Effect of UV Stabilizers on Color Stability of Maxillofacial Silicone Elastomers

Maxillofacial silicone elastomers are being extensively used for the fabrication of artificial external body parts such as ears, nose and eyes. Some of their properties of clinical advantage are their inertness, softness, flexibility and ability to be coloured artistically. However the most common problem associated with their use is the degradation of their colour and physical properties over time. These changes are mainly attributed to their exposure to Ultra-violet radiation, humidity, cleansing agents, body fluids, adhesives and sometimes, cosmetics. Silicone prostheses therefore need to be re-made periodically. It is, therefore important to enhance the life of silicone prostheses by preventing/minimising their degradation. This can be achieved by stabilization of the elastomers. This study evaluates the effect of different UV absorbers on the color change of silicone elastomers. Keywords: Color, maxillofacial prosthesis, UV absorbers