Does ScarAway work on old scars?

ScarAway Silicone Scar Sheets are a popular over-the-counter treatment used to help reduce the appearance of new and old scars. But how well do they actually work on older, more established scars? Here we’ll take an in-depth look at whether ScarAway can be effective for old scars.

What are ScarAway Silicone Scar Sheets?

ScarAway makes silicone scar sheets that are designed to be worn over a scar to help flatten, soften, and smooth the scar tissue. Silicone is often used in scar treatment because it is thought to:

  • Keep the scar hydrated and prevent moisture loss
  • Soften and flatten raised scar tissue
  • Reduce redness and discoloration
  • Relieve itching and discomfort

ScarAway offers both transparent and silicone gel options in a variety of shapes and sizes to fit over different scar locations. They recommend wearing the scar sheets for 12-24 hours per day for at least 60-90 days for optimal results.

Do ScarAway sheets work on older scars?

Most of the research on silicone scar sheets like ScarAway focuses on their effectiveness on newer scars that are still in the remodeling phase. However, there is some evidence that they may also provide some benefit for older, mature scars:

  • A study in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery found that silicone gel sheeting significantly improved appearance of scars after cesarean section even when used 2-15 years after the scar formed.
  • A review in the Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery concluded that silicone can improve hydration and elasticity in mature burn scars.
  • A study in Aesthetic Plastic Surgery saw improvement in symptoms like pain and itching in older scars when treated with silicone gel.

However, the benefits tend to be more modest compared to when scar sheets are used on newer scars. The longer a scar has been allowed to fully mature, the harder it is to achieve significant changes in its appearance and texture.

What impacts ScarAway’s effectiveness on older scars?

There are several factors that influence how well ScarAway silicone sheets may work to improve more mature scars:

Type of Scar

ScarAway is likely to be most effective for certain types of older scars compared to others:

  • Hypertrophic scars – These thick, raised scars that stay within the borders of the original wound tend to respond better to silicone treatment than flat, sunken scars.
  • Surgical scars – Clean, straight incision scars from surgery may see more improvement than jagged scars from trauma.
  • Facial scars – Scars on the face and neck, which tend to be more visible, may benefit more from scar sheets than scars in less noticeable locations.

Scar Age

In general, the newer the scar is, the better the results from ScarAway sheets. However, even years-old scars may see some improvements:

  • 1-2 years – Good potential for improvements in texture, color, and pliability
  • 2-5 years – Moderate potential for improvements with consistent long-term use
  • 5+ years – More modest benefits, mainly in hydration, comfort, and pliability

Adherence to Instructions

To get the most out of ScarAway for an older scar, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper application and wear time. Wearing the scar sheets for less than the recommended duration of 12-24 hours daily or using them inconsistently is likely to result in less noticeable changes.

Scar Severity

ScarAway sheets work best on scars that are not extremely severe or deep in the first place. For wide, deeply pitted, or adhered scars, other in-office scar revision techniques performed by a dermatologist may be necessary in addition to at-home scar sheet use.

Tips for using ScarAway on older scars

Here are some tips to get the most out of ScarAway silicone scar sheets for older, mature scars:

  • Clean and dry the scar thoroughly before applying the sheets
  • Use scar gel or cream under the sheets for added hydration
  • Ensure proper fit to avoid bunching, wrinkling, or edge-lifting
  • Change the sheets every 1-2 days for hygiene
  • Massage the scar when changing the sheets to increase circulation
  • Be consistent and patient with use for at least 2-3 months
  • Use sheets after other scar revision techniques like laser therapy to maintain results

The benefits of ScarAway for old scars may include:

  • Improved scar hydration and suppleness
  • Some flattening of raised scar tissue
  • Modest softening or smoothing of scar texture
  • Subtle lightening of discolored scars
  • Reduced itching, pain, or discomfort

However, dramatic changes in scar thickness, severe discoloration, or surface area are unlikely from silicone sheets alone once a scar has fully matured.

Are there risks or side effects?

Silicone scar sheets are generally very safe with minimal risks or side effects. Potential problems may include:

  • Skin irritation, redness, or rash
  • Itching or discomfort under the sheet
  • Contact dermatitis (rare)
  • Adhesive residue left on skin

To avoid irritation, carefully follow application instructions, keep skin clean beneath the sheets, and monitor for any reactions. Discontinue use if any persistent redness, swelling, or other concerning symptoms develop.

