Silicone - it is a versatile synthetic organosilicon polymer. Silicone consists of a silicon-oxygen (Si-O) bond. Attached to the inorganic silicon atoms in the chain are organic groups such as alkyl and aryl groups. The first work on this polymer was carried out by the British chemist Frederic Kipping. What is the composition, action and application of silicone?

Properties of silicone

Silicone has unique properties such as biocompatibility and durability, thanks to which it can be used in medicine and pharmacy. In addition, silicone is characterized by amazing resistance, especially thermal.

Can maintain its properties in a very wide temperature range, from -100 ° C to 300 ° C.

In Poland, silicone is used for the production of plasters and wound dressings, as well as for the production ofmedical products needed in hospitals or clinics . The vast majority of hoses connected to, among others,drip infusionsis made of this polymer.

Silicone composition

The main ingredient of silicone scar patches: (Advasil, Sutricon®, Codosil ADHESIVE, Silon-SES®, Oleeva Clear) is silicone gel and auxiliary substances such as polyurethane membrane or other ingredients depending on the manufacturer's choice.

Silicone is an important component of: contact lenses, aesthetic implants, dressings, valves and catheters.

The action of silicone

Silicone in dressings creates a thin, invisible protective film on the skin surface, which is resistant to washing with water. The action of silicones is to protect the skin against the influence of external factors. Silicone increases the water content in the stratum corneum of the skin and contributes to the inhibition of water loss in the processes of physiological evaporation (occlusion).

This polymer is effective against fresh and old scars. In fresh scars, it stabilizes the process of the formation of collagen fibers and reduces the risk of pathological scars. In older scars, it stimulates tissue regeneration and reduces the visibility of the scar.

In addition, silicone is characterized by high flexibility, durability, thermal and chemical resistance, has high gas and many drug permeability, which is beneficial in the treatment of wounds ortransdermal drug delivery.

Application of silicone

Silicone has been used in medicine for the production of, among others :

  • scar dressings,
  • contact lenses,
  • aesthetic implants (breasts, cheeks, buttocks),
  • implants (brain, heart),
  • orthopedic insoles,
  • medical cables.

Indications for the use of silicone dressings

It is recommended to use silicone dressings for healed fresh and old wounds, for hypertrophic scars, for caesarean section scars, for surgical procedures and for the production of medical equipment.

Contraindications to the use of silicone

Do not use silicone products if you are allergic to silicone, open wounds, dermatological diseases, oozing wounds, burns or mucous membranes.

How to use silicone dressings?

Silicone dressings should be used as described in the patient information leaflet or according to specific guidelines and recommendations of a doctor or pharmacist. Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure. The wearing time of the dressing is different for each patient. It depends on the properties of the scar and hygiene.

Silicone - precautions

Particular care should be taken in the case of unhealed open wounds, because the structure of silicone may possibly affect the ability to overcome cell barriers, including the stratum corneum of the skin, has the ability to be absorbed into the body, migrate in a living organism, accumulate, and biodegrade and toxicity. This applies in particular to low molecular weight silicones.

Silicone - side effects

Silicone may cause swelling, itching or a rash. In addition, it can give off an unpleasant odor through the skin.

Silikon - interactions with other drugs and diseases

In order to avoid undesirable ailments, inform the doctor or pharmacist about all drugs currently or recently used, as well as about drugs that the patient is going to use. You should also inform your doctor about your current he alth condition, about any diseases or additional conditions you are struggling with.

Silicone and pregnancy and breastfeeding

Before using the silicone product, inform your doctor about pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Silicone - storage

Silicone should be stored in a suitable place that is invisible and inaccessible to children. Store in a dry place, preferably at a temperature15 ° C to 25 ° C, in its original packaging. Patches should not be used after the expiry date stated on the package. The expiry date refers to the last day of that month.

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