From the FDA Drug Label
Directions Adults and children 18 years of age and older: Apply a thin film of cream to affected area and gently rub in until fully absorbed. Warnings For external use only ... Do not use • On wounds or damaged skin. The answer is no, there is no information that directly supports the use of this cream to treat a painful scar, as the label warns against using the product on damaged skin and does not explicitly mention scars, and the indication for use is not specified 1 1.
From the Research
Yes, silicone-based creams are the most effective option for treating painful scars, as they create a protective barrier, improve hydration, and reduce tension, according to the most recent and highest quality study 2. When it comes to treating painful scars, there are several options available.
- Silicone-based products like Scaraway, Mederma, and Kelo-cote are effective options that create a protective barrier over the scar, helping to reduce pain and improve appearance.
- For pain specifically, topical analgesics containing lidocaine (such as Lidocaine 4% or 5% cream) can provide temporary relief when applied 3-4 times daily.
- Prescription options include gabapentin cream (5-10%) or amitriptyline/ketamine compounds that may help with nerve-related pain in scars.
- Steroid creams like hydrocortisone (over-the-counter at 1% strength) or prescription-strength triamcinolone can reduce inflammation and associated pain. The use of silicone gel sheeting has been shown to be effective in improving scar appearance and reducing pain, as demonstrated in a study published in 2016 2. In addition to silicone-based products, other treatments such as intralesional injections of corticosteroids and/or 5-fluorouracil, cryotherapy, radiotherapy, laser therapy, and surgical excision may be used alone or as part of combination therapy, as recommended by an international multidisciplinary group of experts on scar management 3. It's essential to note that the management of scars should be individualized, and the amount of scar management measures applied to each wound depends on the patient's risk of developing a scar and their level of concern about the scar's appearance 3. Regular re-evaluation of patients every four to eight weeks is crucial to evaluate whether additional treatment is warranted 3. If a scar remains painful despite these treatments, it's essential to consult a healthcare provider as it may indicate an underlying issue requiring different management.