Scar Formulas
The Scar Formula is a customized prescription blend that targets the main symptoms of scarring. This formulation may help encourage the improvement of old and new scar appearance. It is an odorless gel typically applied one to two times daily.
The Scar Formula combines prescription ingredients in a proprietary base developed specifically to deliver ingredients while moisturizing and softening the skin. It uses a unique delivery system designed to feel light, smooth and creamy with a pleasant finish on the skin. It is also not tacky or oily, leaving a light and silky feel on the skin. The Scar Formula is specifically made without fragrance or gluten.
Common Ingredients
Ceramides are essential lipids naturally produced in the body and make up nearly 50% of the outermost layer of skin. Ceramides help in creating a lipid barrier that helps boost skin resilience and prevents the skin from losing moisture. When the skin lacks ceramides, it can lead to dryness and irritation, contributing to skin sensitivity.
5-fluorouracil is a fluorinated pyrimidine analog that acts as an anti-metabolic agent, which inhibits fibroblast growth and decreases collagen synthesis resulting in scar degradation.
Glycolic acid can remove the top layer of skin cells with the need for physical debridement (i.e. scrubbing) and is often used to exfoliate skin and reduce the rough or raised appearance of a scar. Glycolic acid has shown to reduce the discoloration of acne scars as well.
Hyaluronic acid is naturally produced by the body and is found in high concentrations within the skin. Hyaluronic acid is essential for maintaining your skin's moisture balance and is responsible for your skin’s plumpness and volume. Hyaluronic acid has been shown to attract and retain water, making it an excellent hydrating ingredient. As we age, hyaluronic acid levels decline, which is why it’s important to supplement products that contain this ingredient.
Niacinamide, also known as vitamin B3, plays an important role in soothing and helping to restore the skin barrier. Niacinamide has become a popular ingredient in formulations for acne, eczema, rosacea, and skin discoloration. When applied topically, niacinamide may help strengthen the skin's moisture barrier, which may help reduce the visible effects of skin damage.
Petrolatum is a popular ingredient often found in over-the-counter lotions and creams for adults and children. It has long been considered one of the most effective moisturizing ingredients and is often referred to as the “gold standard” of occlusive ingredients because it creates a physical barrier that prevents moisture from leaving the skin.
Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid that helps promote the skin’s natural exfoliation process. Salicylic acid has long been used to target various concerns, including rough and bumpy skin, clogged pores, and skin conditions like psoriasis. Salicylic acid supports the natural shedding of dead cells, which may help slough away dull or rough skin. It is important to apply daily sun protection, especially when including salicylic acid is added to your routine due to its exfoliating effects.
Silicone gel heals scars by increasing hydration of the stratum corneum (the uppermost layer of the skin). This facilitates the regulation of fibroblast production and also reduces collagen production.
Tretinoin, a derivative of vitamin A, has been shown to help promote your skin’s natural exfoliation process. This exfoliation process encourages the shedding of dead skin cells, which may lead to improvement in the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, texture, and uneven tone.
Triamcinolone is in a class of medications called mid-potency corticosteroids. This medication is used to treat a variety of skin conditions. Triamcinolone works by getting the body to stop its extreme immune response. When the immune system's reaction calms down, cell turnover slows, and the itchy, scaly rash improves.
Urea is a humectant, which means it is able to absorb moisture from the environment and draw it to the skin. In addition, urea is also an exfoliant that softens and smooths the skin by reducing the buildup of dead skin cells.
Vitamin C is not produced naturally by the body; however, research has shown it offers multiple benefits for the skin. Vitamin C has been shown to be a potent antioxidant that helps against free radicals, which can lead to dryness, rough surface texture, and signs of premature aging. Research has also shown that Vitamin C may help brighten the appearance of uneven skin tone.
Vitamin E research has shown it offers multiple benefits for your skin. Vitamin E has been shown to be a potent antioxidant that helps against free radicals, which can lead to dryness, rough surface texture, and signs of premature aging.
Frequently asked questions
One size doesn’t fit all and every patient is unique. Drug compounding is the process of combining, mixing, or altering ingredients to create a medication tailored to the needs of a patient by a pharmacist as the result of a practitioner’s prescription drug order. While compounded medications are not FDA-approved, they serve an important patient need—especially when FDA-approved medication is not available for treatment. Our formulations are made to order in small batches to ensure freshness. The specific ingredients in your compounded formula will depend on your specific concerns and goals. It should be understood that your personal healthcare practitioner will make the final decision.
Yes! All of our compounded formulations, regardless of ingredients, are eligible for Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Saving Accounts (HSA).
A keloid scar is a thick raised scar that can occur when you injure yourself. Keloid scars are commonly found on shoulders, cheeks, earlobes and chest. A keloid scar isn't typically harmful; however, these types of scars may cause emotional distress due its size color, and thickness.
Acne scars are the result of inflammation of acne blemishes. Some acne scars are shallow and may heal quickly; however, some may become deeper and more apparent.
Stretch marks are indented streaks that commonly appear on the abdomen, hips, buttocks and breasts. The appearance of stretch marks vary depending on their age, what caused them, and where they are located on your body. Common variations include: indented streaks/lines, pink, red or purple streaks, light colored streaks or streaks cover large areas of your body. Anyone can develop stretch marks, but some factors that increase your chances of developing them include, but are not limited to; being pregnant, rapid growth of muscle, and/or rapid gain or lose of weight.
Based on research and patient testimonials, you may see improvement as early as 2 months for new scars and up to 6 months for older scars; however, each patient is unique and time frames may differ.
