This section was reviewed by Dr. Catherine Bergeret-Galley , a specialist in plastic, reconstructive, and aesthetic surgery, and president of the SNCPRE. The reviewer is responsible for the section's content within her specialty; articles are constantly evolving and not all are individually reviewed.
Silicone for scars : this issue must be considered within the context of discharge instructions and each individual's situation. Silicone for scars is commonly offered after surgery, in gel or sheet form. Its use may be appropriate for certain thick or high-risk scars, but it does not erase them and does not replace follow-up care. The available studies also have significant limitations that are rarely mentioned on product information pages.
This guide helps to understand the evidence, compare formats, and identify poor tolerance. It applies only to skin that has completely closed. For care prior to this stage, the surgeon's instructions and the post-operative dressing guide remain the primary guidelines.
Silicone for scars: what types of scars is silicone intended for?
Closed scars, sometimes thick or at risk
Silicone gels and sheets are primarily studied to prevent or reduce certain hypertrophic scars, that is, thick and raised scars that remain within the boundaries of the original wound. They are also considered for individuals who have already developed a pathological scar or when the location and the surgical procedure increase this risk.
A product never establishes a diagnosis
A red, firm, or uncomfortable scar is not automatically hypertrophic. Its appearance depends on the time elapsed since the operation, its location, tension, skin type, and any complications. After an abdominoplasty, for example, the information in the patient's chart about abdominoplasty scars helps prepare questions for the follow-up appointment but does not replace the examination itself.
What do the studies actually show?
A common recommendation, uncertain evidence
Silicone products are included in several scar management guidelines. However, the Cochrane review on silicone sheets judges the data from randomized controlled trials to be weak or very weak. The studies are often small, use different criteria, and make comparisons difficult.
A possible benefit is not a promise
A meta-analysis of trials on the gel suggests a possible improvement in some appearance scores. It does not allow us to conclude that a scar will disappear or to predict individual results. A scar evolves naturally over a long period; therefore, the observed improvement cannot always be attributed to the product alone.
Gel or sheet: can we designate a better format?
The frost follows moving or irregular areas.
A gel can be simpler to use on a joint, a visible area, or a raised area that's difficult to cover. It forms a film after drying and eliminates the need to cut a sheet. However, its effectiveness depends on the instructions, the skin type, and the ability to apply it without touching a still-sensitive area.
The leaf covers and protects, but can macerate
A sheet provides continuous coverage and can reduce friction. However, it doesn't adhere as well on certain curves, can peel off with perspiration, and cause irritation or a white, damp appearance. A direct comparison between the two formats is insufficient to declare a universal winner.
When should you not start?
- On an open, oozing wound or one whose edges are not joined.
- On an infected area, very hot or where the redness is progressing.
- On wires, staples or crusts without the team's agreement.
- After an unexplained skin reaction or an allergy to the device.
- When the output sheet requests a different protocol.
The concept of "closed skin" should be confirmed if the appearance seems uncertain. Do not remove a prescribed dressing to start earlier. The home recovery page explains why the procedure-specific instructions take precedence over any online schedule.
How can you choose without following marketing promises?
Check the status, instructions, and manufacturer
Look for a clearly labeled device, legible instructions, a manufacturer's name, and accessible precautions. The term "silicone" is insufficient if the product's intended use is unclear. Customer reviews and market ratings do not prove medical efficacy or compatibility with your scar.
Compare actual usage, not the slogan
Consider whether the format will fit the area, whether you can apply it easily, and whether your skin tolerates it. A large sheet can only be cut if the instructions allow it. A gel can be convenient but must not get into a wound. The surgeon or pharmacist can verify the suitability of your choice.
How can we use it without inventing a protocol?
Follow the device instructions and the team's guidelines. Daily duration, total duration, and maintenance are not the same for all products. Do not apply multiple products to the scar without prior approval, and do not automatically repeat the protocol from a previous procedure.
Commercial transparency: The following two cards link to two specifically identified silicone gels. Their images and buttons are affiliate links via Awin; GuideChirurgie may receive a commission without affecting the price paid. Compare the instructions and format only after confirming that the skin has fully healed. No product guarantees the outcome of a scar.
What to do in case of redness, itching or maceration?
Remove the product and observe the skin
Redness, itching, a rash, or white, moist skin under the sheet warrants immediate discontinuation of the device and notification. Do not immediately apply cream or antiseptic to mask the reaction. Note the product name, the time the reaction appeared, and take a photo if requested by the team.
Do not confuse irritation with infection
Spreading redness, localized heat, increasing pain, swelling, or cloudy discharge should prompt investigation for a possible complication. Fever or a general decline in health further underscores the need to contact the operating room office or the post-operative number provided upon discharge immediately. Silicone should not be used to conceal these signs.
When should a scar be examined?
Seek medical attention if the scar becomes very thick, extends beyond the original area, remains painful, restricts movement, or changes rapidly. After abdominal surgery or inguinal hernia repair , deep pain or swelling should not automatically be attributed to the skin.
A check-up is also useful when the appearance is impacting quality of life or when several treatments haven't made a difference. The professional can distinguish between expected changes and hypertrophic scarring, keloids, adhesions, or other complications, and discuss the most appropriate options.
The table below summarizes, for the two products mentioned above, the uses described in this guide and the points to check before purchasing; other practical information can be found in our post-operative equipment guides . The final choice should be confirmed with the healthcare team or pharmacist.
| Reference | Intended use | To check before purchase | Directions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dermatix, Silicone Gel 15 g | Silicone gel in a 15g tube, to be compared only on completely closed skin. | Instructions, composition, drying time and precautions; do not apply to an open wound, a weeping area, a mucous membrane or near the eyes. | Read the fact sheet |
| Kelo-Cote, Scar Reducing Gel 15 g | Second silicone gel of 15g, cited to compare the instructions and the format on closed skin. | Instructions for use, quantity and contraindications; discontinue use in case of irritation and seek advice if the scar changes. | Read the fact sheet |
You can also compare silicone gels and sheets on Amazon (paid affiliate link) ; the selection criteria remain those detailed above, to be validated with the healthcare team.
F.A.Q
Does silicone make a scar disappear?
No. It may help soften or flatten some scars, but the level of evidence is imperfect. No formula guarantees complete disappearance.
Can we start as soon as the threads are removed?
Not automatically. Removing the wires alone does not prove that the entire surface is ready. Wait for confirmation from the team and follow the instructions.
Is a thicker sheet more effective?
It cannot be deduced. Thickness, adhesion, or price are not enough to establish a profit. Tolerance, instructions, and indications matter more.
Verified sources
- Cochrane, Silicone gel sheets for hypertrophic scars
- Meta-analysis of randomized trials on silicone gel
- Practical multidisciplinary recommendations on scar management
- Updated algorithms for hypertrophic and keloid scars
- Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS, Use and adverse effects of silicone sheets
- Imperial College Healthcare NHS, Scar Care
Editorial note: General information article verified on July 16, 2026. The instructions of the medical-surgical team and the device instructions take precedence over this guide.
