What Is Silicone Scar Tape and Does It Work?

Silicone has been used since 1982 to minimize the appearance of scars and speed up the healing process. You can apply topical silicone gel directly to the affected area of your skin, but many people prefer to use silicone scar tape. 

These adhesives–also called silicone gel sheets, patches, or strips–help to treat symptoms like redness and swelling after a wound closes up. Many plastic surgeons recommend using them to prevent the formation of raised scars after a procedure.

Learn more about silicone scar tape, including how it works, when and how to use it, and what research says about its effectiveness in treating scars.

How Silicone Scar Tapes Work

Silicone scar tapes are soft, flexible, thin, and self-adhesive strips or sheets that contain a thick sheet of silicone gel. You can apply them yourself to a healed skin wound.

Although silicone adhesives have been used for decades, researchers aren’t entirely clear why they work so well in treating scars. Some researchers believe that silicone gel sheets work by:

• Keeping the skin wound closed, clean, protected, and hydrated
• Limiting blood flow to the affected area 
• Reducing tension in and around the scar site
• Applying pressure to the skin
• Preventing excessive collagen formation around the wound

Is Silicone Scar Tape Effective?

Research indicates that silicone scar tape, when used consistently and correctly, can help to reduce the following symptoms of a raised scar:

• Size
• Swelling
• Itchiness
• Redness
• Hardness
• Stiffness
• Thickening
• Discomfort

It can also prevent raised scars from developing or getting worse, particularly after surgical procedures.

When to Use Silicone Scar Tape

Silicone scar tapes can be applied to a closed keloid scar (a raised scar left after a wound has healed that is caused by excess scar tissue and can cause itchiness and discomfort) or hypertrophic (thick) scar. For example, they can be used on scrapes, cuts, minor burns, pressure sores, and surgical scars. They shouldn’t ever be used on broken skin, infected skin, or open wounds. 

Usually, you’ll need to wear silicone sheets for 12-24 hours per day–switching them out for new ones as directed–until your scar becomes less visible. This process could take weeks or months. Follow the directions on the package (or from your healthcare provider) closely in order to maximize effectiveness and prevent complications.

Because silicone scar tape has to be worn for many hours a day to be effective, it can sometimes cause skin irritation. Other potential side effects include skin breakdown, itchiness, and rashes. These complications are especially likely if you live in a hot, humid climate or have sensitive skin. 

If you experience any side effects from silicone scar adhesives, quit using them immediately and reach out to a dermatologist if necessary.

Is Silicone Gel or Tape Better for Scars?

Research suggests that both silicone gel and tape are effective in treating, managing, and preventing scars. Some studies indicate that they are about equally effective, while others have found that silicone gel sheets are superior.

Whether you should choose silicone scar tapes or ointment also depends on where your scar is located. Some people find scar tape more convenient because it can cover a large area of the skin at once and doesn’t have to be reapplied multiple times a day. Also, people who use topical silicone gel may have to avoid direct sunlight or take extra care in applying sunscreen to prevent hyperpigmentation. 

On the other hand, silicone gel has several distinct advantages as well. Scar tape may peel off easily if your scar is on an area of your body that moves frequently. It can also be difficult to apply to certain body parts, such as the face.

A Quick Review

Silicone scar tapes can help to reduce the appearance of existing scars and prevent thicker, raised ones from forming. They are safe, easy to use, and effective for most people with keloid or hypertrophic scars. They are particularly popular during the healing process after plastic surgery.

If you aren’t sure whether or not you should be using silicone sheets, talk to a dermatologist. They can help you decide what’s right for you. If you experience any side effects, such as skin irritation, stop using them right away.