Keloid scars at the site of injury can form over many years, gradually changing. Conventionally, keloid scars are usually divided into fresh and old.
Fresh keloid scar
is a scar that has existed for less than five years.
It differs from old keloid scars in its bright color, glossy surface and active growth. An old scar
is pale, wrinkled, soft.
This classification is very important, since the choice of treatment depends on the type of scar. And, of course, treatment of keloid should begin as early as possible
. The best time is before the scar appears.
And this is not sarcasm. Most often, the tendency to form a keloid scar can be noticed even before it appears. In order to determine whether you have it, look carefully at how small wounds heal: after shaving in men, after piercing the ears in women.
If a thin, light-colored scar forms that does not rise above the skin, you are probably safe. But you still need to monitor the healing of any wound very, very carefully, since there are cases when keloids begin to form, as they say, without warning.
Expert comment:
“At the slightest suspicion of a keloid, you should immediately consult a doctor, and in no case should you self-medicate: squeezing, burning, massage, using creams and ointments without the consent of your doctor.
I treat keloids at various stages and too often see how self-medication and inappropriately used medication significantly complicate an already difficult situation.”
Maxim Vasiliev, plastic surgeon, expert in eliminating keloid scars.
In order to make the scar as invisible and thin as possible, many preparations have been created, among which gels, ointments and silicone-based patches occupy a special place.
Laser resurfacing of post-acne scars.
How to get rid of scars and scars.
October 27, 2022
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Content
- How to choose a scar cream?
- The best remedies for scars
- Contractubex
- Fermenkol
- Cicatrix
- Kelofibrase
- Mederma
- Clearvin
- Dexpanthenol
- How to remove scars using traditional methods
Perhaps, each of us has scars on our bodies: for some it’s a “hello” from childhood, for others it’s acne scars, marks from surgery, burns, stretch marks, etc. For others, it’s not pays attention to a scar or scar, and someone is truly complex and wants to get rid of imperfections on the skin. Therefore, we have compiled a list of the most effective, according to buyers, products that lighten scars, smooth them out, help to shrink and become as invisible as possible.
Read also: 10 most effective acne remedies 10 creams and gels to combat acne and acne.
What is silicone gel against keloid sutures
Silicone ointments, creams and gels, such as Zeraderm or Dermatix, containing 100% medical grade silicone, play a big role in the treatment of scars, including keloids.
A silicone-based gel or cream does not allow connective tissue to grow, and at the same time protects scars from external influences, as it creates a thin film on the surface of the scars. In addition, silicone ointment for keloids smoothes and softens the scar, which relieves itching and pain.
In addition to silicone preparations, Hydrocortisone is used to combat keloid scars. Hydrocortisone ointment for hypertrophic and keloid scars suppresses the activity of fibroblasts and collagen formation, which means it does not allow scars to grow.
There are also many combination drugs, such as Contratubeks, Kenalog, Elokom and others. In addition to silicone, they may include other active ingredients: zinc, vitamin E and others necessary to fight scars and quickly heal elements.
Expert opinion
“Currently, the pharmacological market offers many drugs that can reduce scars and make them less noticeable.
However, you need to keep in mind that some drugs are suitable for fresh scars, others for old ones
. Only a doctor can determine exactly which cream or gel to use in a particular case. Therefore, you should not listen to the experience of friends and the advice of “doctors” on the Internet. Come for a consultation and we will select the drug that will help you.
And you shouldn’t expect a miracle from a cream or gel. Most often they are used in complex therapy - after scar removal or laser therapy. As a main preparation, the gel can only be used for very small scars – and most often, these are not keloids.”
Makim Vasiliev, plastic surgeon.
How to choose a scar cream?
Let's decide what you need to pay attention to if you are choosing an anti-scar product:
- Skin type.
If you have combination or oily skin, choose a cream-based scar treatment. The cream is well absorbed, it has a light texture, it does not clog pores and does not leave a greasy feeling. Scar ointment will not work in this case (especially if the scar is on the face) - it clogs the pores and provokes the formation of acne, and then dealing with post-acne is even more problematic. - Tendency to allergies.
You need to understand that no matter how good the remedy for scars, the body can react to any of its components. Therefore, if you are allergic, be sure to test it on your wrist before using the drug. - Scar location.
Many scar creams contain harsh ingredients that often cause irritation if applied to the face or neck (tender areas of the body). If you have a scar on your face, it is better to choose a product that is as natural as possible, has a gentle effect and rarely causes side effects.
