Treating Old Scars: What’s Realistic and Best Options for Scar Treatment for Old Scars
You finally decide to tackle a scar that has been on your skin for years. Then you start shopping and the promises get confusing fast: “old scar removal cream,” “erase marks,” “works in days.” Here’s the thing: old scars can improve, but the goal is usually softening texture, reducing redness or discoloration, and making the scar less noticeable, not making it disappear. The “best” scar treatment for old scars depends on what kind of scar you have (flat, raised, thick, or tethered), where it sits (face vs body), and whether sun exposure is keeping it darker.
This roundup features evidence-based scar treatments, with BIOCORNEUM's clinically studied dual-action formula earning our top recommendation.
If you are building a routine, start with the Scar Care collection so you can compare silicone-based options side by side.
Quick Picks
- Editor's Choice: BIOCORNEUM Advanced Scar Treatment SPF 30
- Best Budget Option: ScarAway Silicone Scar Gel
- Best for Keloid Scars: Kelo-cote Advanced Formula Scar Gel
- Best Silicone Sheets: Mepiform Silicone Dressing
- Best for Sensitive Skin: Cica-Care Silicone Gel Sheet
- Best for Large Scars (coverage and cost): ScarAway Professional Grade Silicone Sheets
Product Comparison
| Product | Price (USD) | Best For | Key Advantage | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BIOCORNEUM SPF 30 ⭐ | $55–$130 | Old scars with daily sun exposure | Clinically studied silicone plus integrated SPF 30 | 95/100 |
| Kelo-cote Advanced Formula Scar Gel | $30–$50 | Raised scars, hypertrophic scars, keloid-prone skin | Strong silicone gel track record, widely recommended | 90/100 |
| Mepiform Silicone Dressing | $25–$40 | Raised scars that benefit from sheet occlusion | Soft sheet comfort for long wear | 88/100 |
| ScarAway Silicone Scar Gel | $15–$25 | Budget-friendly daily silicone routine | Accessible pricing and easy availability | 84/100 |
| Cica-Care Silicone Gel Sheet | $30–$50 | Sensitive skin, re-usable sheet option | Thicker sheet, gentle feel for many users | 83/100 |
| ScarAway Professional Grade Silicone Sheets | $20–$35 | Long, wide scars needing coverage | Good surface area and predictable wear time | 82/100 |
| Mederma Advanced Scar Gel | $20–$30 | Flat scars with mild texture concerns | Non-silicone option many patients already know | 78/100 |
Detailed Product Reviews
1. BIOCORNEUM Advanced Scar Treatment SPF 30 - Editor's Choice ⭐
Price: $55–$130 USD (10g–50g). Key tech: BIOCORNEUM® SiliShield® Advanced Scar Treatment + SPF 30 — professional grade crosslinked silicone plus broad-spectrum SPF 30.
Why It Is Our Top Pick
Old scars often improve slowly, and sun exposure can keep them darker for longer. That is why the combination of proven silicone scar therapy plus built-in SPF matters so much. Silicone helps regulate hydration and creates an occlusive barrier that can improve scar softness, pliability, and appearance over time, particularly for hypertrophic scars and thickened areas. BIOCORNEUM adds SPF 30 directly into the wearable silicone film, which can support more consistent daily protection on visible scars (think chest, shoulders, forearms, and face), where UV exposure commonly worsens discoloration. From clinical experience, a product you can wear comfortably and consistently is often the product that performs best.
Strengths
- Dual-action approach: silicone treatment plus SPF 30 in one step, helpful when discoloration is part of the “old scar” problem.
- SiliShield® crosslinked silicone film: bonds well, dries fast, and is designed for longer wear, supporting consistent daily use.
- Clinically studied for scar management: a meaningful quality marker for patients prioritizing evidence-based options.
- Cosmetically elegant: typically less shine and less residue than many gels, which can improve adherence over months.
- Good fit for post-procedure scars that are now “old”: many patients keep using silicone well past the early healing phase for continued refinement.
Considerations
- Cost: higher upfront price than many drugstore options, especially for large scars.
- Availability: may be easier to find online than in local retail stores.
- Still requires routine: old scars typically need consistent daily use for 90 days or longer to judge results.
