Scarsilk
Scarsilk (silicone) is a first-choice treatment for certain types of scars. It can be used for old and new scars from burns, surgery, or trauma wounds. Scarsilk (silicone) comes as a gel and pads that are used on the skin. Some side effects of Scarsilk (silicone) include redness, stinging, and burning. But these side effects should be temporary and tend to go away with time. Scarsilk is brand name only and requires a prescription, but there are other silicone products that are available over the counter.
What is Scarsilk (silicone)?
What is Scarsilk (silicone) used for?
- Improve the look of hypertrophic or keloid scars from procedures, burns, or other wounds
How Scarsilk (silicone) works
Scarsilk (silicone) contains medical-grade silicone that's applied to the skin. Researchers have discovered many different ways silicone can help treat scars, such as keeping the skin hydrated and protecting it from further damage.
Drug facts
Side effects of Scarsilk (silicone)
The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.
Common Side Effects
- Redness
- Stinging
- Burning
- Skin irritation
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Pros and cons of Scarsilk (silicone)
Pros
- First-choice option for scar management
- Available as a gel and pads
- Gel is colorless and odorless
- Pads can be cut to fit the size of your scar
- Can be used alone or with other scar treatments
Cons
- Requires a prescription from a healthcare provider
- Not for use on third-degree burns or open wounds
- Must apply the gel twice a day
- Must use daily for 2 to 6 months (depending on type of scar) to see results
- Can cause irritated skin where applied
Pharmacist tips for Scarsilk (silicone)
- Before using Scarsilk (silicone), clean and dry your scar(s).
- If you got sutures, make sure they're removed from your wound before using Scarsilk (silicone).
- Don't use Scarsilk (silicone) on broken skin. Make sure your wond has closed up (you can use it right away on old scars).
- There isn't enough information to know if Scarsilk (silicone) is safe to use while pregnant or breastfeeding. Talk to your provider about the risks and benefits of using this medication.
- Store Scarsilk (silicone) at room temperature and away from children and pets. If someone you know accidentally swallows this medication, call a Poison Center right away at 800-222-1222.
Additional tips for the pads
- You can cut the pads to fit your scar, but make sure to leave 1/4-inch beyond the area of the scar.
- When you're ready to apply a new pad, remove the backing and place the pad sticky side down on the affected area.
Additional tips for the gel
- After each use, massage Scarsilk (silicone) gel into the affected area(s) for a few minutes.
- Wait until the Scarsilk (silicone) gel is dry before covering the area with cosmetics or sunscreen.
Common questions about Scarsilk (silicone)
Scarsilk (silicone) is used to improve the looks of old and new hypertrophic or keyloid scars. Some types of scars it can be used for include raised scars, scars from surgeries like C-section, and scars from injuries. Your provider can determine what type of scar you have and whether Scarsilk (silicone) is a good option to help treat it.
It's hard to say whether Scarsilk (silicone) gel is better than Scarsilk (silicone) pad. Both Scarsilk (silicone) gel and pad contain medical grade silicone and work in the same way to improve the look of scars. But your provider might choose one over the other depending on your personal preference. For example, Scarsilk (silicone) gel might be a better choice if your scar is in a location that's more visible or in a place that tends to rub against clothing. In these cases, the Scarsilk (silicone) pad might make your scar look more noticeable or it can fall off more easily when rubbed against clothing, so you might want the Scarsilk (silicone) gel instead. On the other hand, you might prefer the Scarsilk (silicone) patch if you don't like the fact the gel takes time to dry or that you need to rub it into your skin for up to 5 minutes. Ask your provider if you've more questions about the differences between Scarsilk (silicone) gel and pad.
No. Scarsilk (silicone) requires a prescription from a healthcare provider. However, there are many silicone products available OTC. Your provider can help guide you to the best options to treat your scar(s).
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Risks and warnings for Scarsilk (silicone)
Scarsilk (silicone) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.
Skin irritation
Rarely, Scarsilk (silicone) can cause a rash, redness, stinging, burning, or irritation where it's applied on the skin. These side effects should be temporary. But if they're bothersome and don't going away with time, stop using Scarsilk (silicone) and contact your provider.
For use on intact skin only
Only use Scarsilk (silicone) on your skin where you have a scar. Don't use it on broken skin, third-degree burns, open wounds, wounds that currently have sutures, or any area that's crusting over. This could lead to infections or other problems. Avoid getting Scarsilk (silicone) in your eyes, nose, mouth, or genitals.
Scarsilk (silicone) dosage
Typical dosage for Scarsilk (silicone)
- Scarsilk (silicone) gel: The typical dose is to apply a thin layer to the affected area(s) twice a day.
- Scarsilk (silicone) pads: The typical dose is to apply one pad to the affected area(s) for 8-12 hours daily or as instructed by your provider.