It is not advisable to use several scar treatments at once because they can react with each other and cause unpredictable reactions. During pregnancy, scar treatments should be used with caution, since a woman’s immunity decreases, susceptibility to allergens increases - and even local products can cause allergic reactions.
Read also: Top 5 universal remedies for burns The most effective remedies for burns: thermal and solar.
News
Hydrocolloid patches provide the wound with a moist environment that speeds healing and prevents the formation of unsightly scars. See what hydrocolloids are and what their properties and uses are. Learn when and how to use hydrocolloid dressings and how to choose the best and most suitable for your needs.
What are hydrocolloid patches?
Hydrocolloid patches belong to the group of modern active dressings that not only protect the wound and isolate it from external factors, but also actively influence its internal environment. They are mainly used on wounds with slight or moderate exudate:
- in the final stage of the cleaning phase;
- on the threshold of the proliferative phase, during which the body begins to restore torn or destroyed tissue;
- when the skin splits with a blister.
Traditional dressings dry out the wound, which leads to the formation of a scab under which the healing process occurs. After its removal, a scar remains. A humid environment has a positive effect on the growth of epidermal cells. In a dry environment this phenomenon also occurs, but much more slowly.
What are hydrocolloids? Hydrocolloids are high molecular weight chemical compounds, biopolymers of natural or synthetic origin. They are characterized by very high solubility in water. They absorb moisture, enclosing it in the structure of the resulting gel.
Colloids are substances that consist of at least two components. They are connected to each other in an interesting way - at the molecular level, one substance penetrates into another. There are also colloids consisting of 3, 4 or more substances that combine with each other according to the same principle.
The most common colloid in everyday life is milk, which looks like a liquid (mixture), but when left in a warm place, it begins to separate into whey and curd - colloidal components. A common medical colloid is carboxymethylcellulose, in which, under conditions of increased temperature of the wound and exudate, the process of delamination begins, and it covers the wound with a thick, fatty-gel mass.
How do hydrocolloid patches work on wounds? Hydrocolloid wound patches act actively and multidimensionally. They speed up the healing process, especially supporting the granulation phase, and also provide adequate protection against dirt, bacteria and mechanical trauma. Hydrocolloid patches:
- absorb the effusion coming out of the wound, then “sealing” it in the form of a gel. Thus, they contribute to effective wound cleansing;
- acidify the wound environment, creating favorable conditions for phagocytic granulocytes, and therefore prevent the proliferation of bacteria;
- provide proper moisture to the wound, preventing it from excessive drying and creating an ideal climate for fibroblasts and, therefore, skin cells involved in the process of repairing damaged tissue in the proliferation phase;
- represent a physical barrier that protects the wound from the effects of the external environment. In addition, thanks to the durability of the materials from which the patches are made, dressing changes can be carried out much less frequently than with traditional means and, above all, less painful - due to the preservation of moisture.
Hydrocolloid patches for heels and calluses
Hydrocolloid patches are used mainly for various types of open wounds, especially post-traumatic ones, but in practice the list of their uses is wider. More and more people are using this type of bandage for their feet and elbows, which tend to be prone to peeling and painful cracking.
Hydrocolloid patches for heels:
- increase humidity levels in sensitive areas,
- soften dead skin,
- allow you to remove excess dead skin,
- accelerate the restoration of healthy tissues,
- significantly reduce the level of pain, facilitating daily functioning.
Good hydrocolloid bandages for heels and elbows should have an anatomical, specially cut shape that ensures a tight fit to very rounded parts of the body. This prevents them from peeling off and also helps to obtain the desired healing effect.
Hydrocolloid callus patches are also sold that absorb fluid from the callus and turn it into a gel. They provide pain relief by covering the wound and relieving pressure on the skin. This type of bandage is “unobtrusive” and comfortable. They allow the skin to breathe, provide a moist healing environment and are very easy to use.
Let's summarize Bimed Premium hydrocolloid plasters are made from a unique transparent self-adhesive hydrocolloid mass. Coming into contact with the callus fluid, the hydrocolloid mass forms a protective cushion that insulates the wound from pressure and friction. By absorbing fluid from the callus, it creates ideal conditions for healing.
