Silver as an antiseptic

Throughout history silver has been used for treating various diseases and infections, to disinfect water and food, as well as treat burns and wounds. Today, silver-containing products are well established antiseptics.

Silver acts as an antiseptic because its ions are active and can penetrate bacterial membranes. By interacting with bacterial enzymes and proteins, silver can break down bacteria’s cell profile, causing cellular distortion, loss of viability and inhibit the process of bacterial replication.

The advantages of silver

In comparison to other antiseptics, silver has its advantage in being effective on a broad range of germs even in small concentrations and over a long period of time.

The main advantages at a glance:

  • well-established efficacy
  • proven broad-spectrum antiseptic effect
  • pro-healing as well as odour prevention effect
  • grants excellent skin compatibility
  • skin friendliness

Causes for infection

Even minor everyday wounds can be infected. Several factors influence wound healing and infection rates. Among them are type and amount of bacteria as well as type and location of the wound. Other important factors are increasing age, underlying diseases e.g. reduced vascular supply and diabetes mellitus, or drug treatments e.g. steroids.

How silver prevents infection

The objective of traditional wound care with standard plasters is to cover and protect the wound and absorb excess exudates. Hansaplast med products with Silver Technology contain antiseptic effective silver which is released as soon as the metalline silver ions come into contact with the wound. As silver ions eliminate bacteria that cause infections, using the Silver Technology will help to reduce the risk of infections.
Always see a doctor if the wound is deep, bleeds heavily or shows signs of infection like reddening, swelling or warmth. Please note that, although they were compiled with great care, the tips and advice given on this website by no means substitute medical advice and treatment. If you have or suspect a health problem, consult a doctor and follow medical advice, regardless of what you have learned on this website. Always read carefully and follow the instructions for use or the leaflets of our products.
For further information, please contact us via email at Hansaplast@Beiersdorf.com