The Scar Formula is for topical use only. If this medicine gets in your eyes or mouth, rinse with water. Do not apply this medication to your eyelids.
Follow all directions on your prescription label. Using this medicine in larger amounts or applying it more often than prescribed will not make it work any faster, and it may increase side effects such as irritation, inflammation and darkening of skin.
Wash your hands with soap and water before and after applying the medicine. Do not allow other people to get this medicine on their skin. If this happens, wash the area thoroughly with soap and water.
Apply a thin layer to cover the affected area(s) one to two times daily or as directed.
Do not cover treated skin with a bandage. Bandaging can increase the amount of drug absorbed through your skin and may cause harmful effects.
Wait until stiches have been removed before applying. Do not apply to open wounds or other skin infections.
The Scar Formula should be used as part of a complete skin care program that includes avoiding sunlight, using an effective mineral based broad-spectrum sunscreen daily, and wearing protective clothing.
Do not start using the Scar Formula if you have a history of hypersensitivity to the prescribed ingredients. The prescribed ingredients may include, but are not limited to; urea, salicylic acid, tretinoin, triamcinolone, silicone, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, petrolatum, vitamin C and/or vitamin E. Do not use this medicine if you are pregnant or breast-feeding a baby.
Apply the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not apply two doses at one time.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C).
Research has shown, topically applied medications are less likely to cause the same systemic side effects or drug-to-drug interactions as oral medications; however, there is never an absolute zero chance that side effects or drug interactions will not occur. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
What should I avoid while using the Scar Formula?
Avoid exposure to sunlight or tanning beds. The Scar Formula can make you sunburn more easily. Wear protective clothing and use sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) when you are outdoors.
Your skin may be more sensitive to weather extremes such as cold and wind. Protect your skin with clothing and use a moisturizing cream or lotion as needed.
Avoid using other products that may contain the prescribed ingredients.
Avoid using skin products that can cause irritation, such as harsh soaps, shampoos, or skin cleansers, hair coloring or permanent chemicals, hair removers or waxes, or skin products with alcohol, spices, astringents, or lime.
Do not use this medicine if you are pregnant or breast-feeding a baby.
What are the common side effects of the Scar Formula?
Common side effects may include application site reactions of:
Skin reactions (dermatitis)
Burning, stinging or warmth
Itching or tingling
Redness, dryness or peeling
Serious, but less common side effects include that should prompt discontinuation:
Cracking
Bleeding
Blisters
Oozing
Changes of color of treated skin (blue or black discoloration of the skin)
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives, severe itching; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. These are not all of the possible side effects of the Scar Formula. For more information, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effects that bother you or do not go away.
What happens if I overdose?
An overdose is not expected to be dangerous. Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if anyone has accidentally swallowed the medication. High doses or long-term use of steroid medicine can lead to thinning skin, easy bruising, changes in body fat (especially in your face, neck, back, and waist), increased acne or facial hair, menstrual problems, impotence, or loss of interest in sex.
Kang S, Kim KJ, Griffiths CE, Wong TY, Talwar HS, Fisher GJ, Gordon D, Hamilton TA, Ellis CN, Voorhees JJ. Topical tretinoin (retinoic acid) improves early stretch marks. Arch Dermatol. 1996 May;132(5):519-26. PMID: 8624148.
Kwon SY, Park SD, Park K. Comparative effect of topical silicone gel and topical tretinoin cream for the prevention of hypertrophic scar and keloid formation and the improvement of scars. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2014 Aug;28(8):1025-33. doi: 10.1111/jdv.12242. Epub 2013 Aug 19. PMID: 23952739.
Palmieri B, Gozzi G, Palmieri G. Vitamin E added silicone gel sheets for treatment of hypertrophic scars and keloids. Int J Dermatol. 1995 Jul;34(7):506-9. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-4362.1995.tb00628.x. PMID: 7591421.
O'Brien L, Jones DJ. Silicone gel sheeting for preventing and treating hypertrophic and keloid scars. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2013 Sep 12;2013(9):CD003826. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD003826.pub3. PMID: 24030657; PMCID: PMC7156908.
Taheri A, Moradi Tuchayi S, Alinia H, Orscheln CS, Mansoori P, Feldman SR. Topical clobetasol in conjunction with topical tretinoin is effective in preventing scar formation after superficial partial-thickness burn ulcers of the skin: A retrospective study. J Dermatolog Treat. 2015;26(4):361-4. doi: 10.3109/09546634.2014.991677. Epub 2014 Dec 29. PMID: 25424054.
Gehring W. Nicotinic acid/niacinamide and the skin. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2004 Apr;3(2):88-93. doi: 10.1111/j.1473-2130.2004.00115.x. PMID: 17147561.
All prescription medications require a valid and complete online consultation prior to approval and final pricing is determined. All compounded medications in the U.S. are considered off-label use. Licensed healthcare practitioners have the ability to prescribe compounds for off-label treatment, if they believe that it is an appropriate course of treatment.
The drug and medical information provided on this website is not meant to cover all adverse effects, drug interactions, warnings, medical uses, directions and precautions. The information provided is a medical resource and the judgment of your physician and/or healthcare practitioner should not be substituted. Premier Pharmacy has made every effort to ensure the information on the website is accurate and current based on present medical literature.
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If you have questions or concerns about your medications, please do not hesitate to contact us and/or your medical practitioner, including your pharmacist. Compound prescription products have not been tested or approved by the FDA for their intended use. No claims are made as to the safety, efficacy or use of this compound.