Scars: impact and management, with a focus on topical silicone-based treatments.

Many people are living with scars caused by surgery or traumatic injury. Scar prevention in the early stages of wound healing is an essential aspect of care. Ongoing scar management is generally by self-care, using non-invasive methods such as silicone sheeting and/or massage. Silicone is considered to be the first-line non-invasive, prophylactic and therapeutic measure for scar management. Nurses have a role in supporting patients with self-care of their scars as well as providing psychological support, as the impact of a scar and effect of quality of life can be significant.