Before having a cesarean, I never knew much about scar and wound healing. So when my OB-GYN suggested silicone scar tape to help minimize the look of my healed incision, I was skeptical, to say the least. Still, I diligently applied one every day for about four months, basically until I simply lost the will to continue. And even though I got lazy, my OB-GYN was thrilled with my scar's appearance a year later. It is a barely perceptible white line with no scar tissue or bumpiness. To better understand what makes silicone scar sheets effective, I reached out to a plastic surgeon and a dermatologist, who explained that it is one of the most widely-recommended, evidence-based treatments that can be used to improve the appearance of scars.
"It does not 'erase' scars, but it can meaningfully reduce redness, thickness, firmness and overall visibility, particularly for raised scars," said Dr. Jenna Queller, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of DermWorks in Boca Raton. "Clinical data shows it can help flatten and soften scars and even reduce the risk of developing hypertrophic scars when used early and consistently," she added. This type of scar tissue is characterized by its red, elevated appearance. Both of the experts we consulted for this story, along with my personal doctor, recommended products from ScarAway.
How Silicone Scar Tape Works
Dr. Moustafa Mourad, a double-board-certified facial plastic surgeon in New York City, noted, "I routinely recommend silicone scar tape to my patients because it is one of the simplest and most effective ways to improve scar healing." He calls it a "great foundation" that is often part of a broader, more comprehensive scar-care approach. He explained that the silicone creates a protective barrier over the scar, keeping the skin well hydrated. "That hydration helps regulate collagen production during healing. When scars become thick or raised, it is usually because the body has overproduced collagen. Silicone helps slow that process down so the scar matures in a smoother, more controlled way. It also reduces irritation, which is another factor that can worsen scarring." Queller shared that "they also provide mild pressure and protection from friction, all of which can contribute to flatter, softer scars over time."
When to Use Silicone Scar Sheets
Both experts agree that silicone sheets work best on newer scars, particularly in the first few months after healing, when the scar is still actively remodeling. However, both also see benefits in older scars. "There is good evidence that even mature scars can improve with consistent use, although results tend to be slower and less dramatic compared to early treatment," noted Queller. She emphasized that silicone scar tape and sheets should only be used after healing is complete and there are no open areas, scabs or drainage. "Starting too early increases the risk of irritation or infection because moisture can be trapped under the dressing."
Consistency Is Key
According to both experts, consistency is key. "I typically recommend using it daily for at least six weeks to eight weeks, and closer to three months for optimal results," Mourad said. Queller cautioned, "The benefit is cumulative; sporadic use generally does very little." Our experts agreed that there are many good options available, "and most medical-grade silicone products perform similarly if used correctly. The most important factor is not the brand itself but consistent use over time, which is what really drives results," said Mourad.
Top Silicone Scar Tape Products
Below, we rounded up a selection of silicone scar tape sheets recommended by our experts, along with a few highly-rated, well-reviewed options. Take a look and keep some on hand; it can be a real game-changer in terms of how your scars look long-term.
1. ScarAway Silicone Scar Sheets
A pack of physician-recommended silicone scar sheets. Both of our experts, and my personal doctor, recommended ScarAway's popular medical-grade silicone scar sheets. I used these for the first six weeks of my treatment before switching to a more affordable option, and I am so glad I did. I credit them for significantly reducing the look of my C-section scar in a really short amount of time. They are nearly invisible and ultra-thin, stay on through multiple showers, and made a noticeable difference in my scar within days, when it was visibly lighter and thinner. One reviewer proclaimed, "It works miraculously!" And I agree. Dr. Jenna Queller said, "ScarAway silicone scar sheets are widely available, easy to use and effective for most scars, including post-surgical and hypertrophic scars." Promising reviews include a customer who said, "These patches really work! I had a lipoma removed from my arm and the scar was horrible. I used 1/2 of one patch overnight and the scar was lightened and now lays flat." Another reviewer noted, "Worked great for recovery of mole removed on face! Stayed secure all day/night on dry skin, easy enough to cut into the small shapes I needed."
2. Mepiform Silicone Dressings
A five-pack of expert-recommended medical-grade silicone dressings. Dr. Moustafa Mourad said, "I often recommend brands like ScarAway or Mepiform because they are reliable, easy to use, and widely available." Like our other options, these rectangular silicone pads can be cut down to size, which can greatly help extend the life of a single package. One reviewer called them a "Game changer in healing a serious burn." A promising review states: "This product provides great satisfaction to user with its excellent quality for the price. It has effectively covered my wife's surgical area, and now the scars have healed so well that they are hardly noticeable."
3. Mederma Silicone Scar Sheets
A four-pack of silicone scar tape that can be reused for up to three weeks. These popular Mederma scar sheets are designed to be worn for up to 21 days with gentle care. You can wash them and reuse the sheet, making it worth the initial investment. This pack comes with four sheets that can be cut down to whatever size you require. They were designed to be used on hypertrophic and keloid scars as a result of injuries, burns and surgeries. Reviewers said it made a big difference in the appearance of their scars. One iHerb customer wrote, "I had a huge pimple-like cyst on my chest and it's been healing since 6 months and the scar was bulged and red. After one time of using this tape, I had already seen a tremendous effect! The scar wasn't as red anymore and also the bulge disappeared a little. Very happy with this."
4. Silicone Scar Tape Roll (Generic Medical-Grade)
A roll of medical-grade silicone scar tape. Reusable for up to seven days, this incredibly popular roll of scar tape serves the same function as the aforementioned sheets, but you get a bit more bang for your buck. The only caveat is that these aren't as "invisible" as the more expensive sheets are. If aesthetics aren't a concern, these medical-grade rolls will get the job done. They are soft, breathable and can be cut to size. One reviewer said they are "very convenient and cost-effective," while another called them "effective scar care with noticeable pain relief." A promising review from a customer who had neck surgery: "I purchased this scar tape at the recommendation of my surgeon. I had neck surgery and he said that I could begin applying this tape six weeks after my recovery. The quality of this tape is phenomenal. It has no odor and doesn't irritate my skin at all. I used this tape for about eight weeks and it decreased the appearance of my scar tremendously."
5. Soft and Flexible Silicone Scar Tape
A soft and flexible roll of scar tape. Made with medical-grade silicone, this easy-to-use and cut-to-size tape has great reviews. It is made to move with the body without tugging or causing irritation, stays in place for days, and can be removed and then reapplied. It is "flesh-toned," which isn't ideal for those with darker skin tones. However, reviewers say it is surprisingly comfortable and doesn't interfere with daily activities. One reviewer, Jae J, said, "I was pleasantly surprised; didn't believe that this could actually work. Used it on a new scar and a very old scar and both are almost gone. It remained on my skin (African American) through showers, etc., and can be removed and placed back on. I love it!" Another reviewer, Kelsey, said, "I bought these for my mom, who had a double mastectomy. She loves it and it has done a fantastic job reducing appearance of scars."
These products can be a real game-changer in terms of how your scars look long-term. Consistent use is the most important factor for success.
