Silicone Scar Tape and Gel for Cosmetic Surgery Scars

Scars are a normal part of wound healing, but their final appearance varies widely. Genetics, the location of the incision, surgical technique, postoperative tension, infection, and sun exposure all play a part. One simple, evidence-based intervention that consistently helps is topical silicone—available as silicone scar tape/strips, silicone gel sheeting, and silicone gel in a tube or pump.

As a plastic surgeon, I recommend silicone routinely after most procedures, from breast and body surgery to facial scars and minor lesion excisions. Used correctly, silicone can flatten, soften, and fade new scars and can also improve symptoms such as itching, redness, and tightness.

What is silicone therapy?

“Silicone therapy” describes medical-grade, inert silicone applied continuously over a maturing scar. It comes as:

• Silicone tape/strips (adhesive) – thin, flexible plasters you stick directly over the scar. Reusable, washable, and cut-to-fit.

• Silicone gel sheeting (non-adhesive or self-adhesive) – slightly thicker sheets used in the same way; often preferred for larger areas (e.g., abdominoplasty).

• Silicone gel (topical) – a fast-drying gel you spread on the scar, forming a transparent, semi-occlusive film; ideal for irregular areas (eyelids, nostrils, around joints) where tape lifts, or where discreetness matters.

All three formats deliver the same therapeutic mechanism when used continuously.

How does silicone improve scars?

Silicone doesn’t “peel the scar off” or bleach it. Instead, it optimises the micro-environment of the healing skin:

1. Occlusion & Hydration

   Silicone creates a semi-occlusive barrier, reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL). A well-hydrated stratum corneum keeps keratinocytes calmer, which reduces inflammatory signalling to dermal fibroblasts.

2. Down-regulation of fibroblast activity

   In hypertrophic and keloid-prone skin, fibroblasts overproduce collagen and glycosaminoglycans. By normalising hydration and static electricity at the skin surface, silicone appears to modulate cytokines (e.g., TGF-β family) and reduce collagen overproduction, leading to flatter, softer scars.¹

3. Temperature and pressure micro-effects

   The thin barrier can subtly alter scar temperature and reduce mechanical irritation from clothing, which may lessen pruritus (itching) and erythema (redness).

The net effect: reduced thickness, improved pliability, less redness, and less itch, particularly in new and immature scars.¹

What does the evidence say?

Multiple clinical studies and reviews support silicone for prevention and treatment of hypertrophic scars and keloids, especially when initiated early and used consistently for 2–3 months or longer. A widely cited review concluded that topical silicone significantly improves scar height, colour, and pliability and reduces symptoms versus no treatment.¹

Key takeaways from the literature:

• Early use matters: start as soon as the wound is fully epithelialised (usually ~10–14 days post-op, once there is no crusting or open areas).

• Consistency is crucial: 12–24 hours/day of wear or film coverage, ideally for at least 8–12 weeks; high-risk scars may benefit from 3–6 months.

• All formats help: tape, sheets, and gels work when used properly; choose based on the anatomy and lifestyle.¹

Bottom line: Silicone is a safe, non-invasive, first-line option with solid clinical support for improving new surgical and injury scars.¹

Silicone tape vs silicone gel: which should I choose?

Both work. Pick the format you will actually use long-term.

Choose silicone tape/strips if you:

• Need all-day coverage under clothing or a bra.

• Have a long, linear scar (e.g., tummy tuck, C-section, breast augmentation).

• Prefer set-and-forget (apply after morning shower, remove at night or every 2–3 days depending on brand care instructions).

• Want mild scar support—well-fitted strips may also reduce lateral tension across the incision.

Choose silicone gel if you:

• Have curved or irregular scars (eyelid, nose, lip, around joints).

• Need invisible or make-up compatible treatment (it dries into a clear film).

• Are sensitive to adhesives or find tape lifts with sweat or skincare.

Many patients mix and match: gel by day for discretion, tape at night for prolonged occlusion.

When should I start silicone after surgery?

• Start when the incision is fully sealed: no scabs, weeping, or gaps. For most uncomplicated incisions this is 10–14 days post-op.

