also works great for treating sunburns!).