The Science Behind Silicone Scar Gel for Post-Surgery Skin
By Simon MitchellQuick Summary: Silicone scar gel works by forming a thin, breathable barrier over scar tissue that locks in moisture and helps regulate collagen production. International clinical guidelines recognise silicone as the gold standard first-line non-invasive scar treatment. It won't remove scars entirely, but with consistent use over 8 to 12 weeks, it may help scars appear softer, flatter and less noticeable.
You followed the surgeon's instructions. You kept the wound clean. You waited for the stitches to come out. And now you're left with a scar that looks thicker, redder or more noticeable than you expected.
Whether it's a surgical scar, a C-section scar, a skin cancer removal site or old acne scarring, the frustration is real. You might have already tried creams, oils or home remedies without seeing much change.
Silicone-based scar gels have been used in clinical settings for over 30 years. But how do they actually work? And what makes medical-grade silicone different from a standard moisturiser?
Why Scars Form Differently Than Normal Skin
When your skin is injured, your body produces collagen fibres to close the wound and rebuild tissue. In normal healing, collagen production eventually slows, and the scar matures into a flat, pale line.
Sometimes this process goes wrong. The body overproduces collagen, and instead of a flat scar, you get a raised, thickened or discoloured one. Research published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery notes that the stratum corneum over scar tissue is often immature and loses moisture far more quickly than healthy skin, signalling the body to keep producing excess collagen.
That cycle is what keeps scars raised, red, or uncomfortable. Breaking it is exactly what silicone gel is designed to do.
How Silicone Scar Gel Works: Occlusion, Hydration and Collagen Regulation
Silicone gel doesn't absorb into the skin. It sits on top of it. And that's precisely why it works.
When applied, medical-grade silicone forms a thin, flexible, breathable layer that mimics the protective function of healthy skin. Research published in the Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery identifies three key mechanisms.
Occlusion: The silicone barrier reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL) from the scar, preventing moisture from escaping through the immature skin. This is semi-occlusion, similar to what normal, healthy skin provides naturally.
Hydration: By keeping moisture balanced in the stratum corneum, silicone helps calm the overactive signalling that drives excess collagen. When the skin stays properly hydrated, it sends fewer distress signals to the deeper layers.
Collagen regulation: With hydration restored, fibroblast activity slows to more normal levels. This can reduce scar elevation, thickness and redness over time.
While occlusion and hydration are widely accepted as the primary mechanisms, researchers continue to study additional factors, including collagen alignment and reduced levels of inflammatory cytokines in scar tissue.
Silicone Gel vs Common Scar Treatment Alternatives (click title)
Silicone gel vs regular moisturisers
Standard moisturisers hydrate the skin surface but don't provide the semi-occlusive barrier silicone creates. Without that barrier, moisture escapes and the collagen overproduction cycle continues.
Silicone gel vs silicone sheets
Both work through the same mechanism. Sheets can be effective for large, flat scars but are visible, need 12+ hours daily wear, and don't adhere well to joints or the face. Gel dries clear and can be worn under clothing or makeup. Clinical evidence suggests similar effectiveness.
Silicone gel vs vitamin E or bio-oil
Despite their popularity, vitamin E and bio-oil have limited clinical evidence for scar treatment. Some studies have found vitamin E ineffective and occasionally associated with contact dermatitis. These products don't replicate silicone's occlusive mechanism.
Silicone gel vs professional treatments
Laser therapy, corticosteroid injections and surgical revision are typically second-line options for scars that don't respond to conservative treatment. Silicone gel is the recommended first-line approach and is often used before, alongside or after professional interventions.
What to Look for in a Silicone Scar Gel for Post-Surgery Skin
Medical-grade silicone base: The silicone needs to provide the right level of semi-occlusion. Consumer-grade silicone products may not deliver the same barrier properties.
