Silicone gel for scar management

• Silicone gel is used to help soften scars.
• It should only be used on well-healed burns or grafts.
• Occasionally mild skin reactions such as rashes do occur with use.
• There are a number of silicone products available.
• Your therapist will discuss with you the most appropriate product for your scar.

Download a guide to using silicone gel for scar management

What happens if you have a skin reaction?

• Stop using the silicone gel.
• Contact your occupational therapist or physiotherapist as soon as possible.
• They can advise a modified regime once the skin reaction has settled.

Dos and don’ts when wearing the gel

• Do not apply moisturiser to the scar prior to the use of gel.
• It creates a layer between your skin and the silicone and reduces the effect of the gel.
• Moisturiser can be applied after the gel is removed.
• Do not wear gel in the shower or when swimming and keep gel away from heat.

Caring for your silicone gel sheet

• Wash daily in a mild non-oily soap solution and rinse in clean warm water.
• Air dry and reapply to the clean dry scar area.
• Avoid using paper products for drying as they may stick to the silicone.
• Between use, store silicone in a plastic bag or container with a plastic backing sheet.