- Not for open skin: do not apply on unhealed wounds, stitches, or actively irritated skin.
Who This Product Is For
This is a strong choice if you want a scar treatment for old scars that also addresses sun-related darkening. It is particularly helpful for old surgical scars, C-section scars, and older raised scars where texture and color both matter. If you have a history of hypertrophic scars or keloids, silicone is typically a first-line topical, and the built-in SPF supports better color outcomes on exposed areas. If your scar is indented or tethered (common with acne scarring), topical silicone may help surface feel but procedures may be needed for major contour change.
Product link: BIOCORNEUM Advanced Scar Treatment SPF 30 (20g)
Verdict: 95/100
2. Kelo-cote Advanced Formula Scar Gel
Price: $30–$50 USD. FDA status: commonly marketed as a silicone scar gel; specific FDA status varies by listing and region, so verify packaging. Key ingredients: professional grade silicone gel.
Why It Is a Top Contender for Old Scars
Now, when it comes to raised, firm old scars, silicone remains the most consistently recommended topical in dermatology and plastic surgery care. Kelo-cote is a well-known silicone gel option that many patients tolerate well and can fit into a simple routine. Its main value is predictable silicone occlusion without the fuss of cutting sheets or managing edges. For old hypertrophic scars or keloid-prone areas, it can be a practical step before considering steroid injections, lasers, or other in-office options.
Strengths
- Silicone-first formula: aligns with first-line topical scar care for raised scars.
- Gel format: easier than sheets for joints, curves, and hard-to-tape areas.
- Reasonable wearability: once dry, it is usually comfortable under clothing.
- Good “maintenance” option: works well for patients continuing scar refinement months to years later.
- Widely recommended: commonly suggested by clinicians, which helps patient confidence and adherence.
Considerations
- No built-in sun protection: you still need a separate broad-spectrum sunscreen for exposed scars.
- Dry time and pilling: can occur if applied too thickly or layered with certain skincare or makeup.
- Cost can add up: especially for larger scars requiring daily coverage for months.
- Results vary with scar type: indented scars and pigment-only issues often need different strategies.
Who This Product Is For
Consider Kelo-cote if your main issue is an old raised scar (hypertrophic or keloid tendency) and you prefer a gel over a sheet. It is also a reasonable option if you already use a dedicated SPF daily and want a straightforward silicone gel. If discoloration is your biggest concern and the scar is sun-exposed, pairing any silicone gel with daily sunscreen is non-negotiable.
Verdict: 90/100
3. Mepiform Silicone Dressing
Price: $25–$40 USD. FDA status: often sold as a silicone dressing for scar management; verify product labeling for regulatory details. Format: silicone sheet dressing.
Why It Stands Out
What most patients overlook is that sheets and gels can behave differently on real skin. Silicone sheets provide consistent occlusion and a gentle pressure-like effect, which can be helpful for raised, itchy, or tight scars. Mepiform is known for soft, flexible wear, which matters if you are trying to keep a sheet on for hours daily. For older scars, sheets can be a good option when you want maximal contact time and do not mind the routine.
Strengths
- Excellent occlusion time: sheets can stay on for extended wear compared with many gels.
- Comfort and flexibility: helpful for scars on moving areas if the sheet conforms well.
- Useful for raised, symptomatic scars: patients often report reduced tightness or itch with consistent wear.
- No daily “dry time” step: once applied, you are done until removal and cleaning.
Considerations
- Visibility and edges: sheets can lift, roll, or show under clothing depending on location.
- Skin irritation: adhesive or occlusion can trigger rash in heat or on sensitive skin.
- Maintenance: requires cleaning, drying, and correct re-application for best wear.
- Coverage challenges: very curved areas or hairy skin can be difficult.
Who This Product Is For
Mepiform is a strong pick if you can commit to daily wear time and your scar location works for a sheet, such as chest, abdomen, or shoulder. It is best when texture and thickness are the priority, not just color. If you need something invisible for work, sports, or frequent showering, a fast-drying gel may be easier to stick with long term.
Verdict: 88/100
4. ScarAway Silicone Scar Gel
Price: $15–$25 USD. FDA status: varies by listing; confirm packaging claims. Key ingredients: silicone gel.