Thanks to this unique material, Bimed hydrocolloid plasters perform a number of the following functions: - they are moisture resistant, which allows contact with water; - maintain the natural moisture level of the callus, promoting favorable healing; - reduce pain from wet calluses; - protect calluses from rubbing and avoid infections; — have increased gluing reliability, last more than 24 hours; - provide rapid healing of the skin.
Hydrocolloid patch is much more effective than regular patch. Like a real “second skin,” Bimed Premium for wet calluses accelerates the healing process and provides a comfortable feeling.
Be healthy!
Republic of Belarus, Minsk, Lynkova st., 123b +375 (17) 250-05-88; +375 (17) 365-15-88; +375 (29) 646-43-49; [email protected] bimed.by
Contractubex
A German cream for scars and scars, which has long been very popular. Active ingredients of the gel: allantoin, sodium heparin, onion bulb extract. You should not expect instant results from Contractubex gel if your scar is old. Old scars need to be treated for a long time - you will notice the first positive changes after six months. If you regularly apply the product to the scar, it will shrink faster. If you systematically treat fresh scars, Contractubex will do the job in about a month. In reviews, patients praise this drug, but say that for tangible results it must be used strictly according to the instructions. "Contractubex" smoothes scars, improves blood circulation, and moisturizes the skin. When treating with Contractubex, you need to avoid massages, avoid hypothermia and direct sunlight.
Contractubex
Merz Pharma, Germany
A combined drug whose effect is determined by the properties of its constituent components.
It turns out to have fibrinolytic anti-inflammatory (due to the presence of onion extract), antithrombic (due to the presence of heparin), and keratolytic effect (due to the presence of allantoin). Stimulates cellular regeneration without hyperplasia. Inhibits the proliferation of colloidal fibroblasts. from 486
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Fermenkol
A popular gel for scars and scars, which contains collagenases from marine and freshwater organisms. This substance effectively breaks down the amino acids that make up scars. “Fermenkol” has practically no contraindications, perfectly smoothes scars and relieves itching. The gel is suitable for the treatment of both old and fresh scars. When treating acne scars, the skin becomes more elastic, lighter, and defects are practically invisible. The only disadvantage of Fermenkol is its high cost, but the result will definitely please you, so it makes sense to fork out the cash.
Fermenkol
JSC NPK "High Technologies", Russia
Fermenkol gel is a modern anti-scar product, used for the correction and prevention of scars after surgery, wounds, burns and scars, as well as for removing acne scars.
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Scar patches
Recently, so-called silicone patches, or plates, are increasingly being used to combat keloid scars. They are glued to the surface of the scar, and at the same time provide its protection from mechanical damage and exposure to silicone, which affects the resorption of keloid scars.
As a rule, people who are prone to keloid formations need to start using patches immediately after the wound has healed and a Dense crust has formed.
. This is an excellent prevention against the proliferation of connective tissue and the appearance of ugly, rough scars.
However, modern silicone-based preparations can be used not only in case of danger of keloid disease, but also in the healing of any wounds and sutures, so that scarring is easier and the scar is thinner and less noticeable.
Cicatrix
The use of silicone compounds is considered the gold standard in the treatment of scars and scars. In addition to liquid silicone, Cicatrix contains plant extracts and sphingolipids (cosmetic substances that are also used in pediatrics). "Cicatrix" contains Asian centella, which stimulates collagen production and reduces inflammation, and Scots pine extract - improves the protective properties of the skin and tones. Sphingolipids (sphingosine and ceramides) are part of cell membranes - they restore the structure of the epidermis, maintain its lipid balance, and make scars elastic and soft. Literally after a month of constant use, you can notice the positive effect of the cream if these are young scars. The old ones decrease over the course of the year.
Cicatrix
Laboratorios Virens SL (Laboratory Virens), Spain
It is recommended to use for the regeneration of skin, especially damaged after surgery, burns, fresh and old scars, keloids, post-acne, stretch marks on the skin.
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Post-acne treatment
Photos from open sources
How to care for a suture after surgery
BUY MEPIFORM PLASTIC |
- Suture during operations on the thyroid gland in St. Petersburg
- What is the Mepiform patch used for?
- How to use Mepiform silicone patch?
- Buy Mepiform patch
- Photo of the seam after applying the patch
Most of the operations performed at the North-Western Center for Endocrinology and Endocrine Surgery of the High Medical Technologies Clinic named after.
