Silicone Sheeting | Scar Reduction

Cream, oil or silicone patch? Which one should I use?

October 22nd, 2009 |

Author: admin

With all the different scar reduction products available online, I thought I would try and bring a little clarity to the whole picture. I have found it confusing, to say the least when trying to decide what approach and what product to consider.

I read about this cream, that oil and that the best thing is silicone patches. To be honest, I’ve read positive things about all the different types of approaches. I’ve also heard less favourable things too.

The general feeling and understanding that I have arrived at is that most products are reasonably safe if they’re not abused or over used. The effectiveness of the different products varies dramatically and as with all things, some products seem to suite some people more than others. The type of problem to be addressed will also dictate your choice.

There are certain product properties that are considered to be essential to its effectiveness. The ability to reduce inflammation which is created when skin is damaged and contributes to scar formation. To hydrate the site as damaged skin loses moisture more quickly. Cover the scar. This may be best achieved by using silicone sheets which are considered by the medical profession to be the ‘gold standard’ in scar reduction. How silicone sheets work is still not clearly understood but it is believed that they hydrate, they are anti-inflammatory, allow breathing and provide warmth which helps to stimulate the regeneration process. Silicone sheets also help to reduce the movement and stretching of a scar which, in excess is counter productive to healing. Gentle massage also helps as it can break up the scar tissue and again aid regeneration.

As hydration is seen as crucial to scar reduction, the use of silicone sheeting with a quality cream that hydrates and is easily absorbed is considered to be extremely effective.

Hopefully I have helped to clarify some of the factors important in scar reduction and removal products. When researching for yourself, it’s always prudent to seek information that is objective and gives the pros and cons of any product.