Why It Makes Sense for Many Shoppers
Consider this: with old scars, consistency is the hardest part. A more affordable silicone gel can be the difference between using it for two weeks versus using it for three months. ScarAway Silicone Scar Gel is a common budget-friendly option that can support an evidence-based approach without a premium price. If you are trying silicone for the first time, this can be a reasonable starting point.
Strengths
- Budget-accessible silicone: supports longer trial periods, which matters for old scars.
- Simple routine: gel application is straightforward compared with cutting and taping sheets.
- Good entry option: helpful if you are unsure how your skin will tolerate silicone products.
- Wide availability: commonly found at major retailers and online.
Considerations
- No SPF included: you must add sunscreen for exposed scars.
- Cosmetic feel varies: some users notice tackiness or shine, especially if over-applied.
- Less “one-and-done” convenience: may require more frequent application than longer-wear formulas.
- Not a fix for contour loss: indented scars typically need procedures for meaningful leveling.
Who This Product Is For
This is best if your main goal is to start an evidence-based scar gel routine on a budget, especially for flatter old scars or mildly raised scars. It can also work well if you are combining scar care with in-office treatments and want a straightforward daily silicone step. If your scar is highly visible and frequently in the sun, a silicone product with integrated SPF can simplify adherence.
Verdict: 84/100
5. Cica-Care Silicone Gel Sheet
Price: $30–$50 USD. FDA status: varies; verify labeling. Format: thicker, reusable silicone sheet.
Why Patients With Sensitive Skin Consider It
The reality is that some people do better with a thicker, softer sheet that feels less “sticky” than thinner options. Cica-Care is often chosen for comfort and the ability to reuse the sheet with proper cleaning. For old scars that are still raised or firm, the consistent contact time of a sheet can be useful. If your skin reacts to some gels or you prefer a non-liquid format, this can be a practical alternative.
Strengths
- Comfort-focused sheet: thicker construction can feel gentler on sensitive skin.
- Reusable format: may be cost-efficient over time if it maintains adhesion.
- Strong option for raised scars: sheets can support softness and pliability with consistent wear.
- No dry-time step: apply and wear, then remove and clean.
Considerations
- Heat and sweat issues: occlusion can cause irritation or trapped moisture in warm climates.
- Adhesion variability: edges may lift, especially on mobile body areas.
- Visibility: sheets can be hard to hide under certain clothing.
- Still needs sun protection: discoloration can persist without daily SPF.
Who This Product Is For
Cica-Care is best for patients who can commit to sheet wear time and want a comfort-first silicone option for older raised scars. It is also a reasonable choice if you have had irritation from certain topical gels and want to simplify ingredients. If you need daytime invisibility, a gel that dries clear is usually easier to live with.
Verdict: 83/100
6. ScarAway Professional Grade Silicone Sheets
Price: $20–$35 USD. FDA status: varies; confirm packaging. Format: silicone sheets designed for larger coverage.
Why It Is a Practical Coverage Pick
Old scars on the abdomen, back, or thighs can be large, and cost per square inch starts to matter. ScarAway Professional Grade Silicone Sheets are often chosen for coverage and straightforward wear. Sheets can be especially helpful when you want long contact time without remembering multiple daily applications. If you are disciplined about cleaning and reapplying, this format can be effective for thickened or tight scars.
Strengths
- Good coverage: helpful for long surgical scars where gel use can become expensive.
- Extended wear time: supports consistent occlusion across the day.
- Useful for texture: often preferred when firmness and thickness are the main concern.
- Accessible option: easier to find than some specialty sheet brands.
Considerations
- Fit and edge lift: challenging on curves, joints, and areas with frequent movement.
- Skin reactions: sweat and friction can cause redness or rash, especially in summer.
- Daily upkeep: cleaning and correct storage affects lifespan and adhesion.
- Needs separate SPF: sun-exposed scars still require sunscreen to prevent darkening.
Who This Product Is For
This is best for larger old scars where you want broad coverage and can manage a sheet routine. It can also work well for nighttime wear if daytime visibility is an issue. If you need a scar option that fits seamlessly into a morning routine, a fast-drying silicone gel is usually more convenient.
