Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why would I use a bandage with a silver wound pad instead of a regular bandage?
The use of silver has one big advantage: it reduces the risk of infection from the very beginning. Wound infections are the major cause of wound healing disturbances. And wound infections are not rare – up to 50% of acute wounds become infected! With a silver wound pad, you do the very best to prevent infection from occurring.
2. Is there proof that silver works?
Yes, there is. Silver has been used in hospitals for years.
Many clinical studies demonstrate the benefits of silver.
3. What kind of germs does silver kill?
Silver is a clinically proven, broad spectrum antimicrobial agent.
It kills nearly all relevant bacteria and fungi.
4. Is Elastoplast with silver technology safe to use on children?
Yes, it is. Unlike many other antiseptics, silver is very skin-friendly. Resistance to silver is extremely rare.
5. I have diabetes, can I use Elastoplast with silver technology?
Actually, Elastoplast Antibacterial Fabric bandages with silver technology might be especially beneficial for you!
Diabetics are more often affected by wound healing problems. Wounds take longer to heal and have a higher risk of infection. Silver as an effective and clinically established antiseptic ingredient reduces the risk of infection from the very beginning. For optimal wound healing, we highly recommend Elastoplast bandages with silver technology. The bandages contain antiseptic silver that is released as soon as the silver ions come into contact with the wound fluid. Furthermore, all Elastoplast bandages with silver technology grant excellent skin compatibility.
6. What is silver allergy?
Silver's allergenic potential is very low. There are only a few recorded cases of alergic reactions to silver. Mostly people who have been in constant contact with high concentrations of silver, for example silversmiths or silver miners, were affected. Most people who believe they have a silver allergy actually have an allergic reaction to nickel, because silver used for jewelry often contains nickel. Standardized testing confirmed that the Elastoplast antibacterial line which uses the silver technology is skin-friendly.
7. Is it necessary to use antiseptics/creams/ointments in combination with Elastoplast antibacterial products?
No, it is not. Elastoplast antibacterial bandages contain antiseptic effective silver that is released as soon as the silver ions come into contact with the wound fluid. Therefore, pre-treatment of wounds is not necessary. Using ointments and creams may actually decrease antimicrobial activity.
8. How often should I change my bandage?
Usually, it is recommended to change dressings daily due to hygienic reasons. Some advanced bandages such as the Elastoplast Fast Healing™ bandage that provide moist wound healing conditions are recommended to be left in place for two days or more in order not to interrupt the healing process.
9. Is it better to keep small wounds uncovered?
No. It is a wound care myth that keeping minor cuts and grazes uncovered helps them heal faster. The contrary is true. Research shows that covered wounds heal more efficiently and have a reduced risk of infection. Elastoplast products provide safe protection until the wound is completely healed.
