What should you know about NewGel silicone gel sheeting?

The sheet creates a flexible layer over a healed scar and helps maintain contact with the skin. This can reduce dryness and may influence the way a raised or firm scar matures. It is used for scars after surgery, injury or burns, but it does not close an open wound and cannot remove a scar instantly. A scar that is still draining, infected or covered by a fresh scab needs separate medical advice before silicone is applied.

Clean and dry the healed skin before placing the sheet, then trim it so it covers the scar with a small margin without pressing onto fragile surrounding skin. Build up wear gradually if your clinician recommends it. Remove the sheet for washing, clean it according to its instructions and let the skin dry before replacing it. Check the skin each time for heat, itching, rash, maceration or worsening tenderness. Stop and ask a clinician if irritation does not settle.

Arrange medical review if the scar becomes increasingly painful, warm, swollen, foul-smelling or starts releasing fluid. Seek advice for a scar that grows beyond the original injury, restricts movement or changes quickly. A new rash beneath the sheet may reflect irritation or contact allergy and should be assessed before continued use.

Is my scar fully healed enough for silicone? How long should I wear the sheet each day? What should I do if the edges irritate my skin? Would scar revision surgery or another approach be more suitable for its shape and symptoms?