Silicone scar sheets are a medical-grade treatment used to improve the appearance of scars by creating a protective, occlusive barrier over the tissue. This barrier regulates hydration, which signals the skin to slow down the overproduction of collagen. The gentle, consistent pressure also contributes to flattening and softening the scar tissue. Routine cleaning is necessary to maintain this therapeutic environment and ensure the sheet’s self-adhesive qualities remain effective.
The Essential Cleaning Procedure
Proper cleaning requires a mild, non-concentrated soap that is free from oils, moisturizers, and heavy fragrances, as these additives can leave a residue that compromises the silicone’s natural tackiness. A gentle, non-moisturizing hand soap or baby shampoo mixed with lukewarm water is an ideal solution. The goal of this process is to remove accumulated skin oils, dead skin cells, and any external debris.
Begin by applying a small amount of the chosen soap to the silicone sheet, which should be held under lukewarm running water. Use the pads of your fingertips to gently rub the adhesive surface of the sheet using a light, circular motion. Avoid scrubbing with excessive force or using abrasive materials like washcloths, brushes, or sponges, as these can permanently damage the silicone.
After cleaning, the sheet must be rinsed thoroughly under running, lukewarm water to ensure all soap residue is completely washed away. Remaining soap film will reduce the sheet’s ability to adhere to the skin. Once rinsed, the silicone will momentarily lose its tackiness but will regain it upon drying.
Drying and Storage Protocols
Following the wash, the silicone sheet must be air-dried only to preserve its structure and adhesive properties. Place the sheet, adhesive side up, on a clean, non-lint-producing surface, such as a plastic drying rack or a non-porous countertop. This method allows the water to evaporate naturally, which is crucial for the silicone to recover its stickiness.
Avoid using any type of towel, paper product, or cloth to dry the sheet, as fibers can embed themselves into the adhesive surface and reduce its effectiveness. Never use direct heat sources, such as a hairdryer, because high temperatures can irreversibly damage the silicone material. The sheet must be completely dry before reapplication to the skin.
When the sheet is not being worn, it requires proper storage to protect the adhesive surface from contaminants. The most effective method is to place the sheet, adhesive side down, onto the original plastic backing film it came with. If the original film is lost, store the sheet in a clean, resealable plastic bag or a dedicated storage container to keep it free from dust and debris.
Frequency and Replacement Guidelines
Cleaning the silicone sheet should be done once per day, such as when the sheet is removed for showering or bathing. Daily cleaning removes oils and dead skin cells that accumulate quickly and reduce the sheet’s adhesion. If the sheet is exposed to heavy sweating or becomes visibly soiled, a more frequent cleaning schedule may be necessary.
The sheet’s effectiveness relies on creating a continuous, occlusive seal that provides hydration and gentle pressure to modify the scar tissue. As the sheet is repeatedly washed and worn, its adhesive quality will gradually diminish.
The sheet must be replaced when it no longer maintains sufficient adhesion to stay securely in place, as this compromises consistent pressure on the scar. Depending on care, a single sheet can last anywhere from two to four weeks, or sometimes up to 45 days. Replacement is also needed if the sheet begins to fray, tear, or show other signs of structural deterioration that prevent it from lying flat against the skin.