• If you’ve had steri-strips or paper tape in the early weeks to offload tension, transition to silicone once steri-strips are no longer required and the skin is intact.

Do not apply silicone over open wounds, infection, or broken skin.

How to use silicone tape or gel (step-by-step)

Silicone tape/strips

1. Clean, dry skin: Shower, then pat the area dry. Avoid oily moisturisers under the strip.

2. Cut to size: Slightly longer and wider than the scar on all sides for full coverage.

3. Apply without stretch: Lay the strip down gently to avoid blistering or shear.

4. Wear time: Aim for 12–24 hours/day. Some strips are washable and reusable; replace when they lose adhesion or integrity.

5. Skin breaks: If irritation occurs, give the skin 12–24 hours off, then resume. Rotate placement slightly if possible.

Silicone gel

1. Pea-sized amount: A thin film covering the scar and 0.5–1 cm around it is enough. We recommend CLNQ Silicone Scar Gel.

2. Let it dry (3–5 minutes): It should form a clear, non-tacky film before dressing or clothing.

3. Frequency: Usually twice daily to maintain continuous film coverage (follow product guidance).

4. Make-up compatible: Once dry, you can apply sunscreen, make-up, or non-occlusive skincare on top.

How long should I continue?

• Standard course: 8–12 weeks of continuous use.

• High-risk scars (chest, shoulders, sternum, darker phototypes, previous keloids, large tension lines): 3–6 months may be warranted.

• You can stop once the scar is pale, flat, and pliable—a sign that active remodelling has largely settled.

Scar maturation continues for up to 12–18 months; silicone is most effective in the first 3–6 months.

Who benefits most?

• Recent surgical scars (breast, tummy tuck, C-section, facelifts, blepharoplasty, rhinoplasty, mole/cyst excisions).

• Traumatic or burn scars once healed.

• Hypertrophic/keloid-prone patients, including those with a personal or family history of raised scars or scars in high-tension areas (upper chest, shoulders, jawline).¹

Safety, side effects, and precautions

Silicone is inert and non-medicated. Side effects are uncommon and usually mild:

• Skin irritation or folliculitis (more likely with prolonged occlusion in hot weather).

• Contact dermatitis to adhesives (less common with gel forms or non-adhesive sheets).

• Maceration if applied over damp skin.

Stop temporarily if you notice significant redness, blistering, or rash; restart once settled or switch formats (e.g., gel instead of tape). Avoid use on broken skin or infected wounds. Silicone is generally considered safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding when used externally on healed skin.

Combining silicone with other scar strategies

Silicone is most effective as part of a complete scar plan:

• Sun protection (SPF 30–50+) daily for at least 6–12 months to prevent hyperpigmentation.

• Scar massage once cleared by your surgeon (typically from 3–4 weeks post-op) to improve pliability.

• Paper tape/microporous tape in the first 1–3 weeks for tension off-loading, then transition to silicone.

• In-clinic treatments for resistant scars:

  • Steroid (triamcinolone) injections ± 5-FU for keloids/hypertrophic scars.

  • Vascular lasers (e.g., PDL/Vbeam) to reduce redness.

  • Fractional lasers (e.g., CO₂, Er:YAG) in later remodelling for texture.

  • Silicone + pressure therapy for burns or bulky hypertrophic scars.

If a scar is thickening after 6–8 weeks despite good silicone use, seek review—early intervention gives better outcomes.

Practical tips for everyday use

• Showering & sport: With tape, many brands are washable; pat dry and reapply. If it loosens with sweat, consider gel for daytime and tape overnight.

• Clothing friction: Silicone acts as a glide layer, reducing irritation from bras and waistbands.

• Make-up: Use gel for face or neck scars; once dry, conceal normally.

• Hair-bearing areas: Gel is easier; tape may lift or irritate follicles.

• Sensitive skin: Start with shorter wear times and build up; consider gel if adhesives bother you.

• Travel: Gel is compact; strips can be cut to size and kept in a travel pouch.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Does silicone actually work, or is it just marketing?

