Silicone scar sheets are medical-grade products, available as sheets, gels, or creams, designed to improve the look and feel of scars. They create a protective environment over the scar, minimizing visibility and promoting a smoother texture. They are a non-invasive option for scar management.
Understanding Silicone’s Effect on Scars
Silicone scar sheets influence scar healing through occlusion and hydration. The sheet forms a semi-occlusive barrier over the scar, reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL). This increased moisture signals the body to reduce excessive collagen production.
Sustained hydration softens rigid scar tissue, improving its pliability. The gentle, continuous pressure from the sheet also flattens and softens the scar. This pressure, along with moisture retention, helps regulate collagen synthesis, preventing hypertrophic and keloid scars.
Silicone also influences oxygen levels and modulates cytokine expression, decreasing pro-scarring TGF-β levels. This biochemical fine-tuning balances the healing environment, discouraging bulky scar tissue formation. These combined effects reduce collagen overproduction.
Applying and Maintaining Silicone Scar Sheets
Before applying, ensure the scar area is clean and dry. Lotions or creams interfere with adhesion. Trim the sheet to cover the scar, extending 2 centimeters onto healthy skin.
Apply the sheet smoothly, avoiding wrinkles or air bubbles. Wear silicone sheets for a minimum of 12 hours per day, ideally up to 24 hours, with short breaks for cleaning. Gradually increase wear time for skin adaptation.
To maintain hygiene, clean the sheet daily with mild, fragrance-free soap and lukewarm water. Gently rub to remove debris or oils, then rinse thoroughly. Lay the sheet adhesive side up on a clean, lint-free surface to air dry before reapplying.
What to Expect From Silicone Scar Sheet Treatment
Silicone scar sheets are most effective for hypertrophic scars and keloids, which are raised and thickened. They also benefit new surgical scars, helping prevent abnormal scar formation. While less effective for atrophic (pitted) or very old scars, they can still offer some improvement.
With consistent use, expect softening, flattening, and lightening of the scar, along with reduced itching and discomfort. Results are not immediate; noticeable improvements typically appear after 2 to 4 months of consistent daily use. For more severe or older scars, treatment may continue for 6 to 12 months or longer. Adhering to recommended daily wear time and proper maintenance is important for optimal outcomes.