Silicone products, such as sheets and fluid gels, are commonly used to prevent and treat hypertrophic scars and keloids. However, adequate data confirming the efficacy of fluid silicone gels is lacking. This study aimed to gather and analyze the available evidence on fluid silicone gels in scar management.

Here, the researchers conducted a systematic search of relevant articles in three databases, adhering to the PRISMA statement. Only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included, and the Cochrane risk of bias assessment tool was used for qualitative evaluation. A meta-analysis was performed using Revman software. Overall, 18 articles were selected for review of the 507 identified. The meta-analysis compared fluid silicone gel treatment with no treatment or placebo gels.

The findings suggested that fluid silicone gels have both preventive and therapeutic effects on hypertrophic scars. However, many included trials with high-quality evidence had a high risk of bias. It remains uncertain whether the effects of silicone gels are comparable to silicone sheets, and the additional components in the gels may contribute to their scar-improving properties. 

Substantial evidence depicts that fluid silicone gels can improve scars and be used in both preventive and therapeutic scar management. Combining fluid silicone gels with pressure therapy has shown promising results in adult burn patients. The meta-analysis demonstrated significant scar improvement with this modality.

Source:De Decker I, Hoeksema H, Verbelen J, et al. The use of fluid silicone gels in the prevention and treatment of hypertrophic scars: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Burns. 2022;48(3):491-509.