From the FDA Drug Label
INACTIVE INGREDIENTS Water, Glycerin, Tetrahydroxypropyl Ethylenediamine, Dimethicone, Butylene Glycol, Cyclohexasiloxane, Cetyl Alcohol, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Squalane, PPG-2 Myristyl Ether Propionate, Pentaerythrityl Tetraethylhexanoate, Styrene/Acrylates Copolymer, Diethylhexyl 2,6-Naphthalate, Aluminum Starch Octenylsuccinate, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-75 Stearate, Polyacrylamide, Glycolic Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Pentylene Glycol, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, C13-14 Isoparaffin, Ceteth-20, Steareth-20, Methylparaben, Tocopheryl Acetate, Fragrance, Propylparaben, Ethylparaben, Laureth-7, BHT, Disodium EDTA, Cyclopentasiloxane, p-Anisic Acid, Allantoin, Polysorbate 20, Retinol, Ascorbic Acid, Hydroxyphenyl Propamidobenzoic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Scar creams containing silicone are the most effective treatment for reducing the appearance of scars, and should be applied twice daily for at least 8-12 weeks for new scars, and up to 6 months for older scars. The use of silicone gel sheets and gels has been consistently shown to improve scar outcomes in numerous high-quality randomized controlled trials 1. Silicone works by creating a protective barrier that increases hydration and regulates collagen production, preventing excessive scarring.
When selecting a scar cream, look for products containing silicone, such as Mederma Advanced Scar Gel or ScarAway Silicone Gel. Other beneficial ingredients to consider include onion extract, vitamin E, and hyaluronic acid. However, the evidence for these ingredients is limited compared to silicone 1.
Some key points to consider when using scar creams include:
- Apply a thin layer to clean, dry skin twice daily
- Massage the cream into the scar for 1-2 minutes during application
- Use sunscreen (SPF 30+) over the scar when exposed to sunlight to prevent darkening
- Consistency in application is key for improvement, as results vary depending on scar type, age, and individual skin characteristics
For severe or persistent scars, prescription options like steroid creams may be necessary, but these should only be used under medical supervision 2. Intralesional injections, laser therapy, and other treatments may also be considered for hypertrophic and keloid scars, but the evidence for these treatments is still emerging 2.
Overall, silicone-based scar creams are a safe and effective treatment for reducing the appearance of scars, and should be the first-line treatment for most patients.