Color stability of facial prostheses

The limited service of facial prostheses is the result of degradation of the elastomer and color instability. Deterioration may be caused by many factors, which include environmental exposure and changes in humidity. This investigation assessed the efficacy of an additive, intrinsic, broad-spectrum ultraviolet light absorber on the color stability of a pigmented facial elastomer. Samples were weathered artificially and outdoors at exposure levels of radiant energy of 150 to 450 kJ/m2. The samples changed color slightly but perceptibly. Artificial aging caused a greater change than outdoor aging. The ultraviolet light absorber UV-5411 did not protect the samples from color changes.