Top Scar Gels: Comprehensive Guide for Healthcare Professionals

Scarring is a common concern for many patients, whether it results from surgery, injury, or skin conditions like acne. As healthcare professionals, it is essential to provide patients with evidence-based recommendations for scar treatment. Among the various options available, scar gels have become increasingly popular due to their ease of use and effectiveness. This comprehensive guide will delve into the top scar gels on the market, their active ingredients, mechanisms of action, and how to counsel patients on their use.

Understanding Scars and Scar Treatment

Types of Scars

1. Hypertrophic Scars: Raised scars that remain within the boundaries of the original wound.
2. Keloid Scars: Raised scars that extend beyond the original wound boundary, often growing larger over time.
3. Atrophic Scars: Sunken scars that occur when the skin loses underlying fat or muscle, common in acne or chickenpox scars.
4. Contracture Scars: Scars that tighten the skin, often resulting from burns, and can affect muscle and nerve function.

Mechanism of Scar Gels

Scar gels work primarily by hydrating the scar tissue, protecting it from environmental factors, and encouraging the production of collagen in a controlled manner. The key ingredients in these gels, such as silicone, allantoin, and onion extract, play crucial roles in the healing process.

Top 20 Scar Gels on the Market

1. Mederma Advanced Scar Gel

• Active Ingredient: Cepalin (onion extract)
• Mechanism: Reduces redness and improves texture.
• Usage: Once daily application.

2. ScarAway Silicone Scar Gel

• Active Ingredient: Medical-grade silicone
• Mechanism: Hydrates scar tissue and creates a protective barrier.
• Usage: Twice daily application.

3. Kelo-Cote Advanced Formula Scar Gel

• Active Ingredient: Polysiloxanes, Silicon Dioxide
• Mechanism: Reduces scar thickness and pigmentation.
• Usage: Twice daily application.

4. Bio-Oil Skincare Oil

• Active Ingredient: PurCellin Oil
• Mechanism: Improves scar appearance through hydration.
• Usage: Twice daily application.

5. Cicatricure Face & Body Scar Gel

• Active Ingredient: Botanical extracts, dimethicone
• Mechanism: Reduces discoloration and smooths skin texture.
• Usage: Twice daily application.

6. RejûvaSil Silicone Scar Gel

• Active Ingredient: Silicone, Emu Oil, Squalene
• Mechanism: Soothes and reduces scar appearance.
• Usage: Twice daily application.

7. Aroamas Professional Silicone Scar Gel

• Active Ingredient: Silicone
• Mechanism: Softens and flattens scars.
• Usage: Twice daily application.

8. Derma E Scar Gel

• Active Ingredient: Panthenol, Allantoin
• Mechanism: Promotes healing and reduces redness.
• Usage: Twice daily application.

9. Terez & Honor Advanced Silicone Scar Gel

• Active Ingredient: Silicone
• Mechanism: Hydrates and protects scar tissue.
• Usage: Twice daily application.

10. Scar Esthetique Scar Cream

• Active Ingredient: Silicone, Coenzyme Q-10
• Mechanism: Improves elasticity and appearance.
• Usage: Twice daily application.

11. NewGel+ Advanced Silicone Gel

• Active Ingredient: Silicone
• Mechanism: Flattens and lightens scars.
• Usage: Twice daily application.

12. Strataderm Scar Therapy Gel

• Active Ingredient: Polysiloxanes
• Mechanism: Reduces scar texture and pigmentation.
• Usage: Once daily application.

13. Cimeosil Scar and Laser Gel

• Active Ingredient: Silicone
• Mechanism: Enhances scar healing post-surgery.
• Usage: Twice daily application.

14. Keloda Scar Ointment

• Active Ingredient: Essential oils, Silicon Dioxide
• Mechanism: Moisturizes and softens scars.
• Usage: Twice daily application.

15. Zenmed Scar Treatment Kit

• Active Ingredient: Aloe Vera, Betaine
• Mechanism: Improves scar texture and tone.
• Usage: Twice daily application.

16. Scarguard MD

• Active Ingredient: Silicone, Hydrocortisone
• Mechanism: Reduces inflammation and scar size.
• Usage: Twice daily application.

17. Hiruscar Silicone Pro

• Active Ingredient: Silicone
• Mechanism: Lightens and smooths scars.
• Usage: Twice daily application.

18. Silicone Scar Gel by Terez & Honor

• Active Ingredient: Silicone
• Mechanism: Softens and flattens scars.
• Usage: Twice daily application.

19. Aroamas Scar Gel

• Active Ingredient: Silicone
• Mechanism: Flattens and lightens scars.
• Usage: Twice daily application.

20. Enalt Scar Gel

• Active Ingredient: Silicone
• Mechanism: Improves appearance and texture of scars.
• Usage: Twice daily application.

Detailed Insights on Key Ingredients

Silicone

Silicone is the most widely used ingredient in scar gels due to its proven effectiveness in improving the appearance of scars. It works by hydrating the scar tissue, reducing collagen overproduction, and providing a protective barrier.

Onion Extract (Cepalin)

Onion extract is known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It helps in reducing redness, discoloration, and overall scar size.

Allantoin

Allantoin promotes cell regeneration and softens the scar tissue, making it an effective component in scar treatment.

Essential Oils

Certain essential oils like lavender and tea tree oil have healing properties that can aid in scar reduction by promoting skin regeneration and reducing inflammation.

Counseling Patients on Scar Gels

Application Tips

1. Consistency is Key: Encourage patients to apply the scar gel consistently as per the instructions, usually twice daily.
2. Clean Application Area: Ensure the scar area is clean and dry before application.
3. Gentle Massage: Advise patients to gently massage the gel into the scar to enhance absorption.
4. Duration of Use: Patients should be aware that scar treatment is a gradual process, often requiring several months of consistent use for noticeable results.

Managing Expectations

It is crucial to set realistic expectations for patients. While scar gels can significantly improve the appearance of scars, they may not completely eliminate them. Inform patients about the expected time frame for visible improvements and the factors that can affect treatment outcomes, such as scar age, location, and type.

Addressing Concerns

Patients may have concerns about the potential side effects or interactions of scar gels. Reassure them that these products are generally safe and well-tolerated. If any irritation or adverse reaction occurs, advise them to discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.

Conclusion

Scar gels are an effective and convenient option for patients seeking to improve the appearance of scars. By understanding the key ingredients, top products, and proper application techniques, healthcare professionals can provide informed recommendations and support patients in achieving the best possible outcomes. With the right guidance and consistent use, scar gels can make a significant difference in scar management.