When it comes to scar care, timing is everything. We've often discussed the importance of using silicone scar products shortly after surgery, but what if you're further along in your healing journey? Can you still benefit from scar treatments several months or even a year after your surgery? In this blog, we'll explore the ideal timeframe for healing skin and how silicone can work its magic on scars at different stages of maturity. Let’s jump right in and get you some answers to your questions.
What Does the Skin Healing Process Tell Us About Scar Healing?
To grasp the effectiveness of scar products, it's essential to first understand the natural healing process of the skin.
Skin healing is a dynamic, ongoing process that has four basic steps and can take up to two years to complete. During this time, scars can undergo significant changes, making them responsive to treatment at all stages.
As the skin heals, collagen fibers in the scar tissue rearrange and mature. This process can lead to the reduction of redness, thickness, and overall visibility of the scar. Silicone scar sheets work by providing a conducive environment for this process.
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When To Start Using Silicone Scar Sheets:
Silicone scar sheets are versatile and effective tools for scar management. They create a protective barrier over the scar, maintaining hydration and reducing tension on the tissue. This helps in preventing excessive collagen production, which can lead to raised and unsightly scars. Ideally, you should start using silicone scar sheets as soon as the wound closes completely.
However, for older scars, silicone sheets can still help significantly by softening and flattening the scar tissue. This can make the scar less noticeable and relieve any discomfort or itching associated with it. The gentle pressure exerted by silicone sheets also encourages proper collagen alignment, further improving the appearance of the scar.
So… Can I Use Silicone Scar Sheets On Old Scars?
Absolutely! Silicone scar sheets are not limited to fresh scars. In fact, they can be highly effective on older scars, including those that are several years old. While the degree of improvement may vary depending on the scar's age and severity, many individuals have reported significant enhancements in the appearance and texture of older scars after consistent silicone sheet usage.
Check out our Scar Guide to find out more about how long you should treat your scar, what you can expect from scar treatment with our ScarFX Sheets or Scar Heal Kits, and much more.