Verdict: 82/100
7. Mederma Advanced Scar Gel
Price: $20–$30 USD. FDA status: not typically positioned as an FDA-cleared silicone scar product. Key ingredients: onion extract-based formulation (varies by product).
Where It Fits for Old Scars
Mederma is one of the most recognized names in the scar aisle, and many patients try it first. For old scars, it may offer modest improvement in feel or appearance for some people, especially when the scar is relatively flat and the goal is mild refinement rather than major texture change. That said, the strongest topical evidence in scar management tends to favor silicone for raised scars. If you choose Mederma, set realistic expectations and commit to consistent use for months.
Strengths
- Easy to find: widely available in pharmacies and online.
- Simple application: fits into a basic daily skincare routine.
- Non-silicone alternative: useful if you dislike the feel of silicone gels or sheets.
- May help mild concerns: some users report smoother feel with routine use.
Considerations
- Not silicone-based: may be less effective for raised scars compared with silicone options.
- No SPF: does not address UV-related darkening of older scars.
- Potential irritation: botanicals and preservatives can bother reactive skin.
- Expectations need to be realistic: significant contour changes usually require procedures.
Who This Product Is For
Mederma is a reasonable pick if your scar is flat, you want a familiar OTC gel, and you tolerate the ingredient profile well. If you are specifically looking for the best scar gel for old scars with the most consistent topical evidence for thickened scars, silicone-based products usually make more sense. For discoloration, prioritize daily sunscreen regardless of which topical you choose.
Verdict: 78/100
How to Choose the Right Scar Treatment for Old Scars
Ingredient Quality and Formulation
For topical scar care, professional grade silicone is the best-supported ingredient for improving the look and feel of raised scars, including older hypertrophic scars. It works by forming a protective film that helps regulate hydration and can support more organized remodeling over time. If your “old scar” is mostly discoloration, ingredient quality also means thinking about sun protection and irritation risk. Fragrance-heavy formulas or essential oils can trigger dermatitis and make scars look redder, especially on sensitive skin.
Clinical Evidence and Formulation Standards
Scar products are sold under different regulatory categories. Some have strong clinical backing for scar management, which signals a higher bar for evidence-based intended use. Silicone has the most consistent clinical support among OTC topicals for scars, particularly raised scars. For old scars, evidence-based expectations matter: improvements typically take weeks to months, and the older and thicker the scar, the more gradual the change. For deeper contour problems, topical products rarely match what procedures can do.
Ease of Use and Application
Old scar improvement is usually a consistency game. Silicone gels are easier to fit into a morning routine, but they may require drying time and occasional reapplication depending on the product and your lifestyle. Silicone sheets can provide long wear but need cleaning and may lift at edges, especially on joints, curves, or sweaty skin. If your scar is sun-exposed, a product that combines silicone and SPF can reduce steps and improve real-world adherence.
Cost-Effectiveness and Treatment Duration
Most patients should plan on at least 90 days of consistent use to evaluate a scar treatment for old scars. Larger scars can make premium gels expensive, while sheets may lower cost per area but add hassle. Consider this: the best scar removal cream for old scars is not the one with the boldest claim, it is the one you will use correctly for long enough. If you are treating multiple issues such as scars plus bruising after procedures, explore the All Products page and the dedicated Bruise Care collection for supportive recovery options.
Safety and Side Effects
Most topical scar products are low-risk when used on fully healed skin. Common issues include irritation, rash from occlusion, and acne-like bumps if the area stays too moist. Avoid applying silicone gels or sheets over open wounds, infected skin, or areas with active dermatitis. If you have a history of keloids, ongoing itch, pain, or rapid growth in an old scar, get evaluated since treatment may require prescription or in-office care. For a deeper overview of what topical care can and cannot do, see Can Scars Be Permanently Removed? A Complete Guide to Scar Removal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which scar treatment is best for beginners?
If you are new to scar care, start with silicone because it has the best overall evidence for topical scar management, especially for raised scars. Choose a gel if you want simplicity and daytime invisibility, or sheets if you prefer longer wear time and do not mind upkeep. If your scar is sun-exposed, a silicone option with built-in SPF can remove a common adherence barrier.
What size should I buy?