Supporting active ingredients: Some formulations go beyond silicone alone. Genova Silicone Scar Gel combines medical-grade silicone with VANISTRYL, a peptide complex by Lipotec (Lubrizol) that may help support skin elasticity and extracellular matrix regeneration. It also includes Ecoskin Probiotic, designed to support the skin's microbiome during healing.
Fast-drying, non-greasy formula: For twice-daily use, the gel dries quickly and sits comfortably under clothing or makeup.
Realistic Expectations: What Silicone Scar Gel Can and Cannot Do
No topical product can eliminate a scar entirely. Scars are a permanent part of the skin's healing process. What silicone gel may do is improve a scar's appearance, helping it become softer, flatter, less red and less noticeable over time.
What it may help with: reducing scar elevation and thickness, softening texture, fading redness, relieving itching and discomfort.
What it cannot do: completely remove a scar, reverse deep tissue damage, replace professional treatment for severe keloids, or work overnight.
Results vary. Your age, genetics, scar size and location, and consistency of application all play a role. Most clinical guidance suggests a minimum of 8 to 12 weeks of twice-daily use before assessing results.
How to Apply Silicone Scar Gel: A Simple Daily Routine
- Wait for the wound to close: Only apply to fully healed skin. Never apply to open wounds or stitches.
- Clean and dry the area: Wash the scar gently and pat dry.
- Apply a thin layer: Spread evenly over the scar and a small margin of surrounding skin.
- Let it dry: Most medical-grade silicone gels dry within 30 to 60 seconds.
- Apply twice daily: Morning and night for a minimum of 8 to 12 weeks.
Once dry, makeup or sunscreen can be applied over the top. If redness, pain or irritation occurs, discontinue use and consult your doctor.
Who Silicone Scar Gel Is For and Who It's Not For
It may suit you if you: have a surgical scar (including C-section or skin cancer removal), are dealing with hypertrophic or raised scars, want a non-invasive first step before professional treatments, have post-acne scarring, or have an older scar that hasn't fully settled.
It may not be right if you: have an open or unhealed wound, expect instant results, have severe keloid scarring requiring medical intervention, expect complete scar removal, or experience skin irritation from silicone-based products.
Frequently Asked Questions About Silicone Scar Gel (click title)
How long does silicone scar gel take to work?
Most people notice improvements after 8 to 12 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. Deeper or older scars may take longer. Results vary between individuals.
Can I use silicone gel on old scars?
Yes. While most effective on newer scars (within the first year), research suggests it can also support improvement in older scars that haven't fully matured.
Is silicone scar gel safe for sensitive skin?
Medical-grade silicone is generally well tolerated. It sits on the skin's surface rather than absorbing into it. Discontinue use if irritation occurs.
Can I wear makeup over silicone scar gel?
Yes. Once dried (usually within 30 to 60 seconds), makeup and sunscreen can be applied over the top.
Does silicone scar gel work on acne scars?
It may help with raised acne scars (hypertrophic). It's less effective for indented or pitted acne scars, which typically require laser or microneedling.
What makes Genova Scar Gel different?
Genova combines medical-grade silicone with VANISTRYL (a peptide complex supporting skin elasticity) and Ecoskin Probiotic (microbiome support). It's Australian made, dries clear and is designed for twice-daily use.
Scars are a normal part of healing, but that doesn't mean you have to accept them exactly as they are. The science behind silicone is well established, and a quality scar gel can become a simple, manageable part of your daily routine. It won't make your scar disappear, but it may help it become something you notice a little less each week.
References:
- Mustoe, T.A. et al. (2002). International clinical recommendations on scar management. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 110(2), 560-571.
- Puri, N. & Talwar, A. (2009). The efficacy of silicone gel for the treatment of hypertrophic scars and keloids. Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery, 2(2), 104-106.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual results may vary. If you have concerns about a scar, consult a qualified healthcare professional. Genova Silicone Scar Gel is a cosmetic product designed to help improve the appearance of scars. It is not a therapeutic device and should not be applied to open wounds.
