What Are The Benefits of Silicone Gel Adhesives on Skin?
One of the most intriguing trends in science is how materials are so widely used. For over 30 years, silicone gel adhesives have been used in some of the most advanced wound therapies. For example, Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT) uses silicone gel adhesives to treat acute wounds, burns and diabetic ulcers. Silicone gel adhesives are also used to treat simple cuts and burns. There are many over-the-counter scar treatments now marketed as silicone gel adhesive sheets and rolls.
While discovering the benefits of a material is intriguing, learning the ideal formula for a specific application provides manufacturers insight. Polymer Science has worked for decades researching, designing and customizing solutions for silicone gel adhesives. Our team continues to facilitate companies in need of adhesives for medical devices, bandages and other skin contact adhesives.
The Benefits of Silicone Gel Adhesives
There are a few primary benefits of silicone gel adhesives. Most notably, these polymers are inorganic, flexible and durable. Silicone gel adhesives resist biological growth and outside contamination of open wounds. The flexibility of the material means silicone gel adhesives form to the curvatures and irregularities of skin. The durability protects skin by resisting chemicals and water. This quality adds to longer wear times when necessary.
Silicone gel adhesives are obviously biocompatible for skin contact but as a wound covering, this material is especially effective. Generally, silicone gel adhesives are noted for atraumatic and residue-free removal. The adhesive can be formulated with very light adhesion when repositioning is beneficial and very strong adhesion when a strong, long-lasting bond is required. The final primary benefit for skin contact applications is water vapor and gas permeability. Silicone gel adhesives promote healing both by resisting exterior contamination and controlling excess moisture.
What Are Some of the Applications of Silicone Gel Adhesives?
Applications are as simple as medical tapes to secure bandages, devices, dressings and tubing to skin. Polymer Science silicone gel adhesives feature excellent adhesion to securely anchor tape. Gel adhesives are very effective for IV securement and catheter management. Atraumatic removal improves patient comfort while preserving a secure bond.
As wearable medical devices become more common to treat and monitor personalized medicine, silicone gel adhesives are used in active and passive wearable devices. For delicate skin, silicone gel adhesives are effectively gentle on the skin for ostomy flanges, incontinence gaskets and fixation of dressings.
Advanced wound care like moist wound dressings and the aforementioned negative pressure wound therapy uses silicone gel adhesives. Silicone gel adhesives relieve discomfort and improve scar treatment from superficial wounds and deep wounds.
How Polymer Science Works with Manufacturers to Implement Silicone Gel Adhesives
Many manufacturers seeking medical grade adhesives contact Polymer Science through our data sheets. Within our main catalog, we provide data on single coated silicone gel adhesives, as well as bilaminates and trilaminates. We understand many manufacturers require specific solutions and need a partner who can facilitate their needs. We work with manufacturers throughout our process to identify the best applications, carriers, adhesives, perforations and other options to suit your needs. Polymer Science manufactures P-DERM® silicone gel adhesives in the USA which helps manufacturers seeking nimble and effective solutions.