Who doesn’t want clear, glowing skin? In fact, the entire $374 billion makeup and skin care industry often centers its marketing efforts around one primary goal: helping consumers achieve clear skin.

However, this goal is often hindered by obstacles such as acne, pores, and wrinkles. To combat these issues, social media is full of tips, tricks, hacks, and products that promise to help you achieve your skin care goals (though keeping track of them all is no easy feat).

The latest trend causing a stir on social media is silicone patches – an old dermatologist-recommended product that is now being praised for its ‘potential benefits’.

Silicone Patch: Viral Product

According to social media, the benefits of silicone patches include:

• reduce the appearance of scars
• hydrating the skin
• reduce wrinkles
• Improve skin texture
• boost collagen production

These benefits have made silicone patches or tapes a viral sensation and ‘it product’, thanks to their ease of availability, affordability and of course, their one-product-fix-all approach to skin care problems. Reason. Plus, as this trend grows, it’s not just skinfluencers who are endorsing the product – online dermatologists are also giving their approval.

Today, due to this trend, silicone patches have reached India as well, with many people trying these age-old tapes to solve their skin problems. You can find them on any e-commerce website, like Amazon, Nykaa, etc.

Now, if you’re thinking of adding this to your nightly skin care routine, wait. We spoke to various experts and scroll down to read what we found.

What exactly are these patches?

Dr Srishti, aesthetic physician and founder of Aviv Aesthetics, Delhi, explains that it was initially developed to heal surgical scars and wounds. India Today Silicone tapes act as occlusive dressings on the skin.

These tapes work to retain moisture, which in turn promotes collagen production, which can help address various skin care concerns.

Mumbai-based dermatologist Dr Aparna Santhanam agrees and says that these tapes are medical-grade adhesive strips made primarily of silicone.

“These are thin, flexible and designed to be applied directly to the skin. Originally developed for scar management after surgery and in cases of trauma, they improve the appearance of scars by hydrating the area, protecting from environmental factors, and supporting collagen remodeling,” she explains.

Experts also agree that nowadays, these patches are trending as a treatment for acne scars, hyperpigmentation, and even wrinkles, especially thanks to social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram.

Can it really help?

Experts say that if used properly, these tapes can potentially help you get clear skin, if not, they can cause side effects.

potential benefits

for acne

Silicone tapes can help reduce acne scars by providing hydration to the skin and improving collagen production.

According to Dr. Sonali Kohli, consultant dermatologist, Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital, Mumbai, silicone patches are similar to pimple patches. She advises that both should be used only for specific indications and under the guidance of a dermatologist, as inappropriate use for active acne may worsen the condition.

For anti-aging

Dr Rinki Kapoor, consultant dermatologist, cosmetic dermatologist and skin-surgeon at Aesthetic Clinic, Mumbai, explains that silicone tapes can reduce fine lines and wrinkles by improving the texture and smoothness of your skin; The reason behind this is collagen production.

“Over time, they encourage skin repair,” she adds.

“Silicone tape has some aesthetic value in helping people with fine lines or wrinkles. When applied to the face, the tape can help keep the skin well moisturized, which in turn helps plump up lines around the face,” says Dr. Kohli says.

But some experts warn that silicone patches come with side effects.

‘Can cause allergies’

For experts like Dr. Kapoor, the use of silicone tapes is considered safe, but they can cause various side effects for some. Dr Srishti agrees, and lists some side effects:

sensitivity reactions

In sensitive skin, prolonged application may cause mild redness, itching or some other mild irritation.

acne

Experts suggest that reports of acne as a side effect are rare but are related to continued use of the tape.

adverse reactions

Silicone tapes can cause allergies to the adhesive or silicone ingredients, which can happen but is very unlikely.

limited study

Dr. Kohli further adds that silicone has long been a gold standard in scar management, with numerous studies confirming its efficacy.

However, for acne and anti-aging, the evidence is less strong and often anecdotal. She recommends using it as a complementary remedy rather than a stand-alone treatment.

Correct way to use silicone patches

You can avoid the side effects (mentioned above) of silicone patches by using them correctly. Here’s how to do so:

• Clean and dry skin thoroughly

Begin by washing the skin with a mild cleanser to remove any dirt, oil, or residue that may affect adhesion. Dry the area completely with a clean towel, as moisture can prevent the tape from sticking properly.

• Cut the tape to appropriate size

Measure the required length of tape according to the area of ​​application. Use scissors to cut the tape to the appropriate size, making sure there is no excess or slack. If necessary, round the corners to prevent chipping.

• apply without tension

Place the tape gently over the target area, making sure there is no pull or tension as you apply it. Applying the tape with tension may cause discomfort or reduce effectiveness. Smooth it evenly to ensure proper adhesion and avoid wrinkles or air bubbles.

• Maintain application for 12-24 hours

Leave the tape in place for the recommended period of time, which is usually between 12 to 24 hours. Make sure the tape remains secure but check occasionally for signs of irritation or loosening.

• Change daily or as recommended

Carefully remove the tape when the application period is over. If necessary, replace it with a new piece of tape daily, or follow specific instructions or product guidelines provided by a health care professional.

Patch testing, always!

For medical-grade silicone tape, always do a patch test before applying to a large area of ​​the face. Remember to apply the tape very carefully so as not to tear the skin underneath.