Scars can be an unwelcome reminder of past traumas, injuries, or surgeries. They can affect a person’s self-esteem and confidence, which is why many people look for treatments to reduce their visibility.
Mederma and ScarAway are two leading products in the market that claim to improve the appearance of scars dramatically.
Our comparison of Mederma vs ScarAway aims to provide an in-depth, unbiased review of both products, their effectiveness, side effects, and overall value. So, if you’re looking for a solution to your scar woes, read on to find out which product is the best.
Mederma is a topical gel that is widely recommended for the treatment of scars. This over-the-counter product is produced by Merz Pharmaceuticals.
It contains the active ingredient Allantoin, a compound known for its ability to promote the healing of the skin. Mederma is specifically formulated to soften, smooth, and reduce the discoloration of scars which makes them less noticeable.
It’s suitable for different types of scars, including those from surgery, injury, burns, and acne. Regular application of Mederma, as per the product instructions, is necessary to achieve optimal results.
Mederma side effects
Mederma, like all skincare products, may have side effects, but they are usually mild and rare. But you must be aware of these potential reactions before using it. Some side effects of Mederma that most people experience are:
- temporary redness, itching, or minor discomfort in the area where the gel is applied.
- allergic reactions which may include severe rash, skin burns, itchy skin, or swelling of the face.
- skin color changes or the development of new scars.
Remember, these side effects are not experienced by everyone who uses the product, but it’s good to do a patch test before trying out any new skincare products.
What is ScarAway?
ScarAway is another popular over-the-counter product designed for scar management. ScarAway, made by Sinclair Pharmaceuticals, uses Silicon Sheets to mimic healthy skin and reduce the appearance of scars, restoring a more natural texture and color.
Silicone is a dermatologist-recommended scar reduction treatment and is clinically proven to flatten and soften raised scars. It also reduces redness and discoloration, relieves itchiness and discomfort, and improves the overall appearance of both old and new scars.
It’s safe and effective for scars resulting from surgery, injury, burns, acne, c-section, and more. The product claims to show noticeable improvement in as little as 4-8 weeks when used as directed.
ScarAway comes in many formats including silicone scar sheets, scar diminishing gel, and scar treatment cream, providing a range of options to cater to people’s needs and preferences.
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ScarAway side effects
Like Mederma, ScarAway can also cause side effects, although they are generally mild and rare. But to safely use the product, it’s important to be aware of its potential side effects.
- Some users report experiencing skin irritation, including redness, itchiness, or rash in the area where the silicone sheets or gel have been applied.
- There may be discomfort or a slight stinging sensation when the product is first applied.
- In some cases, people may have an allergic reaction to the silicone or other ingredients used in ScarAway products. Symptoms could include severe redness, rash, itching, or swelling in the applied area.
If any of these side effects occur, stop using it immediately and seek medical advice. Remember, it’s rare and not all people will experience these side effects, but it’s always better to be safe and informed.
Mederma vs ScarAway: Which is Best?
When comparing Mederma and ScarAway, both products are effective in many cases and have a strong reputation in the market.
Mederma, with its active ingredient Allantoin, is known for its hydrating and exfoliating properties. It works to improve the skin texture and color of your scar which makes it less noticeable. The gel format is easy to apply and is suitable for any type of scar.
In contrast, ScarAway uses Silicone, a dermatologist-recommended ingredient for scar reduction. It works by mimicking healthy skin, thus restoring a more natural texture and color to the scar. ScarAway offers versatility with its range of products, from silicone sheets to creams and gels.
Both products need regular use over time to see noticeable results, and both have potential, albeit rare, side effects.
In conclusion, both Mederma and ScarAway have their unique benefits and potential drawbacks. The choice is up to you and depends on your skin type, scar type, and personal preference.
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Pros and cons of using Mederma vs ScarAway
Pros of using Mederma:
- Mederma contains the active ingredient Allantoin, known for promoting skin healing.
- Contains onion extract, which has anti-inflammatory properties
- May improve skin texture and appearance with allantoin
- Widely available and easy to find in most drugstores
- It is generally well-tolerated, with side effects being rare.
Cons of using Mederma:
- May not be suitable for those with allergies to onion extract
- Results may vary depending on the scar type
- Some people may experience mild side effects such as itching or irritation
Pros of using ScarAway:
- Contains silicone, which forms a protective barrier over scars
- It is proven to flatten and soften raised scars, relieving discomfort and itchiness.
- May be more effective for certain types of scars, such as keloids
Cons of using ScarAway:
- Some individuals may experience mild side effects or allergic reactions to silicone
- May not be as widely available as Mederma
- Minor skin irritation can occur in the area where the product is applied
Conclusion
In conclusion, both Mederma and ScarAway have proven to be effective treatments for scar management. Mederma’s key strength lies in Allantoin, which promotes skin healing and exfoliation. ScarAway, on the other hand, uses Silicone to mimic healthy skin, restore texture and color, and reduce scar visibility, as recommended by dermatologists. In the end, the choice between the two depends on your individual needs, the type of scar to be treated, and your personal preferences.
FAQ
Can I use Mederma and ScarAway together?
Using Mederma and ScarAway together is not recommended. Both are designed to be effective as standalone treatments and using them together could potentially lead to skin irritation. It’s best to choose the product that suits your needs and preferences and use it as directed.
How long does it take to see results from using Mederma or ScarAway?
Mederma suggests that noticeable improvements can be seen in 8 weeks for newer scars and 3-6 months for older scars. ScarAway, in contrast, claims that noticeable improvements can occur in as little as 4-8 weeks. Keep in mind that these are estimates and results may differ for each person.
Does Mederma really work on old scars?
Yes, Mederma does work on old scars. The product is designed to improve the color, texture, and overall appearance of both new and old scars. According to Mederma, newer scars may improve in as little as 8 weeks, while older scars may take 3-6 months to show noticeable changes. Keep in mind that older scars may require a longer treatment period.
Does Mederma work on keloid scars?
Yes, Mederma can be used to treat keloid scars. Keloid scars are an excess of tissue that forms during the healing process after an injury. They can be challenging to treat. While Mederma can help reduce the visibility of keloid scars and improve their texture and color, it may not completely eliminate them.
