Scar Treatment Tip #8: When searching for scar treatment products, check the ingredient lists for silicone/dimethicone. This is the only ingredient documented to be effective on scars in scientific studies published in reputable medical journals. Other ingredients may be good for your skin, but in some cases, may actually decrease effectiveness when added to scar treatment products.
Before using anything to treat your scars, a good rule of thumb is to talk with your dermatologist first. This way, you can use scar treatment products with confidence.
So why is silicone so good for scars? Its effectiveness has been proven time and time again in medical studies. According to the National Institutes of Health, topical silicone gel treatments are the top clinical recommendation in scar management. Silicone is a mineral that has many healing properties, and is therefore used in a variety of applications. According to WebMD, it is great for:
- Osteoporosis
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Alzheimer’s Disease
- Hair loss
- Hair and nail strength
- Digestive system disorders
- Sprains and strains
- Skin healing, i.e., reduces the appearance of scars
Traditionally, silicone treatments have taken the form of thick sheets, which are effective but difficult to apply and inconvenient. That’s what makes topical silicone gel treatments so much better. Gel is far easier to apply, just as effective, and can be massaged into the skin. Once applied, they are unnoticeable to others, and, you can easily apply sunscreen or makeup over them.
Acting as a barrier to water loss, silicone helps lock in moisture, which is what skin needs to heal and thrive. Wounds don’t heal as effectively if they are dry. Silicone gel works its magic on the top layer of the skin, called the epidermis.
Not only has it been proven to improve scar appearance, it also reduces that raw, red appearance indicative of scarring. It also relieves pain and itching, with the ability to treat all types of scars, such as hypertrophic scars. In addition, it can soften scars and boost skin elasticity, which helps them heal. The worst thing for scars is dry skin. It doesn’t stretch as well, plus it can lead to redness, itchiness, and even re-opening of a recent wound. Keep your scar moist at all times.
Silicone/dimethicone is present in many over the counter scar treatment gels, like Scarfade Scar Gel. When used as directed, Scarfade can reduce the appearance of scars originating from cuts, scrapes, burns, and surgeries. Thanks to the silicone component, it helps the body regulate collagen production so wounds heal more cleanly and evenly.
Try Scarfade today and see for yourself why silicone is the gold standard for treating scars!