Inform issue 26 – Summer 2019

Effective in flattening, fading and softening
up to 90% of red
and raised scars 4,5
CICA-CARE – Let the anxiety fade 1,2
CICA-CARE Gel Sheets have been shown in studies to flatten,
fade and soften red and raised scars in up to 90% of cases. 4,5
This includes both new and existing hypertrophic and keloid
scars. Additionally, CICA-CARE Gel Sheets have been shown to
be effective in the cosmetic appearance of scars up to 20 years
old, 3 making them potentially suitable for patients who have
experienced the long-lasting impact of scarring. When used
correctly, CICA-CARE can give you results in as little as
2–4 months. 4,5
More than “just a scar”
For many patients, a scar is more than an imperfection – it’s a
source of physical and emotional distress. 1,2 Given the significant
impact scarring can have on patients’ lives, international guidelines
now recommend that following surgery or trauma, the first priority
should always be the prevention of abnormal scar formation. 6
Before After 1
CICA-CARE Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if CICA-CARE will work on scar(s)?
The scar needs to be red and raised for CICA-CARE to be effective
– it doesn’t work on white and flat scars.
How is CICA-CARE used and how long will it take for the scar to
get better?
It can vary from person to person and from scar to scar. Some
people may see an improvement within days. When used correctly,
best results are seen after 2-4 months of treatment. CICA-CARE
wear time should be increased from 4 hours per day for the first
two days up to a minimum of 12 hours per day. Refer to the pack
insert for details. If possible, CICA-CARE should be worn 24 hours
per day. This build up is necessary to get the skin accustomed to
the gel sheet. Painless to remove and easy to replace, CICA-CARE
stays in place, although a light bandage or tape may give extra
help to hold it in place. CICA-CARE can be cut to size to fit most
scars. Each separate cut piece will last up to one month in use. It is
durable and reusable.
How soon can CICA-CARE be used after an injury?
CICA-CARE Gel Sheet may be used on any old or new closed
wound. This includes red and raised scars resulting from
surgical incisions such as Caesarean section, cosmetic surgery
or accidental injuries, such as burns or cuts. Always ensure the
wound is fully closed before using CICA-CARE Gel Sheet. Do not
use on open or infected wounds, scabs, over stitches or anywhere
where there is broken skin.
Products listed may not be right for you. Read any warnings before purchase.
Smith & Nephew Pty Ltd 85 Waterloo Rd North Ryde NSW 2113 Australia T +61 2 9857 3999 F +61 2 9857 3900. Trademark of Smith & Nephew. SN14231.
References 1. Newell R. Psychological difficulties amongst plastic surgery ex-patients following surgery to the face: a survey. Brit J Plast Surg 2000; 53: 386-392. 2. Rumsey N, et al. Exploring the psychosocial concerns of
outpatients with disfiguring conditions. J Wound Care 2003; 12: 247-252. 3. Quinn KJ. Silicone gel in scar treatment. Burns 1987; 13 (supp) : S33-S40. 4. Carney SA, et al. Cica-care gel sheeting in the management of hypertrophic
scarring. Burns 1994;20: 163-167. 5. Mercer NSG. Silicone gel in the treatment of keloid scars. Br J Plast Surg 1989; 42: 83-87. 6. Monstrey S, et al. Updated scar management practical guidelines: non-invasive and invasive
measures. JPRAS 2014; 67:1017-1025.