Silicone Scar Sheets vs. Mederma: Which Is Better for Scars?
Choosing the right scar treatment can be confusing—do you go with silicone scar sheets or a topical like Mederma? Both are popular, but they work in different ways. Silicone sheets create a protective, moist environment that helps flatten and fade scars, while Mederma works at the skin’s surface to improve texture and color.
So, which one’s better? That depends on your scar and your routine. But here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide.
Quick Answer
Silicone scar sheets are generally better for raised scars like keloids and hypertrophic scars. They help flatten and soften scars over time by keeping them hydrated.
Mederma may be a better option for discoloration and smaller, flatter scars, especially in visible areas like the face where applying a sheet might be tricky.
Still not sure? Keep reading—we’ll break it all down.
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Table of Contents
What Exactly Is a Scar?
Scars form when your skin repairs itself after a deep injury. The body produces collagen to close the wound, but the new tissue often looks and feels different. Some scars are flat and pale, while others can become raised, thick, or even spread beyond the original wound.
There are different types of scars too:
- Surgical scars from procedures
- Acne scars from severe breakouts
- Injury scars from cuts, burns, or accidents
Each type may respond differently to treatments, which is why choosing the right one matters.
What Are Silicone Scar Sheets and How Do They Work?
Silicone sheets are thin, flexible patches made of medical-grade silicone. You apply them directly over the scar, where they act as a protective barrier. They help retain moisture and prevent the scar from becoming too dry or hard, which can make it more noticeable.
Silicone sheets have been around since the 1980s and are especially effective for raised scars, like:
- Hypertrophic scars (thick, but within the wound area)
- Keloids (overgrown scars that extend beyond the original injury)
How they help:
- Lock in moisture
- Balance collagen production
- Flatten and soften the scar over time
- Reduce redness
Why people like them:
- Non-invasive and drug-free: A gentle option that doesn’t involve medications or procedures.
- Reduces scar appearance: Helps flatten, soften, and fade scars over time.
- Reusable and cost-effective: Many silicone sheets can be washed and reused for weeks.
- Easy to use: They’re simple to apply and remove, and you can cut them to fit any scar size.
- Comfortable to wear: Soft, flexible, and discreet enough to wear under clothes—even for long hours.
What’s Mederma and What Does It Do?
Mederma is a well-known brand that offers gels and creams for scar care.
Its main active ingredient is Cepalin, an onion bulb extract believed to help reduce inflammation and improve the color and texture of scars.
Unlike silicone sheets that sit on the skin, Mederma absorbs into the skin and works beneath the surface to target scar tissue.
Why people like Mederma:
- Works on various types of scars: Including acne scars, surgical scars, burns, and injuries
- Easy to use: Just apply once or twice daily—fits easily into most skincare routines
- Lightweight and non-greasy: Absorbs quickly without leaving a sticky or oily residue
- Versatile: Comes in different formulations (gel, cream, oil, etc.)
- Widely available: Easy to find in pharmacies and online
Mederma has recently expanded its line to include silicone-based scar sheets, offering a hybrid approach. However, for this comparison, we’re focusing on its original topical products.
Silicone Sheets vs. Mederma: What’s the Difference?
While both silicone sheets and Mederma aim to improve the look and feel of scars, they work in very different ways. Understanding how each one functions, how to use them, and their overall effectiveness can help you choose the best option for your needs.
How They Work
The key difference is where and how each product acts. Silicone sheets work on the surface, forming a barrier that keeps the scar hydrated and protected. This external layer helps regulate collagen and creates ideal healing conditions.
Mederma works below the surface, as it’s absorbed into the skin. Its active ingredients aim to calm inflammation and fade discoloration from within. So, while both help improve the look of scars, their approach is completely different—one works from the outside in, the other from the inside out.
How You Use Them
Silicone sheets require long wear time—ideally 12 to 24 hours a day—and are typically used for several weeks to months. They’re reusable, can be trimmed to fit any scar, and work best when kept in place consistently, which may be easier for some body areas than others.
Mederma, on the other hand, is applied once or twice daily, directly onto the scar. It’s quick to use and easily fits into a daily skincare routine. Many users report seeing results within 4 to 8 weeks for newer scars, while older scars may take 3 to 6 months to improve. Its fast-absorbing, non-greasy formula makes it convenient—especially for visible or hard-to-cover areas.
Effectiveness
When comparing the two, silicone sheets come out ahead in terms of clinical support, especially for raised scars like keloids and hypertrophic scars. They’re widely used in medical settings and have been shown to help flatten, soften, and reduce scar thickness when used consistently.
Mederma, by contrast, has more mixed results. Some studies suggest its onion extract formula may help improve the appearance of scars, particularly newer or discolored ones—but it hasn’t been shown to be more effective than other standard treatments. It also carries a slightly higher risk of irritation.
According to a review published in the International Journal of Dermatology, “silicone gel/sheeting as well as taping have the most evidence to help improve scarring,” though even that evidence is considered weak and sometimes conflicting.
The same review concluded that most scar treatments—including onion-based products like Mederma—have minimal to absent proof of effectiveness.
So while silicone has the strongest research backing among the two, it’s important to keep expectations realistic. No over-the-counter treatment is guaranteed to work, and results can vary based on the type of scar and consistency of use.
When picking a scar treatment, it’s best to talk to a doctor or dermatologist. They can help you choose the right one based on what the science says and what your scar is like.
Side Effects and Considerations
Silicone sheets are generally well tolerated, with minimal side effects. The most common issue is mild skin irritation, often caused by long wear or not cleaning the skin properly beforehand. Making sure the area is clean and dry before applying the sheet can help prevent discomfort.
Mederma may be more likely to cause skin reactions, especially in people with sensitive skin. Some users report itching, redness, or irritation due to the active ingredients. A patch test is recommended before regular use to check for any adverse reactions.
Overall, silicone tends to be gentler, while Mederma may carry a slightly higher risk of sensitivity, depending on your skin type.
What About the Cost?
Silicone sheets typically cost more upfront, but they’re washable and reusable, which makes them more economical over time—especially for larger or long-term scars.
Mederma is cheaper per purchase, but since it needs to be reapplied daily and isn’t reusable, costs can add up with ongoing use, particularly for bigger scars or longer treatment durations.
Which One Is Better?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—it really depends on your scar and lifestyle.
Silicone sheets are usually the better option for raised scars, like keloids and hypertrophic scars. They’re especially helpful for larger or thicker scars where long-term hydration makes a visible difference. They work best on areas where the sheet can stay in place comfortably—like the chest, arms, or legs.
Mederma might be a better fit for flat scars or those with discoloration, especially in areas that move a lot or where sticking on a sheet is impractical (like the face, joints, or hands). Its quick, no-fuss application makes it easy to use in spots where adhesion could be a challenge.
If you’re looking for the option with the most clinical support, silicone sheets have the stronger evidence base, though even that evidence is somewhat limited. Mederma offers convenience, but results can vary, and some users may experience skin irritation.
In the end, the better choice is the one that fits your scar—and your routine. When in doubt, check with a dermatologist to find the most suitable solution for your skin.
Quick Takeaway
- Best for raised scars: Silicone sheets
- Best for flat scars or discoloration: Mederma
- Most evidence-backed (though still limited): Silicone sheets
- Best for tricky locations or daily ease: Mederma
- When in doubt: Ask a dermatologist for personalised advice
Whatever option you choose, consistency and patience are key—and if you’re unsure, a quick chat with a dermatologist can point you in the right direction.
