1. Silicone is sterile, thanks to exceptional chemical resistance and high heat tolerance.

2. Low toxicity, thanks to human biocompatibility.

3. Pliable and soft, great for prolonged contact with delicate internal tissues and skin.

4. Very safe, often tested for use inside the body (e.g. menstrual cup, implants).

5. Maintains shape, even in hot and cold climate.

Medical grade silicone can be used as a material with antibacterial properties, since it has been able to keep its PDADMAC compound attached to its structure, thus acquiring its antimicrobial property. Antimicrobial surfaces can suppress the growth and spread of microorganisms and limit the transmission of harmful microbes. Microorganisms include bacteria, viruses, protozoans, and fungi such as mold and mildew. This helps reduce human exposure to various bacteria and viruses and lowers the risk for a Healthcare Associated Infection.

Antimicrobial vs. Antibacterial:Is Antibacterial or Antimicrobial Better? Antibacterial products prevent bacteria like E. coli and MRSA from forming, or it will destroy the germs that are already there. Antimicrobial products, on the other hand, prevent and destroy not only bacteria, but also fungi, parasites, algae, dust-mites, and certain viruses.

Why does silicone have antimicrobial effects? The antibacterial effect of silicone nanoparticles in Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria has been demonstrated in multiple studies. The bacterial inactivation was apparently caused by the photodynamic activity of the silicone nanoparticles, which in turn is due to the generation of a singlet oxygen on their surface.

Oia patches, when attached to the skin, form a microclimate between the patch and the skin, ultimately creating an occlusion effect on your skin. The occlusion effect minimizes water loss from your skin. Moisture in your skin helps the skin’s outermost layer to build a barrier against any potential harmful effects to your skin. The occlusion effect increases hydration to this outer layer, ultimately reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. 

By increasing the skin’s surface temperature and increasing blood flow, occlusion also helps your skin to look and feel more healthy!

Oia’s development team produces our wrinkle patches in the same manufacturing environment as medical scar healing patches. These patches are designed to be worn safely on skin for long periods of time. They contain no toxins and are nonporous, resisting bacterial growth.