What is the best way to reduce or prevent scarring from massive scrapes on the side of my body? i hit pavement at high speeds and my ride side bore the brunt. we scrubbed with a sponge, soap, & water.

Massive scrapes: Soap and water is not enough. Since you have broken the skin i would apply an antibiotic ointment to your scrapes to avoid serious infection.

Antibiotics: Often a combination of oral and topical antibiotics will help large abrasions heal more quickly. Once they have healed, products such as biafine or scarguard can help minimize the appearance of scars. If scars are more prominent, they can also be treated with injections or laser treatments. Consult a dermatologist to help you for optimal results. Good luck and hope you feel better soon.

Suggestions...: Scarring is a function of # of skin layers (depth), time (how long a wound is open), genetics, skin color, continued trauma. Hydroxy acids, dermabrasion techniques and creams can be of help. Wearing additional layers, keeping injured areas continuously & scrupulously clean & getting a dermatologists opinion are appropriate here. Good luck and..Take it easier!

Superfast healing: The real question is what not to do that slows down healing. Avoid using alcohol, peroxide, hibiclens, betadine, and bleach solutions. Inflammation ( red, hot, swollen, tender) is important to healing so anti-inflammatories (motrin, advil) are bad. Cover the area with a clean dressing changed every other day and protected from trauma. Antibiotics do not help healing unless it is truly infected.

Local hygiene: Wash with soap and water, apply antibiotic ointment and keep the area covered. If the skin has healed use Mederma several times a day. Check your tetanus status.