What Causes a Scar?
Mederma is an over-the-counter drug that is used to treat scars. It comes in both gel and cream form. In order to better understand how Mederma works, one must first understand how a scar is formed. When the skin is cut the body begins to grow new fibers that do not take the place of the old skin, but protect the inner layers of the body from exposure. Known as scar tissue, this skin is typically lighter, harder and more fibrous than the skin around it. Since it does not have as much of a blood supply circulating to it, the scar may become hard because the sweat glands that would keep the scar moist are typically damaged.
Active Ingredients
The active ingredient in Mederma is called allium cepa, which is onion extract that is found to have anti-bacterial as well as anti-inflammatory properties. Since scar tissue forms a protective barrier over the skin, the allium cepa in Mederma means that the skin has less hard tissue to produce while the wound is fully healing. In addition to onion extract, aloe is added to Mederma in order to soften the scar, making the wound less pronounced on the skin.
Use Only as Directed
Mederma should be applied to the area only after the wound has begun to heal and there is no danger of infection. Applying Mederma to an open wound can cause a burning or painful sensation and does not enhance its scar-fighting capabilities. It is recommended that you apply it three times a day to keep the scar moist and bacteria-free. For a new scar, Mederma should be applied for eight weeks; for an old scar, three to six months. The product's label advertises that patients should begin seeing results in four weeks.
Tags: allium cepa, keep scar, keep scar moist, Mederma should, Mederma should applied, onion extract