No matter what you do, your wound may heal with or without a scab, a protective covering that the skin forms over the wound. However, if you keep the wound covered and moist, you’re less likely to end up with a scab. And if you do end up with a scab, it will heal more quickly. That’s why it’s important to keep wounds moist with a dab of petroleum jelly each day. A dry bandage will keep dirt and bacteria away and will help keep the wound moist, especially if you pair it with petroleum jelly. Because scabs can sometimes lead to scars, keeping a wound covered and moist will also reduce your chance of scarring.