Introduction

Surgical scars are a natural part of healing. Appropriate scar care during the first few months after surgery can significantly improve their appearance.​

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Many patients ask which products are useful and which are unnecessary. This page summarizes the scar care principles commonly discussed with patients after surgery, including moisturizing newly healed skin and the use of medical‑grade silicone.​

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The aim is to keep scar care simple, evidence‑based and practical.

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Dr Rica’s 5 Key Scar Care Principles

1. Start scar care only after the wound has fully healed
2. Keep newly healed skin well moisturized
3. Use medical‑grade silicone consistently
4. Protect scars from sun exposure
5. Seek early treatment if scars become raised

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Understanding Scar Healing

All surgical wounds heal through several phases:

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Inflammatory phase (0–2 weeks): The wound closes and early collagen formation begins.

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Proliferative phase (2–6 weeks): New tissue forms and collagen production increases.

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Remodeling phase (6 weeks–12 months): Collagen gradually reorganizes and the scar slowly matures.

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During the early remodeling phase the scar is most responsive to treatments such as silicone therapy.

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Moisturizing Newly Healed Skin

Once the wound is fully closed and the skin surface has healed, the new skin is often dry, sensitive and prone to irritation.

Regular moisturizing helps:
• Restore the skin barrier
• Reduce dryness and tightness
• Improve comfort during healing
• Support healthier scar maturation

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A simple fragrance‑free moisturizer is usually sufficient. The goal is hydration and skin comfort.

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Silicone Therapy for Scar Management

Medical‑grade silicone is widely used to help prevent and manage hypertrophic scars.

Silicone works by:
• Creating a protective occlusive layer
• Maintaining optimal hydration of the scar
• Modulating fibroblast activity
• Reducing excessive collagen production

With consistent use, scars may become flatter, softer and less noticeable.

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Types of Silicone Products

Silicone Sheets
Best suited for flat linear scars such as caesarean section scars, breast surgery scars and abdominal surgery scars.

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Silicone Gel
Useful for irregular areas such as facial scars or smaller scars where sheets are difficult to apply.

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Silicone Scar Plasters
Combine adhesive dressings with silicone therapy and may be convenient for certain areas.

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Scar Care Timeline

Week 0–2: Wound healing phase – keep wound clean and protected.

Week 2–3: Skin closure – once the wound surface is healed, gentle moisturising may begin.

Week 3–6: Early scar phase – silicone therapy can usually start.

Month 2–6: Scar maturation – continue consistent scar care.

Month 6–12: Long‑term maturation – scars continue to gradually improve.

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Sun Protection for Healing Scars

New scars are particularly sensitive to sunlight. Excessive sun exposure can lead to persistent darkening or pigmentation.

During the first several months:
• Protect scars from direct sunlight
• Use SPF 30–50 sunscreen
• Cover the scar when possible

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Common Questions

Do silicone sheets remove scars completely?
No treatment removes scars completely, but silicone therapy can help scars become flatter and softer.

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When should silicone therapy start?
Only once the wound has fully healed.

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How long should silicone be used?
Most patients benefit from 3–6 months of consistent use.

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