How to use silicone scar tape for optimal results
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/GettyImages-1306067239-4851da338e304d81b9ec6f9163531d4d.jpg?w=780&resize=780,470&ssl=1)
A silicone scar tape, also known as silicone gel sheet and silicone scar sheets, is a medical quality adhesive that can minimize the appearance of scars.
Jump at the main dishes to remember.
Images Saito Fam / Getty
How does the silicone scar tape work?
The silicone scar tape is a flexible and flexible self-adherence tape with a layer of silicone that is applied to the skin after healing an injury, like a cut.
The injured skin takes about two weeks to heal. When the skin healed and grouped, the new upper layer of the skin allows a lot of water to escape the skin. This lack of hydration leads to an excess collagen formation on the site, creating undesirable characteristics which can accompany the scars.
Another way than the silicone scar tape is to transfer the tension from the edge of the wound to the ribbon. This can reduce abnormal and cheloid scars. The scar strip also works by:
- Apply a pressure on the skin
- Keep the wound clean
- Increase the temperature of the wound site
- Decreases blood flow to the site of the immediate wound
Steps to use silicone scar tape
- When the wound has closed, cut the strip to the waist and apply it to cover the scar site.
- Wear the silicone adhesive tape daily for best results.
- Change the adhesive tape every day, ideally after the bath.
It is important to note that you should not apply silicone adhesive tape to open wounds or infected areas.
The scars change in appearance during the first year of their development. As such, the band can take months to reduce the color, texture and overall appearance of the scar.
Silicone scar tape for wrinkles
Silicone ribbon and patches are on the market to reduce wrinkles. Although these products claim to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, no existing research supports this. These bands and patches probably affect wrinkles by trapping humidity, which hydrates the skin. This can temporarily help the appearance of the skin but will have no long -term effect on wrinkles.
What precautions and side effects should you know?
The silicone scar tape is generally well tolerated. However, some people may experience side effects of the product.
Some people may develop skin irritation, redness or itching. They should avoid using the scar strip and discuss other options with their health care provider.
Another problem with silicone adhesive tape is patient compliance. Some people may find it difficult to wear it every day for several weeks to months. There may also be an aversion to carry it on visible areas like the face.
Differences in the silicone gel vs band
The silicone gel and band are two similar products that offer many of the same advantages. They both treat the scars by minimizing them:
The main difference between the two products is the way they are provided and applied. A silicone scar tape is provided in the form of an adhesive tape. It can be cut at the waist, then stuck on the scar. Silicone gel is an ointment that is applied to the scar.
Silicone gel can be a better solution for the areas of the body where the ribbon cannot stick. People who don’t want the appearance of the adhesive tape to their skin can prefer it.
The silicone scar ribbon could be a better solution for people who do not want to worry about the frost that disintegrates or to have a larger area than they have to cover.
When to see a health care provider
The scars can change and vary in appearance. As such, there is no perfect treatment. Some people are more prone to abnormal scars, such as chélooid and hypertrophic scars. Whenever a scar does not heal as planned or you have questions, it is time to contact a health care provider.
There are several types of scar treatment beyond silicone. Many treatments, such as injections and lasers, need a supplier to perform them. Contact a health care provider if you want to explore additional treatment for a scar to reduce their appearance, if it does not cure properly or if you have any questions.
Main to remember
- Silicone gel treatments is the treatment recommended by the first line to reduce the appearance of scars.
- The silicone scar tape should be used daily for several weeks or months to see the results.
- Contact a health care provider if the appearance of the scar does not improve or if it worsens.