Liquid bandage
Liquid bandage is a topical skin treatment for minor cuts and sores that is sold by several companies. The products are mixtures of chemicals which create a polymeric layer which binds to the skin. This protects the wound by keeping dirt and germs out, and keeping moisture in.[1]
Design
Liquid bandage is typically a polymer dissolved in a solvent (commonly water or an alcohol), sometimes with an added antiseptic, although the alcohol in some brands may serve the same purpose.[1] These products protect the wound by forming a thin film of polymer when the carrier evaporates.[1] Polymers used may include polyvinylpyrrolidone (water based), pyroxylin/nitrocellulose or poly(methylacrylate-isobutene-monoisopropylmaleate) (alcohol based), and acrylate or siloxane polymers (hexamethyldisiloxane or isooctane solvent based).[1] Other types of liquid bandages (more suited for use when the wound is actively bleeding), are based on cyanoacrylates. Although ethylcyanoacrylates are conventionally used in "superglue" adhesives, medical cyanoacrylates are based on octylcyanoacrylates, as they do not break down in the body to toxic byproducts, as ethylcyanoacrylates do.[1] Research is underway into acrylate copolymer based products, as there is less chance of gluing body parts together accidentally.[1]
In addition to their use in replacing conventional bandages in minor cuts and scrapes, they have found use in surgical and veterinary offices, as they cause less trauma, and do not have to be removed like sutures (stitches) and staples do.[1] Liquid bandages are increasingly finding use in the field of combat, where they can be used to rapidly stanch a wound until proper medical attention can be obtained.[1] Liquid bandage has also been used to treat skin tags.[2]
Brands
Nexcare brand liquid bandage contains hexamethyldisiloxane, isooctane, acrylate terpolymer, and polyphenylmethylsiloxane.[3]
The primary ingredient of some brands, including the Band-Aid brand, is a form of cyanoacrylate, better known as "super glue".
MedTech's NewSkin liquid bandage is made of an alcoholic pyroxylin solution, with 8-hydroxyquinoline as an antiseptic.[4]
Recent developments
A novel type of liquid bandage would incorporate amino acids to form peptide links directly with the skin.[5] This product has potential to reduce bleeding during and after surgery.
References
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- Band-Aid brand SINGLE STEP Liquid Bandage
- New-Skin brand liquid bandage
- Nexcare™ No Sting Liquid Bandage Spray
