When searching for a scar gel after surgery or injury, you’ll find hundreds of products—but very few clear answers. This article explains what defines a high-quality scar treatment, which active ingredients actually work, and which product is right for your specific scar type.
Which scar gel do dermatologists recommend?
Silicone is considered one of the most effective care standards for fresh and slightly raised scars. Therefore, dermatologists recommend silicone-based products as the first choice for most scar types – either as a gel or as a patch. Silicone protects the scar through occlusion (moisture retention) and regulates collagen production. Treatment should begin as early as possible after wound closure and be carried out consistently for at least 8–12 weeks.
How does silicone work on scars?
Silicone does not act "chemically", its function is primarily physically:
- Creates a protective film on the skin
- Locks in moisture → creating an optimal healing environment for the scar
- Reduces tension in the skin
- Regulates collagen formation, so that less excess scar tissue is formed
Result: Scars become flatter, softer and less visible. It is important to know that silicone works best on fresh scars after the wound has closed.
Quick Facts:
- Gold standard: Medical silicone has been the most cited active ingredient in dermatological scar care for over 30 years.
- Timing: Start no earlier than 10–14 days after the injury – as soon as the wound is completely closed.
- Patience pays off: First visible improvements appear after 8–12 weeks; full results after 3–6 months.
Table of Contents
- How does a scar form – and why does it need targeted care?
- Comparison of the most important active ingredients in scar care
- Gel, patch or ointment – which format is suitable for which situation?
- When to start scar care – and for how long?
- What really helps – and what doesn't: Common mistakes in scar care
- Conclusion & FAQs
How does a scar form – and why does it need targeted care?
A scar is not a defect of the body – it is the result of a precise healing process. After every deeper skin injury, the body goes through three phases:
- Phase 1 – Inflammation (Days 1–3): The body cleans the wound, blood vessels are sealed, immune cells fight germs.
- Phase 2 – Proliferation (Days 4–21): New cells are formed, collagen fibers lay over the wound – initially disordered and dense. The scar is still red and raised at this stage.
- Phase 3 – Remodeling (up to 2 years): The collagen tissue is slowly rebuilt. This is where it is decided how inconspicuous a scar will be – and this is exactly where targeted scar care comes into play.
Without care, there is a risk that the collagen will be distributed irregularly or even excessively formed: The scar remains raised, hard, or discolored. With the right care, this process can be actively supported.
Comparison of the most important active ingredients in scar care
|
Active Ingredient |
Mechanism of Action |
Suitable for |
Decalys Product |
|
Medical Silicone |
Occlusion: Traps moisture, regulates collagen production, flattens scar |
Hypertrophic scars, keloids, surgical scars, C-section |
LE GEL, CICAFILM |
|
Alpha-3 Complex® |
Supports cellular autophagy (cell cleansing), promotes active skin regeneration |
All scar types, especially sensitive and irritated skin |
LE BAUME, LA POMMADE |
|
Panthenol (B5) |
Moisture-binding, anti-inflammatory, promotes cell regeneration |
Fresh, irritated scars, red areas |
LE BAUME |
|
Zinc |
Antibacterial, wound-healing, anti-inflammatory |
Fresh scars, areas at risk of infection |
LE BAUME |
|
Vitamin C |
Regulates collagen synthesis, has antioxidant effect and reduces pigmentation |
Older, discolored or pigmented scars |
LE GEL |
|
Onion Extract |
Inhibits excessive collagen formation |
Hypertrophic scars (standard active ingredient) |
— |
What distinguishes medical silicone from drugstore scar gels?
The crucial difference lies in concentration and purity. Medical silicone in products like CICAFILM or LE GEL forms a uniform, breathable film that protects the scar for many hours. Drugstore products often contain lower concentrations or fragrances that can irritate sensitive scar skin.
Gel, patch or ointment – which format is suitable for which situation?
|
Format |
Properties |
Ideal for |
|
Silicone Gel (LE GEL) |
Transparent, fast-drying, discreet |
Face, neck, eyelid lift, small scars |
|
Silicone Patch (CICAFILM) |
24h protection, waterproof, suitable for sports |
Surgical scars, C-sections, back, large areas |
|
Care Balm (LE BAUME) |
Soothing, many active ingredients |
Reddened, irritated skin, e.g. after laser/peeling |
|
Regenerative Ointment (LA POMMADE) |
Intensively nourishing, ideal for massages |
Older, hardened scars, stretch marks |
Expert tip on mechanics: While CICAFILM, with its patch structure, additionally protects the scar from mechanical stretching or friction from clothes (especially valuable on joints or the abdominal wall), LA POMMADE enables the pressure massage so important for healing. Through targeted pressure, adhesions in the tissue are mechanically released, which makes the scar softer and more pliable.
When to start – and for how long?
- Day 0–7: Wound care only, no scar care product.
- Day 7–14 (wound closed, after suture removal): Start with silicone product: LE GEL on the face, CICAFILM on the body
- Week 3–12: First visible improvements.
- Month 6–24: For older scars, use LA POMMADE + massage.
For red, irritated or abraded skin, we recommend using LE BAUME. This is a nourishing balm that soothes the skin and supports skin regeneration. Apply at least twice a day for 1 week.
What really helps – and what doesn't: Common mistakes
Vitamin E oil: Can make the skin softer and more elastic, but has no proven effect on the visible appearance of scars
Sun without protection: The skin of the scar is extremely UV-sensitive. Without SPF 50 or covering, permanent dark pigmentation is a risk.
Premature termination of therapy: The minimum application period is 8–12 weeks.
Application to open wounds: Only start after complete wound closure!
Conclusion
Scar care is a combination of active ingredient, format, and timing. Medical silicone is the gold standard, while Decalys' Alpha-3 Complex® complements this approach through active cell regeneration (autophagy).
→ Start the Decalys scar test now
