Bio-oil is popular with many patients and may improve the appearance of a scar by keeping the skin hydrated however I am unaware of any scientific evidence that it reduces scarring. The only products that do seem to reduce scarring are silicone gels such, as Kelo-coat or Dermatix.
Alternatives to Bio-Oil
A combination Bio Oil or skin-nourishing cream and massage may be your best option if you're concerned about scars and money. Any body cream rich in vitamin E (daily massage is the key); Cocoa butter therapy oil (some say this is better than just cocoa butter);
Silicone can work well combined with treatments such as pressure, scar massage and other therapeutic methods in reducing the appearance of problematic scars. Silicone may hydrate the scar tissue and reduce the production of collagen fibres (see scar massage information sheet).
Both products are highly effective and both very popular. That said, in our experience a higher number of patients seem to prefer the silicone gel over the sheeting for its overall ease of use.
Silicone scar sheets are generally safe and well-tolerated, but there are a few potential side effects and precautions to keep in mind: Skin reactions: Some individuals may experience skin irritation, redness, or itching under the silicone sheet. If this occurs, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.
Bio-Oil helps to improve the appearance of new or old scars; whether from surgery, accidents, burns, insect bites, scratches or conditions such as acne or chickenpox. Although younger scars will have a greater chance of improvement, studies have shown that older scars also benefit from regular use of Bio-Oil.
In this study, the patients applied a silicone gel as a thin film to the scar area twice a day. After 6 months, researchers found that the silicone gel produced an 86% reduction in texture, 84% in color, and 68% in height of scars.
The scar should be completely dry and perfectly healed (usually about 3 weeks after injury assuming a well-healed scar). Ask your physician before you start silicone. You cannot use silicone on an open incision or an incision that is too recently healed.
If irritation develops, or if the scar is in a cosmetically obvious location, the sheet can be worn at night only. Alternatively, silicone gel may be used instead and applied twice daily for 3-4 months. However, silicone may be recommended for longer periods of time if the scar remains red and elevated.
In general, keeping a hypertrophic or keloid scar moist will help to alleviate symptoms. Any topical moisturizer (Eucerin®, aloe vera, Vaseline®, mineral oil, etc.) applied several times each day is recommended. Also, Benadryl® or other over the counter antihistamines may improve itching and discomfort.
The goal of silicone gels and patches are to not only reduce the risks of hypertrophic scar or keloid formation, but also to reduce the redness of an incision and accelerate the fading of the appearance of a scar.
Silicone can help reduce the appearance of new scars, though it may not improve the appearance of old scars. Doctors have used silicone sheeting for over 35 years , and silicone gel is also now in use. Evidence seems to suggest that these options are effective at reducing scars and improving their appearance.
Common side effects of silicone gel sheets include itchiness, rash, maceration of the skin, and malodor. These symptoms are generally well-tolerated and can be minimized by rinsing the area properly daily.
Generally silicone gel ointment should be applied 2-3 times daily in a thin layer and allowed to dry for around 4 minutes. Make-up and sun protection cream can be applied over the top of the gel when dry.
A small drop of product should be enough to sufficiently cover most scars up to three inches in length. A 15g (1/2 oz.) tube of product should be plenty to treat a 3” long scar twice a day for 12 weeks. For larger scars, consider a larger tube.
Applying DERMA E's Scar Gel like a serum on clean skin before you moisturize can help your red marks soften. For the perfect one-two punch to fight those acne scars, use DERMA E's Microdermabrasion Scrub one to two times a week along with daily application of the Scar Gel.
Massaging your scar(s) twice a day can help to stimulate the repair process and help you connect with the scar emotionally. Wait until your wound has fully healed and allow 4 weeks after any stitches have been removed before you start to apply Bio-Oil.
Bio-Oil Skincare Oil is non-irritating and suitable for sensitive skin. Bio-Oil Skincare Oil should be massaged in a circular motion into scars (avoiding broken skin), twice daily, for a minimum of 3 months. Results will vary from individual to individual.
One potential drawback of Bio-Oil is that it may take some time to see noticeable results. Patience and consistent use are key when using this product, as it generally takes a few weeks to months to see significant changes in the appearance of scars and stretch marks.
Sheet should extend at least ½ inch beyond the area. Make sure your scar is clean and dry before application, free from any creams, gels, ointments, or powders. Peel off backing and apply to scar, sticky side down. Wear daily for 12 to 22 hours for approximately 3 months.
ScarAway Silicone Scar Gel or Spray and ScarAway Silicone Scar Sheets may be used together as part of your complete scar treatment regimen.
Yes, silicone scar sheets are reusable. They can be washed daily with mild soap and water, then allowed to air dry before reapplying. Most silicone scar sheets can be used for several weeks before needing replacement.