Welcome to The Scar Free Foundation
We’re the only medical research charity revolutionising the way scarring is prevented and treated – for everyone.
Since 1999, we’ve enabled over £50 million in pioneering research into wound healing, scar treatment and prevention, mental health support, and awareness.
Scars Are Permanent and Unavoidable.
Anyone can get a scar. Burns, blast injuries, and surgery for cancer – all can cause life-changing scars.
5 million people in the UK live with a life-changing scar, and all the physical and emotional problems that come with them. Scars can affect how you move, how you look, and how you feel about yourself.
Behind Every Scar There’s a Story.
Painful and debilitating, living with scars can mean years of physiotherapy, creams, injections, and surgeries. Learn more about the impact of scarring.
Research Can Stop Scarring.
For now, scars are permanent and unavoidable. But they don’t have to be. At The Scar Free Foundation, we’re working to revolutionise the way we prevent and treat scarring – for everyone.
By funding the right research and backing the brightest minds, we’re accelerating breakthroughs to improve the lives of people with scarring, now and in the future.
With your help, we can deliver new treatments to people who need them, faster. Together, we will achieve scar free healing within a generation.
Our research strategy is focused on three priority areas
Identify
We’re uncovering the biological pathways that lead to scarring.
Change
We’re pioneering new treatments to improve wound healing and prevent scarring.
Support
We’re helping people with scars live positive, independent lives.
Will you help us discover the next research breakthrough?
“With your support, we can better understand how scars form and heal. Please donate to The Scar Free Foundation today.”
Professor Janet Lord, Emeritus Professor of Immune Cell Biology University of Birmingham
Simon’s Story
“To end up with a scar free world, wouldn’t it be wonderful?”
Our Lead Ambassador, Simon Weston CBE, survived severe burns to his face and body after his ship was attacked during the Falklands War.
News and views
New Scar Free Lottery will support trailblazing research
You could win up to £25,000 if you have a flutter on the Foundation to support cutting-edge research.
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Scar Free Chief Investigator appointed OBE in King’s Birthday Honours
Professor Iain Whitaker, Chief Investigator at The Scar Free Foundation Programme of Reconstructive Research, has today been named in the King’s Birthday Honours for Services to Plastic Surgery.
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VE Day 2025: Richard visits Belsen concentration camp to mark 80th anniversary of the liberation
Richard reflects on his visit to Belsen, which formed part of the Association of Ex-Jewish Servicemen and Women’s Commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the liberation.
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