Scars are a common result of skin injury, sometimes leading to raised, discolored marks. Keloids are a particular type of scar known for their distinct growth pattern. This article explores the effectiveness of silicone scar sheets for keloids, including their mechanism and application.
Understanding Keloids
Keloids are raised scars that develop after skin injury, growing beyond the original wound boundaries. Unlike hypertrophic scars, keloids expand into surrounding healthy skin, forming firm, rubbery, or shiny growths. They often appear reddish, purplish, or darker than the surrounding skin, and can cause itching, pain, or tenderness.
These scars commonly form in areas with higher skin tension, such as the chest, shoulders, earlobes, and upper arms. Genetic predisposition plays a role in keloid development, with individuals of African, Asian, and Hispanic descent having a higher likelihood of forming them. Keloids can arise from various skin traumas, including surgical incisions, acne, piercings, burns, or minor cuts.
How Silicone Scar Sheets Work
Silicone scar sheets are medical-grade, flexible sheets designed to improve scar appearance. They create an occlusive barrier over the scar, which hydrates the outermost layer of the skin by preventing excessive water loss. This increased hydration influences fibroblast activity, regulating collagen synthesis.
This regulation can lead to a reduction in the overproduction of collagen, a hallmark of raised scars. The gentle, consistent pressure exerted by the silicone sheet may also contribute to flattening and softening the scar tissue.
Effectiveness for Keloids
Silicone scar sheets are a first-line, non-invasive option for managing keloid scars. They are used for both prevention after wound healing and for improving the appearance of existing keloids. Consistent application can help flatten and soften keloid tissue, and may also reduce symptoms like itching and discomfort.
While silicone sheets can improve the color, thickness, and elasticity of keloids, complete removal is generally not expected. Consistent use can significantly reduce the formation of raised scars and improve their overall appearance. Individual results can vary depending on factors such as the keloid’s age and size, and how consistently the sheets are used.
Proper Application and Expectations
For optimal results, apply silicone scar sheets to clean, dry skin once the wound has fully closed. The sheet should extend at least half an inch beyond the scar area for full coverage. Most manufacturers recommend wearing silicone sheets for a minimum of 12 hours per day, with some suggesting up to 24 hours daily.
Noticeable improvements are often observed within 4 to 12 weeks of consistent use. For established or larger keloids, treatment may need to continue for 6 to 12 months or longer. Silicone sheets are reusable and typically last for 7 to 10 days, or up to 30-45 days with proper care, which involves daily washing with mild soap and water to maintain adhesion. While silicone sheets can improve keloid appearance, complete scar elimination is generally not achievable.
Other Treatment Options
While silicone scar sheets are a common approach, other treatment options exist for keloids, often used in combination. Corticosteroid injections directly into the keloid can help shrink the scar and reduce inflammation, though multiple sessions may be needed. Cryotherapy, which involves freezing the keloid with liquid nitrogen, can reduce its size and firmness, particularly for smaller lesions.
Laser therapy can reduce the height and redness of keloids, often in conjunction with other treatments like corticosteroid injections. Surgical excision may be an option for removing keloids, but it carries a high risk of recurrence, often necessitating adjunctive therapies such as radiation or pressure therapy to prevent regrowth. Consulting a healthcare professional is important for personalized advice and to determine the most suitable treatment plan.