From the Research
Silicone can help improve the appearance of a one-year-old scar, with the most recent and highest quality study suggesting its effectiveness in scar management 1.
Key Points to Consider
- Silicone sheets, gels, or ointments applied directly to the scar can be effective for scar management even after the scar has matured.
- For best results, apply silicone products like Scaraway, Mederma, or Biocorneum gel to the scar twice daily for at least 12 weeks.
- When using silicone sheets, wear them for 12-24 hours per day, removing only for cleaning.
- Before application, ensure the scar is clean and dry.
- Silicone works by creating a protective barrier that increases hydration of the scar tissue and regulates collagen production, helping to flatten raised scars, reduce redness, and improve overall scar texture.
- While complete elimination of the scar is unlikely, consistent use of silicone products can significantly improve its appearance, with results varying depending on individual factors like skin type, scar severity, and consistent application 2, 3, 4.
Mechanism of Action
The exact mechanism of action of silicone in improving scar appearance is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve occlusion and hydration of the stratum corneum, with subsequent cytokine-mediated signaling from keratinocytes to dermal fibroblasts 4.
Clinical Evidence
Clinical trials and studies have shown that silicone gel sheeting can reduce the incidence of hypertrophic scarring and improve the appearance of established scars, with some studies suggesting that silicone gel is equivalent in efficacy to traditional silicone gel sheeting but easier to use 1, 2.
Recommendations
Based on the most recent and highest quality study, silicone is recommended as a first-line treatment for scar management, with consistent use of silicone products likely to significantly improve the appearance of a one-year-old scar 1.