N.I. Pirogov St. Petersburg State University, are performed on the organs of the neck - the thyroid gland and parathyroid glands. In this type of operation, the skin suture is located in a place that is clearly visible, so the requirements for the cosmetic result of the operation are maximum. We use technologies that allow us to reduce the size of the suture (video-assisted operations) or move the suture to an inconspicuous place (endoscopic operations from the axillary approach), and at the same time we use proven and effective methods to improve the quality of the postoperative scar. The center's surgeons believe that the cosmetic result of the operation is as important as the clinical result. Over the years of our work, we have tested many different products aimed at improving cosmetic results. Experiments on animals were also used. Physiotherapeutic procedures were prescribed, gels, creams, plates, bandages and patches were used. The results were carefully evaluated, ineffective means were discarded (there were many of them), and eventually we came to the methods described below, which have become standard for us, since they have proven their real effectiveness.
Ethicon Dermabond Skin Adhesive
During an operation at the North-Western Center for Endocrinology and Endocrine Surgery of the High Medical Technologies Clinic named after. N.I. Pirogov St. Petersburg State University, a cosmetic suture is applied to the skin with an absorbable thread, after which the surface of the suture is covered with Ethicon Dermabond skin glue (USA). After drying, the glue forms a transparent, durable film on the surface of the seam, which protects the seam from moisture and air, ensuring healing under sterile conditions.
The use of glue provides patients with a number of important advantages: - the surface of the suture is clearly visible to both the patient and the operating surgeon, which allows for a quick assessment of the condition of the operation area; - no dressings required; — no need to “remove” the seam, i.e. there is no need to pull the thread used to stitch it out of the skin; — the patient can take water procedures immediately after surgery (usually we recommend starting to shower the next day after surgery).
Applying skin glue to the seam | Appearance of a seam with glue applied |
The glue remains on the surface of the skin for 14-20 days, after which it comes off on its own. Already 2 weeks after the operation, you can remove the glue yourself - this does not cause any pain and is done very quickly.
Specialists at the Endocrine Surgery Center have been using Ethicon Dermabond adhesive for more than 10 years. Skin glue has proven itself well - its use allows you to raise the comfort of the operation to new heights.
The use of skin adhesive is standard at the Northwestern Center for Endocrinology and Endocrine Surgery. The adhesive is used for all patients and does not need to be purchased separately.
Silicone patch "Mepiform"
The second important “secret” that allows you to ensure the optimal cosmetic result of the operation is a silicone patch, specially designed to prevent the development of rough and unsightly scars.
The Mepiform patch was developed and manufactured by the Swedish company Mölnlycke Health Care, a world leader in the development of modern high-tech dressings.
The patch protects the postoperative suture from friction and damage, moisturizes the skin surface and provides optimal conditions for healing. When using a silicone patch, the skin seam is much thinner and less noticeable. The effectiveness of using the patch has been proven in a number of clinical trials (Maján JI et al. Evaluation of a self-adherent soft silicone dressing for the treatment of hypertrophic postoperative scars. Jo WC, Vol15, No 5 (2006), p.193-6, etc. .).
Mepiform is easy to use, fixed to the skin on its own using a layer of soft silicone (Safetac technology). Since the patch is flesh-colored, it is hardly noticeable on the skin. It is easy to use and does not interfere with daily activities.
The effectiveness of the Mepiform patch has been proven by the experience of use in thousands of patients at the North-Western Center for Endocrinology and Endocrine Surgery. Currently, the recommendation to use this patch is provided to all patients discharged from the center.
How to use the Mepiform patch
The most economical is the use of patch plates measuring 10x18 cm. In most cases, 4 patch patches are sufficient for a full course (only when performing lateral cervical lymph node dissection, when the length of the postoperative suture exceeds 10 cm, the need for a patch can be up to 6-7 patches).
It is necessary to start using the patch after the skin adhesive has been completely removed. A rectangular section is cut out from the patch plate with scissors, the length of which is 1 cm longer than the length of the skin suture, and the width is about 1.5 cm.
The patch is glued to the seam so that the entire seam line is covered with the patch. The patch must be worn constantly, day and night. The patch is removed only during water procedures (before a shower, the old patch is peeled off and thrown away; after washing, a new Mepiforma plate is glued to dry skin).
The patch is used until the skin scar has fully matured (if the color of the skin scar changes from pink to light gray, you can stop using the patch). On average, the period of use of the patch is from 3 to 6 months.