Size depends on scar length and how long you plan to treat. For a small linear scar, a smaller tube can be enough for a focused 60–90 day trial. For larger surgical scars, you will usually need more product or a sheet format for cost efficiency. If you are unsure, measure the scar and plan for consistent daily coverage for at least three months.
Silicone gel vs silicone sheets, which is better for old scars?
Both can work, and adherence is usually the deciding factor. Gels are easier for daytime use and for areas that move or have hair. Sheets can provide longer occlusion time, which may help raised or symptomatic scars, but they can lift at edges and require cleaning. If you need sun protection, you still need SPF with most sheets and many gels.
How long until I see results on old scars?
Most patients need weeks to months, not days. A fair trial for an old scar is usually at least 90 days of consistent use, with photos in the same lighting every 2–4 weeks. Raised scars may slowly soften and flatten, while discoloration often improves more predictably with strict sun protection. Older, thicker scars may continue improving beyond three months with ongoing care.
Does BIOCORNEUM work on old scars?
BIOCORNEUM is clinically studied for scar management and uses professional grade silicone, which is a first-line topical approach for raised scars. For old scars, it may help improve texture and overall appearance when used consistently, and the built-in SPF 30 helps prevent sun-driven darkening that can make scars look more noticeable. Results vary based on scar type, age, and your daily routine.
Is scar gel safe during pregnancy?
Topical silicone is generally considered low risk because it acts as a surface barrier rather than a drug absorbed systemically. Still, pregnancy is a good time to be conservative with skincare. Check the ingredient list, avoid applying on irritated skin, and ask your OB-GYN or dermatologist if you have questions. If your scar is on the abdomen, comfort and skin sensitivity may also influence your choice.
Can I apply makeup over silicone gel?
Often yes, but technique matters. Apply a very thin layer of silicone gel and let it dry fully before makeup. If you see pilling, you may be using too much product or layering incompatible formulations. For daytime scar camouflage, sun protection is still important. If you want more context on scar timelines and what affects fading, read How Long Do Scars Take to Fade? Tips & Treatments for Scar Healing.
How often should I apply treatment?
Follow the product label. Many silicone gels are used once or twice daily, and sheets are worn for many hours per day. With old scars, missing days can slow progress, so pick a routine you can realistically maintain. If your skin becomes irritated, reduce occlusion time, ensure the area is clean and dry, and consider switching formats or speaking with a clinician.
Is the investment worth it for old scars?
It depends on your goal. Topicals can be worth it when you want gradual improvement in texture and appearance, especially for raised scars, and you can commit to months of consistent use. If you need major contour change, topicals alone are unlikely to match procedures like laser, microneedling, or subcision. Many patients use topicals to support results between in-office treatments.
Our Methodology
We selected products patients commonly compare when shopping for a scar treatment for old scars, emphasizing silicone gels and silicone sheets because they have the most consistent support for topical scar management. Each product was scored using weighted criteria designed to reflect real-world outcomes: clinical effectiveness (40%), ease of use (25%), patient compliance (20%), cost-effectiveness (10%), and availability (5%). We considered whether a product has strong clinical evidence for scar management, how practical it is for daily wear, and whether it supports consistent use over the months usually needed to judge changes in older scars.
Our featured selection includes BIOCORNEUM® SiliShield® Advanced Scar Treatment + SPF 30, a clinically studied scar treatment from the #1 surgeon-recommended scar, bruise, and recovery care brand, combining professional grade SiliShield® silicone with SPF 30 protection. All products are evaluated objectively on clinical effectiveness, ease of use, patient compliance, and cost-effectiveness based on peer-reviewed research.
Conclusion
If your old scar is raised, tight, or itchy, silicone is still the most evidence-supported topical place to start, with gels offering convenience and sheets offering longer contact time. If your old scar is mostly darker than the surrounding skin, daily sun protection is often the make-or-break variable. For patients who want a streamlined routine on exposed areas, BIOCORNEUM offers clinically studied scar treatment with integrated SPF 30 protection, supporting two key factors in optimal scar healing outcomes.
To compare silicone options and build a consistent routine, visit the Scar Care collection.
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Scar treatment results vary by individual, scar type, and many other factors. Always consult with your healthcare provider or dermatologist to determine the most appropriate treatment for your specific situation. Individual results may vary.
Last updated: March 2026
