I went through 4 wrist surgeries and was dealing with the emotional toll of the surgeries, as well as the scars that were left on both of my wrists…a constant reminder. One of my co-workers suggested Epi-Derm Strips by Biodermis as she had used them for her c-section and said they worked great! I went straight to biodermis.com and ordered them and I’ve been a user ever since! I was amazed how quickly they worked and literally couldn’t be happier in finding Epi-Derm Strips. They are a premium product but are well worth it as they really work!
Molly
Phoenix, AZ
The difference is that Epi-Derm Clear is fully transparent, with release liners on both sides. It is tacky on one side only. Epi-Derm Natural is beige in color with a soft fabric backing that tends to do well under clothing - letting fabric slide over it without bunching. Both varieties are made of 100% medical grade silicone.
Unlike many other scar products, Epi-Derm is self-adhesive, but you may need to apply Epi-Tape or Epi-Net on certain areas of the body for extra securement.
With any 100% medical-grade silicone therapy, best results are achieved with uninterrupted, continuous use. Epi-Derm sheets can be worn for up to 12 hours at a time, washed (with a non-foaming, fragrance free cleanser like Silqueclenz), and re-used. Epi-Derm is suitable for day and nighttime use. With proper cleaning and average wear-and-tear, each Epi-Derm sheet can last 2-3 weeks.
Unlike many over the counter scar reduction products, Epi-Derm, Pro-Sil and Xeragel are made of medical grade silicone. Because of the quality and high standards of all Biodermis family of products, it is sold directly to hospitals, burn centers, plastic surgeons, dermatologists and other specialists.
Epi-Derm is effective on all types of scars, including older scars. Clinical studies have shown the newer the scar, the quicker the results, so with older scars -- products just need to be used for a longer period of time.
During the day, especially in exposed areas, the most discreet option is often preferred. For those situations, an on-the-go silicone product like Pro-Sil or a gel like Episof is recommended. For 24 hour a day usage, many patients prefer Epi-Derm scar silicone sheets at night when they are at home or sleeping, because a single sheet will last all night, and then Pro-Sil during the day. Silqueclenz by Biodermis is the ideal cleanser formulation for cleaning silicone sheeting between uses. Lastly, Epi-net or Epi-tape are sometimes required to keep silicone secured in areas that tend to actively bend throughout the day - such as a knee or ankle.
Ideal scar management results in a minimizing of the height, thickness and/or discoloration of the scar, thus helping flatten, smooth and blend the scar with the surrounding skin, making it far less noticeable.
Instances of skin irritation with silicone are rare. However, as with any topical device applied directly to the skin, it is possible. If any skin redness or irritation occurs, speak with your doctor to understand the root cause.
Yes. Each product has received U.S. FDA clearance and European C.E. mark and is comprised of safe, non-toxic, non-medicated, semi-occlusive silicone gel.
Yes, Epi-Derm scar silicone sheets may be cut into smaller pieces using clean scissors or a knife. The piece of gel sheeting should fully cover the scar and extend 1/4 inch all the way around the scar border.
Biodermis is the originator of silicone sheeting in the industry and the first to introduce a variety of configurations and thicknesses, while maintaining the highest quality and regulatory standard.
Nothing should be used underneath Epi-Derm gel sheeting (between the gel sheeting and your scar). Of course, Pro-Sil and Episof are frequently used during the day on exposed scars (face, hands, elbows, etc).
Biodermis recommends that you store it in its original packaging at room temperature.
Epi-Derm can be applied after the sutures have been removed, and the scab is no longer present.
Yes, it is safe and non-toxic and can be used on children.
Always apply the sticky side of the silicone sheets to the scar.
Yes, it is recommended to remove silicone sheeting for scars when you shower, workout or swim due to the excessive moisture. However, it does not harm the product or your scar.
Yes, Epi-Derm silicone strips work great on facial scars. Frequently, patients choose to use Pro-Sil or Episof on facial scars during the day because these products are less noticeable, then use Epi-Derm scar silicone sheets at night.
Once gel sheeting has been applied to the scar site, it can be used for 2-3 weeks. When it begins to lose its adhesive qualities, or when surface oils or skin cells become difficult to remove with proper daily washing, it is time to replace the sheet.
Unused product, whether opened, or unopened, will last for years when stored properly.
Keloids are the aftereffect of an overgrowth of dense fibrous tissue that usually develops after healing of a skin injury. When a scar is formed, connective tissues or fibers are formed at the site to hold the wound closed. Keloids form when the cells continue to multiply after the wound is filled in. Symptoms may include pigmentation of the skin, discomfort, or an itchy or painful sensation.
Scar treatment therapy options include silicone sheets for keloids, and pressure treatment. Keloids may often be prevented by using a pressure dressing like Epi-Net in conjunction with silicone scar strips over the injury site 24 hours each day. This treatment is most effective after healing of the wound or injury, usually within a month.
