Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe?
Yes, Silagen products are manufactured with a specially formulated medical grade silicone, developed to be non-toxic and non-irritating. It is safe for use on children and adults as well as all skin types. It is bio-compatible and does not absorb into the skin. It stays on the surface to provide a protective barrier layer.
Does Silagen work on keloid and hypertrophic scars?
Yes, silicone gel sheeting and silicone ointment have been proven to reduce, flatten, fade and smooth these difficult types of scars.
Does Silagen work on old scars?
Yes, clinical studies have shown that silicone sheeting and ointment are effective for many patients in improving older red and raised scars. Improvements include softening, flattening and a reduction in discoloration. However, in general, the sooner the products are applied after the scar has formed, the better the expected results.
Can I use Silagen to prevent hypertrophic scars or keloids from forming?
Yes, silicone gel and sheeting are recommended in the International Scar Treatment Guidelines to help prevent abnormal scar formation after surgery or injury. See our Breast Reduction Case Study in our Case Studies section to see a treated vs. untreated breast post-surgery.
How soon after a surgery can I start using Silagen?
Silagen can be used as soon as the wound is fully closed (sutures removed, no scabbing or oozing).
How soon will I see improvement in my scar?
Times vary both by individual and by type of scar. Some people begin seeing improvement in the first week but, in general, positive results are usually seen in 3 to 7 weeks with optimal results occurring after 3 months of use.
How many hours per day should I wear Silagen?
Silagen sheeting and ointment is formulated to be worn 6 to 24 hours per day – the more time Silagen is in contact with the scar, the greater the effect. Silagen should be removed once every 12 hours for inspection of the scar site and to allow the site to be washed and thoroughly dried.
How long should I use Silagen to get the best results?
Silagen should be used until you stop seeing improvement. Total treatment time is usually 3 months.
Are there clinical studies showing the effectiveness of silicone for scar treatment?
Yes, there have been over one hundred clinical studies confirming silicone gel’s effectiveness in treating scars.
Can I purchase Silagen products from a store in my area?
Silagen is a physician exclusive product offered by authorized physicians in the U.S. both in stores and online. Contact your physician or fill out our ‘Contact Us Form’ and we will be happy to assist you regarding your specific needs/requests.
Is Silagen covered by insurance?
Coverage varies by procedure and insurance company. To determine if you are covered, please contact your insurance company.
Where covered, Silagen usually falls into the following category and procedure codes – your doctor can help you determine which classification you should report:
HCPCS Code: A6025 Gel sheet for dermal or epidermal application
Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) code: 99070
International Classification of Diseases (ICD9CM) codes:
Keloid Scar: 701.4
Scar conditions and fibrosis of the skin: 709.2
Adjustment reaction with anxiety and depression: 309.28
Brief acute depressive reaction: 309.0
Neuralgia or neuritis: 792.2
Burns – Face: 906.5
Burns – Wrist: 906.6
Burns – Extremities: 906.7
Burns – Other specified areas: 906.8
Burns – Other unspecified areas: 906.9
Can I use Silagen if I have a skin rash or skin condition?
Silagen should not be used on any skin with a rash, irritated skin, or skin with cracked/open areas.
How does Silagen sheeting work?
Silagen silicone sheeting improves scars by providing a combination of occlusion (seals the scar from exposure to air), hydration, elevated skin temperature and continuous light pressure. This prevents the skin from producing excessive scar tissue, and helps the scar to stay flat, soft and less red.
How long will Silagen sheeting last?
When properly handled, each piece will last up to four weeks. Unused pieces are still ok to use for several years after purchase.
Can Silagen be used on children?
Yes, it is safe for use on children and adults.
If I’m using Silagen sheeting do I also need Silagen gel?
Silagen sheeting and Silagen gel are often used in combination, but not at the same time. Many people use one product during the day and the other at night to provide 24 hour-a-day coverage, especially for high visibility areas such as the face, neck, hands and legs.
Can I cut Silagen sheets?
Yes, they can be cut to fit any scar, simply make sure to cut Silagen so that it extends ½ inch on all sides of the scar.
How do I clean Silagen Sheeting?
See How to use Silagen Sheeting.
Can I apply any other medications under Silagen?
No, nothing should be applied under Silagen sheeting. Any lotion or medication that gets under the sheet can cause Silagen to lose adhesion and effectiveness.
Should I take Silagen off when I shower, bathe or exercise?
Yes, removing Silagen sheeting whenever entering the water or exercising will prolong its life.
How do I store Silagen?
Keep packaging for storage of the product when not in use. For large products that come in tubes, store product flat, backing side down.
How do I dispose of Silagen?
Our Product material, as supplied, is a not hazardous waste according to federal regulation (40 CFR 261). Dispose of unused product as a non-hazardous solid waste in accordance with federal, state, and local regulations.
How does Silagen work?
Silagen silicone gel improves scars by providing a combination of occlusion (seals the scar from exposure to air) and hydration. This prevents the skin from producing excessive scar tissue, and helps the scar to stay flat, soft and less red.
How long does a tube of Silagen gel last?
Our 0.5 ounce (15 gram) tube contains enough ointment to treat a 3 inch scar for 3 months. Below is a chart with recommended number of tubes to purchase based on the size of scar and a recommended treatment time of 3 months:
SCAR LENGTH
Up to 3 inches: 1 tube
4 inches to 6 inches: 2 tubes
7 inches to 9 inches: 3 tubes
10 inches to 12 inches: 4 tubes
Can Silagen be used on children?
Yes, it is safe for use on children and adults.
Can I use Silagen gel with Silagen sheeting?
Silagen sheeting and Silagen gel are often used in combination, but should not be used at the same time. We suggest using one product during the day and the other at night to provide 24 hour-a-day coverage, especially for high visibility areas such as the face, neck, hands and legs.
How does Silagen work?
See How to use Silagen Gel.