There is peer-reviewed evidence that silicone reduces thickness, softens scars, improves colour, and decreases itch/pain, particularly for new hypertrophic scars.¹ Consistent use is the key.

Tape, sheet, or gel—which is best?

They’re equally effective when used correctly. Choose based on location, lifestyle, and skin sensitivity. Long, linear body scars often suit tape/sheets; facial or irregular scars often suit gel.

When can I start silicone after surgery?

Begin once the wound is completely epithelialised—usually 10–14 days after an uncomplicated procedure (or when your surgeon confirms it’s safe).

How many hours per day do I need?

Aim for continuous coverage, practically 12–24 hours/day. With gel, apply twice daily to maintain a film; with tape, daily wear or per brand instructions.

How long should I continue?

At least 8–12 weeks; for high-risk scars, 3–6 months. Stop when the scar is pale, flat, and supple.

Will silicone remove a keloid?

Silicone can soften and flatten a hypertrophic or small keloid over time, but established keloids often need injections, laser, or surgery plus ongoing silicone to help prevent recurrence.

Can I use silicone with other creams or oils?

Yes, but apply silicone directly on clean, dry skin first. Oily products underneath can reduce adhesion and effectiveness. Sunscreen/make-up can go on top once gel dries.

Is silicone safe in pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

Topical silicone used on healed skin is generally considered safe; it is inert and non-medicated. If unsure, ask your clinician.

What if the tape irritates my skin?

Pause for 12–24 hours, switch to gel, or try a different brand. Ensure the skin is dry before application and avoid stretching the tape.

Can I start silicone months after surgery?

Earlier is better, but late use can still help with redness, itching, and some thickening. For mature scars (>12 months), in-clinic options may be more impactful, but silicone remains a low-risk adjunct.

Will silicone lighten dark skin or cause pigment changes?

Silicone does not bleach the skin. In darker phototypes, it may reduce post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation indirectly by calming inflammation and reducing friction. Daily SPF is still essential.

How do I know it’s working?

Expect less itch within 1–3 weeks, less redness over 4–8 weeks, and gradual softening/flattening over 8–12+ weeks.

Realistic expectations

Silicone optimises your scar; it doesn’t erase it. Results depend on biology, tension, and compliance. Even in ideal conditions, a scar may remain faintly visible. The goal is a flat, pale, supple line that blends well with surrounding skin.

Our Scar Management Plan

• Week 0–2: Wound care as advised. Keep the incision clean and dry.

• Around week 2 (once sealed): Start silicone (tape for body scars; gel for face/curves).

• Weeks 2–12: Continuous silicone use + daily SPF; begin gentle massage when cleared (often week 3–4).

• 3–6 months: Continue silicone in high-risk sites; taper once the scar is flat and pale.

• Ongoing: Sun protection for 6–12 months minimum.

Key do’s and don’ts

Do:

• Start silicone as soon as it’s safe (fully healed).

• Aim for 12–24 hours/day of coverage.

• Use SPF 30–50+ daily.

• Keep the skin clean and dry before application.

• Persist for at least 12 weeks.

Don’t:

• Apply over open or infected wounds.

• Stretch the strip when applying.

• Put thick oils under silicone.

• Expect instant changes—consistency matters.

When to seek help

• Scar becomes rapidly raised, itchy, painful, or extends beyond the original incision (possible keloid).

• Signs of infection (in early stages): redness spreading, warmth, discharge, fever.

• Persistent pigmentation or texture concerns despite good compliance.

Early, evidence-based adjustments usually lead to a better outcome.

Final word

Silicone scar tape and gel are low-risk, high-value tools to improve scar quality. Start early, use it consistently, protect the area from the sun, and pair silicone with good follow-up. If your scar isn’t settling as expected, there are effective clinic-based treatments we can add. The combination of sound surgical technique, tension control, and smart aftercare is what produces the fine-line scars patients want.

References

O’Brien L, Pandit A. Silicone gel sheeting for preventing and treating hypertrophic and keloid scars. Aesthetic Plast Surg. 2014; (comprehensive review summarised in PubMed Central). Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4486716/