Silicone can sometimes produce mild redness or irritation in the skin if worn for too long before building up tolerance. Frank allergic reactions are very rare.
Scars & Burns by Mr Ioannis Goutos
Topical Management (Silicone)
At a glance
Treatment time:
6-12 months depending on the type of agent used, scar characteristics and treatment goals.
Duration:
Typically provide long lasting effects.
Return to work:
No time off work needed
Anaesthetic:
None
When skin becomes injured through a wound or burn, it heals itself by forming a scar to replace the area of damaged tissue.
A scar is formed through a complex pathway, during which replacement tissues, such as collagen, are laid down. Sometimes, the tissues will contain too much or too little collagen, resulting in scars that become troublesome due to being unsightly, painful or itchy. For example, hypertrophic and keloid scars, which are often present with protuberance from the skin, can commonly cause distressing symptoms.
There are a number of treatments to improve both the appearance and associated symptoms of hypertrophic scars, including the application of topical gels or sheets that are comprised of silicone. These are non-invasive treatments (meaning that they do not involve any needles, injections or surgery) that aim to improve the colour, texture, height and discomfort of the scar. They are relatively safe treatments that can be used as adjuncts in promoting good initial scar formation or in combination with other therapies for treating longstanding scarring.
Mr Ioannis Goutos is a leading plastic surgeon in the care of individuals with scars and burns. He has a wealth of experience to assess and discuss a wide array of treatment options in line with your current situation and aesthetic goals. He often advocates for the use of topical treatments in those who are prone to develop unfavourable scarring following injury or surgery, or in conjunction with other therapies, to provide optimal outcomes for each individual.
Book your consultation today
Book nowAbout this treatment
One of the main agents used in the topical treatment of burns and scars is silicone, in the form of sheets or gels. Topical treatments should never be used on open wounds, and should only be applied once the skin is fully closed to improve the overall appearance of the scar as it develops. They can also be of use in established scarring.
Silicone can be applied in a variety of forms, including sheets, dressings or as a gel. It is thought that the silicone improves the maturation of scar tissue by creating a protective barrier over the skin, increasing hydration in the area, and preventing the overproduction of collagen. This should help to produce a final scar that is softer, flatter and paler.
Gel sheets are soft and flexible dressings applied directly over the target area. They are reusable and washable between wearing. Gels are applied like an ointment, which dries over a few minutes to create a silicone barrier over the scar, which lasts for several hours.
Initially silicone can be applied for a few hours a day and then for longer as the skin builds tolerance to the treatment. Most people will see good benefits after 2-3 months, but may continue to use the silicone for longer. The exact regime needs to be carefully tailored by your specialist.
FAQ
We know having medical, surgical or cosmetic treatment can seem daunting and it is natural to have questions. We are here to ensure your comfort and safety at all times. If you are unable to find the answer to your questions below, then please do not hesitate to contact us so we can help.
Silicone sheets and gels are usually recommended for an initial treatment period of 3 months. Depending on the individual’s scar and response, longer treatment may be needed.
Topical treatments are generally safe and beneficial. Tapes or preparations containing steroid work similarly to silicone. Good results may also be seen with more invasive procedures such as needling, injections and laser treatments. It is important to discuss all of the treatment options in full with your specialist to create an individual treatment plan that is best for you and your desired results. In many cases, a number of procedures may be used in combination.
Topical treatments require good adherence to treatment plans. This includes correct application of the sheet or gel, wearing them for the correct amount of time, giving the skin adequate rest times between applications and ensuring that reusable products like sheets are cleaned and dried appropriately. It is vital not to use any of these treatments on open skin or wounds.
Prices from
Starting from: available on enquiry.
At Goutos London, we aim to deliver a premium service with no compromise on quality in order to deliver the best results possible for your needs.
Related conditions
Whatever your condition, and whatever your health goals are, we will ensure you get a holistic, focused and bespoke service that offers you the safest options for treatment aiming for the best possible outcome.
Scarring
Hypertrophic Scars
Burns
Related treatments
Whether it’s using our advanced skin scar treatments, lasers or surgery, we aim to provide nothing less than a 5-star service when it comes to our patients’ skin and healthcare needs.
Topical Management (Tape)
Laser Treatment
Testimonials
Mr Goutos is delighted to share some of his patient and peer feedback on their experiences of his services.
Read more reviews
Accreditation & Memberships
Newsletter
Welcome to the Goutos London Newsletter. This newsletter features the latest news, updates and guidance that we hope you will find of interest and will help keep you up-to-date on our services. Please sign up below to receive these.