Posted by Warren M on 7th Nov 2022
While some people consider their scars to be marks of pride, many people just want them to go away. Since they can affect your appearance, they can make you feel self-conscious.
If you want to get rid of an old scar, you need to understand what a scar is and what type you’re trying to get rid of.
How do scars form?
A scar forms as part of the natural healing process following an injury. When the dermis (the second layer of skin) is damaged, your body forms collagen fibres to repair the damage, resulting in a scar.
In most cases, the faster a wound heals, the less collagen will be deposited, and the less noticeable the scar will be.
Typically, the severity of the scar is based on the severity of the injury or damage. They form differently on different parts of the body and based on the age of the injured person.
Silicone gel sheet scar treatment.
Silicone gels or sheets are soft flexible dressings which can be used on healing skin (not open wounds) to help soften and flatten a scar. They can also relieve itching and discomfort caused by the scar.
To be effective, silicone gels or sheets should be placed over the scar for 12 hours a day for at least 3 months. They can be washed and reused.
How does it work?
It is not clear exactly how Silicone works on a scar. Some research suggests that the silicone creates a protective barrier over the scar which allows it to mature while helping to prevent production of excess scar tissue. The silicone layer also assists with hydration of the scar.
Where can I buy silicone gel sheets?
There are different brands of silicone gel sheet available the most popular being Mepiform and Siltape. These can be bought from our online shop by clicking on the links below.
How do I use a silicone gel sheet?
- Ensure that the affected area is clean and dry.
- Wipe off any excess cream if you have been using cream to massage.
- Remove the protective backing on the sheet and place the sticky side on your skin.
- Wear the sheet for 12 hours a day.
- Wash the gel sheet daily using lukewarm soapy water, rinse well and dry by patting it with a non-fluffy towel.
- Wear the same piece of silicone until it starts to deteriorate, then replace it with a new piece.
Mepiform will last for 1-2 weeks.
Keep gel sheets in a clean, plastic tub when not using it. Store gel sheets in a cool, dry place.
Precautions
Do not use the gel sheet on open wounds. If you develop a wound in your scar, remove the gel sheet and keep it safe until the wound is healed.
Don’t forget to wash the gel sheet. A build-up of dirt or bacteria may irritate the scar.
Do not throw the gel sheet away if you develop any irritation or redness in response to using it. Remove the sheet, wash and dry your skin. Leave the sheet off until the symptoms resolve, then try it again, building up the skin tolerance slowly.
Before using silicone gel sheets its always advised to consult with your doctor before using to see if they are the correct treatment for you.
How long should I continue to use a silicone gel sheet on my scar?
90 days is the recommended initial treatment period. However, you may be advised to continue to use it for longer than this by your therapist depending on the appearance and age of the scar.
