How Strataderm works

Mechanisms of action for silicone

In common with other silicone products, the exact mode of action of Strataderm has not been proven. It is postulated that it works by the following methods:

Hydration

The silicone layer forms a semi-occlusive barrier which still allows the skin to breath. This leads to hydration under the Strataderm layer ensuring a softer and flatter scar as it matures. In isolation, hydration secondary to semi-occlusion does not fully explain why Strataderm is effective. A study in 2002 showed other semi-occlusive dressings that were compared with silicone dressings were not as effective at treating scars.¹ Thus concluding that silicone has additional properties to it’s semi-occlusiveness that makes it effective at treating scars.

Protection

Strataderm forms a protective layer that bonds to the stratum corneum. This layer is flexible, gas permeable and waterproof. Hence, Strataderm protects the scared site against invasion from pathogens as well as against chemical and physical insult. This protective environment allows the normalising of collagen modelling.

Modulation of basic fibroblastic growth factors (bFGF)

Although research shows no silicone gel or fluid to penetrate the epidermis², silicones and silicone gel sheets appear to have an influence on FGFs. Results of clinical investigation suggest that silicone gel is responsible for increased bFGF levels and prevents hypertrophic scar tissue, which contains histologically normal fibroblasts, by modulating expression of growth factors. Data supports the hypothesis that substances that favourably influence wound healing do so by correcting a deficiency or overabundance of the growth factors that orchestrate the tissue repair process.³

1. Alexandrina et al. Aesthetic Surgery Journal, March/April 2002;147
2. Gold MH. J Am Acad Dermatol 1994;30(3):506-507
3. Hanasono MM et al. Arch Facial Plast Surg 2004;6:88-93