Silicone scar sheets can be used on both new and old scars. They may be more effective on newer scars, but older scars can still benefit from treatment. Results may vary depending on the age and severity of the scar.
Ideally, you should start using silicone scar sheets as soon as the wound closes completely. However, for older scars, silicone sheets can still help significantly by softening and flattening the scar tissue. This can make the scar less noticeable and relieve any discomfort or itching associated with it.
Clinical studies show benefits of silicone therapy on scars up to 4 years old.
For optimal results, you should start using silicone scar products as soon as your wound is fully closed. This timing helps to create the best environment for minimizing scar formation.
As a general rule of thumb, you need to wait until your incisions are healed and have no further bleeding, crusting and oozing. Most people can start using silicone strips about 1 to 2 weeks after the procedure.
How long do silicone scar sheets take to show results? Results vary depending on the individual and the type of scar. Some people may notice improvements within a few weeks, while others may require several months of treatment. For best results, consistently use silicone scar sheets as directed for at least 2-4 months.
Use silicone gel
Aside from avoiding strenuous activity after surgery, the best thing you can do for your scar is to apply a silicone gel or sheet and massage it.
How Long Do You Leave on Silicone Scar Sheets? For optimal results, silicone scar sheets should be worn for at least 12 hours a day, and can be worn up to 24 hours if comfortable. Consistent use over several months is recommended to see significant improvements in scar appearance (Fulton, 1995).
When it comes to diminishing the appearance of scars, the choice between silicone gel and sheets boils down to your personal preference. Both methods are equally effective when used consistently as part of your skincare routine.
Safety considerations. Silicone scar tape is generally safe and is associated with minimal side effects, some of which may include itching, rash, breakdown of skin under the tape, foul smell, redness, swelling, or increased pain.
Silicone sheets and silicone tape should be applied constantly for at least 3- 4 months. They should be removed daily for bathing and then reapplied. If irritation develops, or if the scar is in a cosmetically obvious location, the sheet can be worn at night only.
Mederma is the best it's truly does fade and heal new scars and fade old scars to your original skin tone.
Silicone strips can be particularly effective for surgical scars as they can be cut to size to fit the scar area. Atrophic Scars: These are indented scars that form when underlying structures supporting the skin, such as fat or muscle, are lost.
Scar Process
It will take six to 18 months for the scar to have its final appearance. Your scar should gradually soften and fade over these six to 18 months, but will look pink initially (photo B). Some scars never fade. If your scar stays pink after 12 to 18 months please call to discuss options.
In the battle between silicone gel and Vaseline for scar treatment, silicone gel emerges as the clear winner. Its clinically proven benefits in improving scar characteristics, maintaining hydration, and reducing abnormal collagen deposition make it the preferred choice for both patients and healthcare providers.
The longer the silicone is in contact with your skin, the faster you may see results. Each sheet is washable and durable for up to 7-10 days of use. ScarAway Clear Silicone Scar Sheet can be worn up to 7-10 consecutive days.
At sites where it is impractical to wear a sheet of silicone, topical scar creams containing silicone (dimethicone) appear to be the next best alternative. Other scar creams including Mederma and Aloe Vera are all probably better than leaving the scar dry but may not be superior to plain Vaseline.
To achieve optimum results from pressure therapy require 6–12 months constant wear. Application of silicone gel sheets or gel formulated in a tube.
CVS Scar Treatment Silicone Sheets are thin, self-adhesive, fabric-backed sheets that improve the appearance of existing scars and help prevent the formation of new scars. The sheets can minimize the appearance of discolored or raised scars, and even occasionally scars that are years old.
Caring for your silicone gel sheet
Wash daily in a mild non-oily soap solution and rinse in clean warm water. Air dry and reapply to the clean dry scar area. Avoid using paper products for drying as it may stick to the silicone. Between use, store silicone in a plastic bag/container with plastic backing sheet.
Breathable Silicone technology results in increased hydration of the skin. This increased hydration ensures that the damaged, scarred skin recovers more quickly and that problems caused by the scar are reduced. Each sheet provides UV protection (UPF50) as standard to also help protect the scar from further damage.
Once your surgical incisions have healed and no longer have scabbing or open areas, you can start using your gel strips. Remove gel sheeting from packaging and trim, if necessary, to fit. Sheet should extend at least ½ inch beyond the area.
For best results, you should perform scar massage for at least 10 minutes, twice a day, for six months. You should only stop sooner than that if the scar starts showing signs of infection or you experience intolerable discomfort.
Use silicone products
Silicone products, such as silicone sheets and gels, can keep your scar moisturized and help it heal. You can use them under your makeup and clothing.