What is it?
A silicone gel sheet is a soft, flexible, self-adhesive dressing that is applied over scars. Silicone can help to improve the colour, height and texture of a scar and can help to make the scar flatter and paler. It can also relieve itching and discomfort.
How does it work?
It is not clear exactly how silicone works on a scar. Silicone can assist with hydration of the scar and some research suggests that it helps to form a protective barrier over the scar.
Types of silicone
- Silicone gel sheeting for instance Cica-care (a clear, thick, gel sheet ) will last for approximately 4 weeks.
- Mepiform (a thin, beige coloured dressing) will last for 1-2 weeks. This is non reusable so a new dressing should be applied each time after cleaning and massaging the scar
- Topical gel
How do I use a silicone gel sheet?
There are many forms of silicone; these range from a gel to a scar sheet. The scar gel sheets (not Mepiform) are usually reusable and should not be thrown away after single use.
You should build up to wearing the scar sheet. Follow the instructions for that particular product and initially wear the gel sheet for 4 hours the first 2 days. Then build up from there. Mepiform is usually worn continuously for 3-7 days but build your skin tolerance up to this.
The gel scar sheet can be washed with warm, soapy water after use. Pat the sheet dry with a non-fluffy towel. Wear the same piece of silicone until it starts to deteriorate, then replace it with a new piece.
The topical gel usually dries in 3-5 minutes and can last 6-8 hours.
You should only apply silicone (in any form) to clean, dry skin and not on open or weeping wounds.
Precautions
- Some people may have a reaction to the silicone products. If you notice any redness, remove the silicone and wash the area with cold water. Contact your therapist and don’t re-apply.
- 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.
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.
Useful sources of information
NHS Scars – www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Scars/Pages/Treatment
Contact information
Should you have any questions or concerns please get in touch on 0191 445 2320, Queen Elizabeth Hospital physiotherapy department.