The bottom line on ScarAway for old scars

ScarAway silicone sheets can be beneficial for improving the appearance and feel of older, mature scars in many cases. However, the results tend to be more modest compared to using the sheets on fresh scars. Patience and consistent long-term use is vital. ScarAway may produce subtle improvements in texture, color, pliability, and comfort but cannot remove severe, years-old scars on its own. Speak to a dermatologist about the best options to reduce appearance of mature scars that still bother you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I use ScarAway sheets on an old scar?

It’s recommended to use ScarAway consistently for at least 60-90 days on an older scar to allow enough time for any changes to occur. Most studies showing benefits for mature scars used the sheets for 2-4 months. Consistent, long-term use is key to getting results.

Should I use ScarAway sheets after laser scar revision?

Yes, silicone sheets are often recommended for continued use after laser procedures like CO2 fractional laser resurfacing for scars. The sheets can help protect and hydrate the skin while also maintaining the results of the laser treatment over time.

Can I use other scar creams while using ScarAway?

Yes, you can apply other topical scar treatments in addition to ScarAway sheets for an added benefit. The sheets help seal in the scar cream and complement treatments like silicone gels, onion extract, vitamin E, etc. Discuss any additional creams with your provider.

How long are ScarAway sheets good for after opening?

Each ScarAway sheet lasts for about 2-5 uses with regular replacement recommended every 1-2 days for proper hygiene. The sheets remain effective for reducing scars for around 30 uses as long as they maintain adhesion. Discard and replace once they are no longer sticking well.

Can I cut ScarAway sheets to size?

Yes, the silicone ScarAway sheets can be carefully trimmed with scissors to fit over scars of different sizes and shapes. Avoid cutting too close to the edges which may impact adhesion. Custom cutting helps maximize contact of the sheet over the entire scar.

ScarAway Silicone Scar Sheet Options

ScarAway offers a range of silicone scar sheet products to meet different scar needs:

Product Highlights
Clear Silicone Scar Sheets Transparent, breathable sheets that can treat scars while allowing normal skin tone to show through
Silicone Scar Gel Sheets Soft, fabric-like sheets saturated with silicone for added scar hydration
Face Scar Sheets Smaller sheets shaped for use on delicate facial scars
Rejuvenation Scar Sheets Advanced sheets with concentrated medical-grade silicone for severe scars
C-Section Sheets Larger sheets designed specifically to reduce the appearance of cesarean section scars

Be sure to choose the right ScarAway product and size for your specific scar type and location for the best results.

Seeking professional scar revision treatment

For severely disfiguring, painful, or emotionally bothersome old scars, consulting a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon about professional scar revision options may also be beneficial. Along with continuous use of silicone sheets at home, procedures like laser resurfacing, surgical excision, steroid injections, or dermabrasion in the office can further help improve scar appearance and associated symptoms.

Types of professional scar revision techniques include:

  • Ablative lasers (CO2 laser)
  • Fractional laser skin resurfacing
  • Surgical scar excision/revision
  • Cryotherapy
  • Steroid injections
  • Dermabrasion
  • Microneedling
  • Radiation therapy
  • Topical medications

A dermatologist can determine which options may be effective and appropriate based on your specific scar concerns, medical history, and procedure goals. Scar revision often requires a combination approach over time for optimal improvement.

Conclusion

ScarAway silicone scar sheets have the potential to help improve the appearance, texture, and discomfort of older, mature scars in many cases. However, the benefits are often more modest compared to results seen on fresh scars. With scars that are years or decades old, the defining characteristics are largely set and difficult to reverse completely. But diligent, long-term use of silicone sheeting may produce subtle but meaningful improvements in scar softness, pliability, redness, discomfort, and overall aesthetics.

If an old, bothersome scar is still significantly impacting your comfort, function, or self-confidence, consulting a dermatologist or plastic surgeon about additional medical revision techniques can provide additional reduction in scar visibility. Used together with professional procedures and optimal at-home scar care, ScarAway silicone sheets can be a worthwhile option for maximizing improvement even in mature, years-old scars.

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