Over-the-counter scar products for postsurgical patients: Disparities between online advertised benefits and evidence regarding efficacy

Surgical patients frequently read about over-the-counter (OTC) scar products online and ask physicians for advice about product use. We summarized the characteristics of the 20 best-selling scar products on the Web site drugstore.com and reviewed the medical literature for data supporting the efficacy of OTC scar products used on fresh postsurgical wounds. Products had an average price of $16.25 (range $9.49-$59.99) and an average of 9.2 ingredients (range 1-29). Silicone, vitamin E, and onion extract were common ingredients. Although weak evidence indicates that silicone gel dressings may improve postsurgical scar appearance, published evidence does not support postoperative use of most scar products. However, many products have multiple ingredients, and few clinical trials assess the ingredient combinations of specific products. The practical information about OTC scar products and published efficacy data found in this review may help physicians to counsel patients about postsurgical product use and counter unrealistic expectations gained from online advertisements.

Abbreviations used: FDA, Food and Drug Administration, OTC, over-the-counter