Where to buy the Mepiform patch
Patients purchase the Mepiform patch on their own. Unfortunately, Mepiform is quite difficult to buy in regular pharmacies, especially in the regions of our country (in St. Petersburg it can only be bought in a few pharmacies). In this regard, patients can purchase the patch at the advisory branches
Northwestern Center for Endocrinology and Endocrine Surgery at the following addresses:
- Kronverksky Ave., 31, tel. (5 minutes from Gorkovskaya metro station)
- st. Savushkina, 124, building 1, tel. (250 meters to the right from the Begovaya metro station)
You can also purchase the Mepiform patch from our partner, a company engaged in the supply of medical equipment and consumables in the North-West region, Scandimed LLC:
- st. Tsiolkovsky, 9, building 2, tel. to order Mepiform patches +7-921-428-93-98
The center guarantees the minimum price for Mepiform for its patients.
At the moment, the cost of a 10x18 cm patch is 1,290 rubles.
Appearance of the skin suture after applying the silicone patch
[to the beginning of the article]
To the section “Hospitalization in the center”
Kelofibrase
This German anti-scar cream contains sodium heparin, vitamin E, D-camphor, levomenthol, and urea. These components perfectly moisturize the skin, make rough scars softer, more elastic, and stimulate blood circulation. Kelofibrase also relieves inflammation and relieves pain. Those who have used this scar cream have noted that scars dissolve, smooth out, and become lighter. The drug has virtually no side effects; it can be prescribed to children over one year of age.
Kelofibrase
Sandoz, Germany
Kelofibraza cream helps get rid of scars of any origin - hypertrophic, burn, postoperative, keloid.
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Mederma
Another scar gel made in Germany. Moderma contains various active ingredients that heal damage to the skin: cepalin, allantoin, xanthine, sorbic acid. Mederma works comprehensively: it stimulates cell regeneration, prevents fibroblasts from developing, softens dead skin cells and helps produce collagen. Mederma gel perfectly moisturizes the skin, improves blood circulation, relieves inflammation, and destroys bacteria. The only disadvantage of this product is that it only treats recent scars. It takes at least six months for a fresh scar to resolve. Mederma is suitable for pregnant and lactating women.
Mederma
Merz Pharma, Germany
Mederma is a new generation drug with complex effects.
Shows fibrinolytic, anti-inflammatory effects, accelerates repair. The components included in the formula of the product increase the hydrophilicity of tissues, help soften and smooth out collagen fibers in the structure of the scar. They have an antiproliferative effect and prevent allergization. from 2980
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Clearvin
This scar cream contains margosa, emblica officinalis, calamus, lodhra, turmeric, madder cordifolia, kafal and aloe vera, processed in sesame oil, beeswax, holy basil, borax. Clearvin is suitable not only for treating scars and stretch marks, but also helps remove age spots, acne, and dark circles under the eyes. "Clearvin" heals, nourishes the skin, removes fresh scars and scars. The product stimulates tissue metabolism well, softens the skin, renews it and improves microcirculation. The cream should be applied to the skin two to three times a day - the first results will be noticeable after five to six weeks.
Clearvin
RealCosmetics, Russia
Clearvin is an effective multifunctional cream for problem skin, containing extracts of rare and unique herbs.
Herbs are of great value and are beneficial in solving skin problems and helping to overcome skin imperfections. An excellent cream smoothes the skin and maintains elasticity. Natural antioxidants, vitamin E and herbal microcomponents improve blood circulation, preventing the formation of dark circles under the eyes. The cream makes your skin soft, smooth and gives a healthy color. from 54
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Dexpanthenol
This ointment for scars, scars and cracks contains the substance dexpanthenol, B vitamins, petroleum jelly, sea buckthorn oil, lanolin, citric acid. "Dexpanthenol" is good for scars after chickenpox; it is prescribed to women who are breastfeeding to treat cracked nipples. "Dexpanthenol" has virtually no contraindications or side effects, but it must be used strictly according to the instructions.
Dexpanthenol
JSC "Tatkhimfarmpreparaty", Russia
Dexpanthenol is a drug for external use that has a regenerating and metabolic effect, as well as some anti-inflammatory effect.
