Silicone Scar Sheets: 2025 Comparison Guide

October 23, 2025 QRxLabs

When a wound closes, the journey to restore your skin's appearance begins. Scars are a natural part of this process, but their appearance can be a source of concern for many. With so many products available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. Two of the most common names you'll encounter are silicone scar sheets and Mederma.

Understanding the differences between them is key to making an informed choice for your skin. This guide will compare these two popular options, looking at their ingredients, the scientific evidence behind them, and which might be best for your specific needs.

Understanding Silicone Scar Sheets

Silicone scar sheets are a non-invasive, gentle option for scar management. They are widely considered by medical professionals to be a first-line option for reducing the appearance of hypertrophic (raised) and keloid scars [5]. This technology has been trusted in scar care for over 30 years [3].

How They Work

The science behind silicone sheets is based on two key principles: hydration and occlusion.

Hydration: The sheet covers the scar, trapping moisture and creating a hydrated environment. This helps to soften the scar tissue, making it more pliable and improving its texture and color [4].
Occlusion: By covering the scar, the sheet creates a protective barrier that mimics the function of healthy skin. This process helps to normalize collagen production, which can help prevent excessive or disorganized scarring [1].

Nuvadermis Silicone Scar Sheets are a leading choice, offering medical-grade silicone in a soft, breathable, and flexible format. They provide comfortable 24-hour wear and can be trimmed to fit any scar size, making them a versatile and effective option.

What is Mederma?

Mederma is a well-known brand of over-the-counter scar products, available in formats like gels, creams, and oils. While Mederma now offers silicone-based products, its most famous product is Mederma® Advanced Scar Gel, which relies on a different set of ingredients.

The primary ingredients in this popular gel are:

Cepalin®: A proprietary botanical extract derived from onions.
Allantoin: A skin protectant that helps to moisturize the skin [7].

Mederma products aim to make scars appear softer, smoother, and less noticeable through moisturization.

The Scientific Evidence: A Head-to-Head Comparison

When you're choosing a product for your skin, the clinical evidence is what matters most. Here’s how silicone sheets and Mederma's onion extract gel stack up.

The Power of Silicone

Silicone's effectiveness is supported by decades of clinical use and research. It is consistently recommended by dermatologists and plastic surgeons as the "gold standard" for scar management [3]. Numerous studies have shown that silicone sheets can significantly improve scar height, color, and pliability [2]. This strong backing is why brands like Nuvadermis focus on creating high-quality, medical-grade silicone products.

The Evidence for Mederma (Onion Extract)

The evidence for Cepalin, Mederma's key ingredient, is less conclusive. Some observational studies have suggested benefits. One noninterventional study of 1,268 patients using a gel with extractum cepae found that early use led to high satisfaction rates among patients (85.8%) and physicians (86.6%) [6].

However, other independent studies have not found a significant difference between onion extract gel and basic moisturizers. As detailed in our complete Nuvadermis line analysis, some researchers have concluded that products like Mederma did not offer superior improvement in scar appearance compared to a simple ointment.

At a Glance: Silicone vs. Mederma

Feature	Silicone Scar Sheets (like Nuvadermis)	Mederma® Advanced Scar Gel
Primary Mechanism	Hydration & Occlusion to normalize collagen	Moisturizing and skin protection
Main Ingredient	Medical-Grade Silicone	Cepalin® (Onion Extract), Allantoin
Clinical Evidence	Considered the "gold standard" with extensive clinical support	Mixed results; not consistently shown to be superior to basic moisturizers
Application	Worn for 12-24 hours; reusable sheet	Applied once daily; non-reusable gel
Best For	Raised scars (hypertrophic, keloids), post-surgical scars	Minor surface scars and discoloration
Value	Reusable sheets offer excellent long-term value	Requires continuous purchase of new product

Choosing the Right Product for You

The best choice depends on your scar type, its location, and your lifestyle.

Choose Silicone Scar Sheets if: You have raised, keloid, or significant surgical scars (like C-sections). The gentle, constant pressure and hydration from a sheet is ideal for flattening and softening this type of scar tissue. Nuvadermis Silicone Scar Sheets are perfect for areas that can be covered, offering consistent contact for optimal results.
Consider a Gel if: Your scar is on a joint, your face, or another area where a sheet may be inconvenient. Gels are discreet and easy to apply to smaller or irregular areas. For these situations, a silicone-based gel, like Nuvadermis Advanced Scar Gel, provides the proven benefits of silicone in a fast-absorbing format. You can learn more about which option may work best for you on our blog.

How to Use Nuvadermis Silicone Scar Sheets

For the best results, consistency and proper application are essential.

Begin using the sheets as soon as your wound is fully closed and any scabs are gone.
Wash and thoroughly dry the scar area before application.
Cut the sheet to fit the scar, allowing for about a half-inch of overlap on the surrounding skin.
Peel the protective film from the adhesive side of the sheet.
Apply the adhesive side directly over the scar. Ensure the edges are smooth.
Wear the sheet for at least 12 hours a day. Each sheet is washable and reusable for up to one week with proper care.

With consistent use, you may see visible improvement in as little as 4-8 weeks for new scars and 3-6 months for older scars.

Important Safety Information

For external use only on healed, closed skin.
Do not use on open wounds or unhealed skin.
In the rare event of a rash or allergic reaction, stop use and consult a doctor.
Keep out of reach of children and pets.

Your Path to Skin Confidence

When it comes to reducing the appearance of scars, the weight of clinical evidence is on the side of silicone. While Mederma may help with hydration, silicone therapy is the dermatologist-recommended approach for creating an optimal environment to improve scar texture, color, and smoothness [4].

Brands like Nuvadermis are committed to providing medical-grade, science-backed solutions that offer gentle, effective care. By choosing a product based on proven technology, you are taking a confident step toward restoring your skin.

Ready to start your journey to smoother-looking skin? Explore the complete collection of Nuvadermis scar care products and find the right solution for you.