Mepiform® is a type of dressing which can be used to reduce the appearance of a scar. This product is manufactured by Mölnlycke Health Care in several different sizes which can be obtained through medical suppliers, hospitals, and some pharmacies. In addition to being useful for the management of existing scars, Mepiform® can also sometimes be utilized prophylactically to reduce scar formation.
This product consists of a thin, flexible sheet which is impregnated with silicone. Silicone has been used in scar management since the 1980s, and it appears to work by hydrating scars so that they soften and flatten over time. Mepiform® is designed to make the process as easy as possible so that patients can easily care for their own scars. The product is also specifically designed to avoid pulling at or damaging the skin.
A Mepiform® bandage is self-adhesive. To use the bandage, people cut it to the appropriate size and shape, if necessary, before peeling off the release form and gently pressing the Mepiform® against the scar. The bandage is self adhesive and water resistant, and should stay on the skin even during showering. The Mepiform® should be removed once a day to clean the scar, but otherwise left on throughout the day.
Over the course of three to seven days of use, depending on the patient, the Mepiform® will gradually lose its self adhesive properties, in which case a new bandage will need to be applied. Bandage changes are also recommended if the bandage appears soiled. While Mepiform® is supposed to be hypoallergenic and not damaging to the skin, use should be discontinued if a rash or other problems develop.
It can take a long time for this silicone dressing to start to work. It may take three months or more to notice changes in a scar, and it can take longer than a year for the full effects of the Mepiform® to be felt. It's important to use the bandages consistently and regularly, and people should take care to ensure that they have an ample supply of the bandages on hand to meet their needs.
This noninvasive treatment for scars may be recommended by a doctor or physical therapist to a patient with scars or keloids which might benefit from Mepiform®. In other cases, it may be necessary to pursue more invasive and aggressive scar management options such as surgical treatment to address contractures caused by scarring.
By Mary McMahon
Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a All The Science researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.