Dexpanthenol is a B vitamin, a derivative of pantothenic acid. In tissues, dexpanthenol is converted into pantothenic acid, which is part of coenzyme A. As part of coenzyme A, pantothenic acid takes part in the processes of acetylation, lipid and carbohydrate metabolism, the formation of acetylcholine, porphyrins and corticosteroids. from 66
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Folk remedies help get rid of fresh scars
Photos from open sources
How to remove scars using traditional methods
There are several home remedies that can help in treating scars and scars if they are fresh.
- Pea flour.
Flour should be diluted with warm milk, applied to the scar and left for an hour. - Compress from thuja leaves.
Prepare an alcohol tincture from thuja leaves and apply a compress to the scar area twice a day (for 40 minutes). - Calendula compress.
Take 0.5 liters of boiling water, add 2 tbsp. l. calendula flowers and let it brew for two hours. Strain and apply the compress for 15 minutes five to six times a day. - Fenugreek seed decoction.
Take fenugreek seeds and boil them for seven minutes. Apply the prepared decoction to the affected areas of the skin. - Lemon.
Rub lemon juice over areas of skin that have scars. - Almond oil.
Almond oil also works well on small scars if you do a light massage with it. - Sandalwood paste.
This folk remedy for scars is considered one of the most effective. You need to soak sandalwood powder in milk overnight. In the morning, apply the mixture to the affected areas and wait until it dries. Rinse off with cold water. - Banana puree.
Take a ripe banana, puree in a blender and apply to the skin for seven to ten minutes. - Cabbage.
Spread honey on a cabbage leaf, add a few drops of vodka and Vishnevsky ointment. Apply to scars several times a day.
§2. How to choose an effective silicone scar patch
They will help with both hypertrophic scars and keloids. The patch also protects against irritation and various damage.
Treatment of scars with a silicone patch should begin as early as possible, preferably immediately after the wound has healed.
Mode of application:
- cleanse the skin;
- take the silicone patch out of the package, cut off a piece from it so that it covers the scar or scar completely (it should extend slightly beyond its borders, about 1 centimeter);
- if the scar is too long, you can cut the product into several parts, stick them so that the ends of the pieces touch, but do not overlap each other;
- keep on the affected area of skin for at least twelve hours (some can be worn for up to 23 hours);
- rinse the scar and patch once a day with running water.
Since the product can be used several times in a row, there is no need to throw away the protective film. After the silicone patch is removed from the skin, it needs to be glued back.
Popular silicone patches and their features
- Mepiform. They do an excellent job of removing and reducing scars: smoothing the skin, making it soft, and eliminating redness. They are suitable for the treatment of fresh and old scars and burns. Wear throughout the day. It is removed only once a day to clean its surface and skin. Usually one plate is enough for a week.
- Since the patch repels water, it can be left on even while showering. It has practically no contraindications, except for individual intolerance to silicone. One plate 4 by 30 centimeters will cost approximately 1000 rubles.
- Dermatix. Available in two forms - bandage and transparent gel. The main active component is a mixture that consists of both organic and inorganic silicon compounds. Creates a protective film on the surface of the skin, but the coating is breathable.
- The film helps the skin regenerate, increasing its elasticity, will eliminate small scars, and make large ones less noticeable. One tube of scar gel will cost about 2,000 rubles. The patch costs about 1400. But it is worth noting that the product is used very economically and will last for a long time.
- CICA-CARE. Aimed at removing scars, including those after surgical interventions. In 90% of cases, it is possible to completely get rid of small marks. The patch shows good results when used to reduce old scars. The main indications for using the patch are as follows: scars are red, inelastic and convex;
- old scars;
- scars after surgery;
- damage to the skin resulting from burns, cuts, injuries.
- Suitable for 24/7 wear. In the first days of use, it should be kept on the skin for two to four hours. This is necessary for the dermis to get used to it. Then, every day, the duration of wear gradually increases by two hours.
- But you should remove it a couple of times a day to wash it. The CICA-CARE silicone patch is expensive - about 3,000 rubles. But since the same record can be used many times in a row, the price can be justified.
Read more in our article about the use of silicone patches for scars, their types and cost.
How does silicone scar patch work?
Scars and marks that remain on the skin after various injuries and operations often become a cause for concern. After all, it happens that they are located in the most prominent places and become visible to strangers. Experts have developed a silicone patch, the purpose of which is to get rid of annoying scars.
It is a plate, one of the sides of which is self-adhesive. Silicone, which is located on this surface, provides the skin with the necessary level of moisture. In combination with the compression effect, this leads to the fact that the scar begins to dissolve and smooth out.
