Scars, whether due to burns, cuts, disease or the aftermath of surgery, stand out from surrounding skin. They can range from disfiguring to mildly noticeable. Some types of scars can even be painful. Some people scar easily. Scars occur when fibrous tissue fills in a wound. Scars allow the body to heal, but getting rid of scars can be a challenge. In some cases, silicone can reduce the appearance or severity of scars.
Types
Silicone is a synthetic compound with a clear, rubber-like appearance. Silicone is inert, meaning it won't react with other substances such as metal. Used for prostheses and breast implants, silicone can also be made in a gel form for use in treating scars. You can purchase flexible fabric sheets impregnated with silicone, or apply silicone gels that dry to thin sheets. You can even have silicone injected into smaller scars.
How It Works
Silicone forms a protective barrier over the area to keep the scar moist and keep out bacteria. According to Neerja Puri and Ashutosh Talwar of the Department of Dermatology of Guro Gobind Singh Medical College, this helps to soften and flatten the scar. In the case of injectible silicone, the silicone acts as a filler for acne scars.
Results
In a 2009 study of 30 patients with scars, Puri and Talwar found that twice-daily application of silicone gel reduced the appearance of both raised, or keloid scars, and flatter, or hypertrophic scars. Newer scars responded best, though even older scars were flattened and faded by the treatment in most cases. J.G. and C.R. Barnett of the Dermatology Clinical Research Unit at Columbia University Medical Center followed five patients who received injections of liquid silicone in acne scars. The silicone filled in the scars and the results lasted as long as 30 years.
Alternatives
You can cover small scars with makeup, but this isn't practical for larger areas, or places where clothing might rub off the makeup. Surgery to remove scars may result in a smaller scar, but this is a good alternative for jagged or very visible scars. Lasers, chemical peels and dermabrasion help to lighten some scars. Doctors can sometimes fill in scars from acne or other types of small, pitted scars with collagen.
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