Evidence supporting the use of: Silver
For the health condition: Abrasions

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4

Silver, particularly in the form of silver sulfadiazine and silver-impregnated dressings, is scientifically validated for use in supporting the healing of abrasions and other skin wounds. The antimicrobial properties of silver ions are well-documented; they disrupt bacterial cell walls, inhibit DNA replication, and inactivate vital cellular enzymes. This broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity helps prevent infection in wounds, which is a primary concern with abrasions. Numerous clinical studies and reviews have demonstrated the efficacy of silver-containing dressings in reducing bacterial colonization and lowering the risk of infection in acute wounds, including abrasions, burns, and ulcers.

While silver sulfadiazine has been the standard for burns and some wounds, newer silver-containing dressings (such as hydrofiber dressings with ionic silver) are increasingly used for abrasions due to their ease of application and sustained release of silver ions. However, some studies suggest that while silver dressings are effective at infection control, their direct impact on accelerating wound healing remains less clear and may depend on the specific product and wound type. Nonetheless, major clinical guidelines and wound care protocols do support the use of silver-based dressings in managing contaminated or high-risk abrasions, especially where infection prevention is critical.

Importantly, silver is not typically recommended for use on clean, minor abrasions in healthy individuals, but is reserved for cases at higher risk for infection. Overall, the scientific evidence supporting silver for this indication is strong, particularly for infection control.

More about Silver
More about Abrasions

Products containing Silver

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.