Silicone patches will be an effective tool in the fight against both hypertrophic scars and keloids. If a person has a mark of the second type, the plate also protects against irritation and various damages.
Expert opinion Tatyana Somoilova Cosmetology expert Treatment of scars with silicone patches should begin as early as possible. It is recommended to start using the product immediately to completely heal the wound. Then the maximum effect will be achieved, which often results in complete disappearance of the scar.
Mode of application
The silicone scar patch is very easy to use. To glue it to the affected area of the skin, you need to do a few simple manipulations:
- First you need to cleanse the skin. The area where the scar is located should be washed using mild soap. Then carefully remove it from the skin. It must be absolutely clean, without traces of cosmetics or other products for the face or body.
- Remove the silicone patch from the package. Cut a piece of the required size from it so that it covers the scar or scar completely. In this case, the patch should extend slightly beyond its boundaries, about one centimeter.
- If the scar or scar is too long, you can cut the remedy into several pieces. In this case, the silicone patch should be glued in such a way that the ends of the segments touch, but do not overlap each other.
- Since the product can be used several times in a row, there is no need to throw away the protective film. After the silicone patch is removed from the skin, it needs to be glued back.
- For the anti-scar product to be as effective as possible, it should be left on the affected area of skin for at least twelve hours. In general, as manufacturers of silicone patches note, they can be left on for almost a whole day. Wearing time can be up to 23 hours. But these indicators depend on the brand of the product.
- Once a day, it is necessary to wash both the scar itself and the patch with running water and soap. The plate must be thoroughly cleaned of it in order to be able to use it again. After washing, leave the silicone patch to dry.
Popular silicone patches and their features
There are several varieties of the product available in pharmacies. All of them are aimed at combating scars and scars. But each brand has a number of features, and also differs in price and contraindications.
Mepiform: instructions for use, analogues
Silicone patches of this brand do an excellent job of removing and reducing scars: smoothing the skin, making it soft, and eliminating redness. They are suitable for the treatment of fresh and old scars and burns.
It is recommended to wear the product throughout the day. The patch is removed only once a day to clean its surface and skin. The time after which the drug should be changed depends on individual characteristics. Usually one plate is enough for a week.
Among the distinctive properties of the Mepiform silicone patch, it should be noted its ability to repel water. Therefore, you can leave it on even while taking a shower. But bathing should not be too long.
Silicone scar patch Mepiform has virtually no contraindications. Among the reasons why it should not be used is only silicone intolerance. If no allergic reactions occur when applying the plate to the skin, then it can continue to be used to treat scars.
Watch the video about the silicone bandage Mepiform:
As for price indicators, they depend on the number of silicone patches purchased, as well as their size. For example, one plate 4 by 30 centimeters will cost approximately 1000 rubles. A patch with parameters 10x18 - 1200 will cost more. And very small plates, measuring 5 by 7.5 centimeters, are sold only in a package of five pieces and will cost 2000 rubles.
Mepiform or Dermatix: which is better?
Mepiform and Dermatix equally exhibit their medicinal properties, so the difference between them lies in the price and manufacturer - the first costs an average of 1,500 rubles, and the second - 1,600 rubles.
Mepiform or Dermatix are plates made of medical silicone (silicon dioxide) and are prescribed for:
- pressure that prevents the accumulation of extracellular fluid (decongestant);
- maintaining moisture in the rumen area;
- shrinking capillaries, reducing redness;
- inhibition of the entry of substances into the scar that cause inflammation;
- stopping the formation of excess collagen fibers.
All this not only helps healing, but also prevents the formation of a rough scar.
Contractubex or Mepiform: which one to choose?
To compare Contractubex and Mepiform, you need to take into account their characteristics given in the table.
Sign | Contractubex patch | Mepiform patch |
Compound | Allantoin, heparin, onion extract | Silicone |
Action | Smoothes, relieves inflammation, protects the scar area | Moisturizes the scar, relieves pain, itching, redness |
Purpose | Prevention of rough scars and treatment of fresh ones | |
Advantages | Suitable for softening and smoothing old scars | Most effective when used early |
Flaw | To get the effect you need to use from 3 to 6 months | 2 years after scar formation, it has very little effect |
Mepiform bandage
The names Mepiform patch and bandage refer to the same product, they just come in different sizes: 10x18 cm, 4x30 cm and 5x7.5 cm.