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SYLKE Adhesive Wound Closure

FDA Class I sterile silk fibroin mesh with long-lasting pressure-sensitive adhesive. Water-resistant for 14 days. Zero cyanoacrylates. Used by 600K+ patients globally.

600K+
Patients Treated
5
Peer-Reviewed Studies
3
Awards & Recognition
Class I
FDA Device Classification
What is SYLKE?

Advanced Silk Fibroin Wound Closure

SYLKE is a single-use, sterile woven silk fibroin mesh coated with long-lasting pressure-sensitive adhesive. Designed to support wound closure with zero cyanoacrylates and water-resistant 14-day wear time.

SYLKE packaging and product

The SYLKE Difference

SYLKE combines the biocompatibility of natural silk fibroin sourced from silkworms with innovative adhesive technology. Unlike synthetic alternatives, silk fibroin is naturally hypoallergenic and supports optimal wound healing.

  • Woven silk fibroin mesh from Bombyx mori silkworms
  • Long-lasting pressure-sensitive adhesive
  • Zero cyanoacrylates — no drying time required
  • Water-resistant for full 14-day wear time
  • Offloads tension away from surgical incisions
  • Can be used alone or with sutures
  • Applicable by patients or healthcare professionals
  • ISO 13485:2016 certified and MDSAP-audited
  • Ethylene oxide gas sterilized, single-use
Mechanism of Action

How SYLKE Works

SYLKE woven silk mesh close-up showing natural fiber structure

Woven Silk Fibroin Mesh

The foundation of SYLKE is a finely woven silk fibroin fabric made from natural silkworm proteins. Sourced from Cradle to Cradle™ certified silkworm farming in India, the silk is woven in Italy and then laminated in New Hampshire before final assembly in Southern California. This natural biocompatible mesh provides structural support while remaining gentle on sensitive skin.

SYLKE pressure-sensitive adhesive coated mesh with application

Pressure-Sensitive Adhesive

SYLKE's adhesive layer bonds securely to skin without requiring any drying time. Unlike cyanoacrylate-based alternatives that create exothermic reactions and rigid bonds, SYLKE's formulation remains flexible, allowing the skin to breathe and move naturally. The adhesive maintains its strength throughout the full 14-day wear period, even with exposure to water and moisture.

SYLKE applied to surgical incision showing tension offloading

Tension Offloading

By supporting the incision and distributing load away from the wound edges, SYLKE reduces stress on sutures and promotes optimal healing. This is particularly valuable in areas of high tension or motion. SYLKE can be used alone for simple wounds or layered with sutures for complex surgical closures, acting as additional reinforcement while sutures heal.

SYLKE application technique demonstrating proper placement

Water-Resistant, 14-Day Durability

SYLKE maintains its integrity and adhesive strength throughout a full 2-week wear period, even with exposure to shower water, sweat, and normal daily activities. This extended durability supports wounds through the critical early healing phases without frequent replacement, reducing patient burden and potential re-injury from repeated applications.

Available Sizes

SYLKE Product Lineup

Three optimized sizes for different wound types and anatomical locations

SYLKE 32cm

32cm × 2.5cm

Ideal for larger surgical wounds, abdominoplasty incisions, and extended lacerations requiring full-length closure support.

SKU:
SYL-WC-32-010
SYL-WC-32-050

SYLKE 24cm

24cm × 3.4cm

The optimal width for moderate-sized wounds, breast surgery incisions, and areas requiring maximum surface contact and tension distribution.

SKU:
SYL-WC-24-010

SYLKE 16cm

16cm × 2.5cm

Perfect for smaller wounds, facial lacerations, hand injuries, and trauma wounds where precise sizing is essential.

SKU:
SYL-WC-16-010

Free FedEx 2Day Shipping: All orders ship via FedEx 2Day at no additional cost to healthcare facilities and authorized retailers.

Proven Efficacy

Clinical Evidence

SYLKE is backed by 5 peer-reviewed studies demonstrating superior performance across multiple outcome measures

SYLKE vs Dermabond Prineo (Hypersensitivity Study)

Outcome SYLKE Dermabond Prineo
Allergic Contact Dermatitis 0% 52%
Study Type Randomized comparative study in wound closure patients
Key Finding SYLKE's silk fibroin formulation demonstrates significantly lower hypersensitivity risk than cyanoacrylate-based competitors

SYLKE vs Steri-Strips (Erythema Comparison)

Outcome SYLKE Steri-Strips
Erythema (Redness) 0% 20.8%
Study Design 50-patient randomized controlled trial (published in PRS)
Key Advantage SYLKE's water-resistant adhesive maintains integrity without causing tissue irritation, unlike tape-based alternatives that degrade and cause inflammation
Study References: 5 peer-reviewed publications including comparative efficacy studies, hypersensitivity analysis, and silk bioprotein wound dressing research. See Evidence page for full citations.
Sustainable Manufacturing

SYLKE Global Supply Chain

Cradle to Cradle™ certified silk sourcing with transparent, ethical manufacturing across four countries

India

Cradle to Cradle™ certified silkworm farming. Natural, sustainable silk fibroin harvest.

Italy

Master textile weavers craft the silk mesh to precise specifications.

New Hampshire

Precision lamination and adhesive coating in controlled manufacturing environment.

Southern California

Final assembly, sterilization by ethylene oxide, packaging, and distribution.

Cradle to Cradle™ Certified

Our silk fibroin sourcing meets the highest sustainability standards. The silkworm farming process uses mulberry trees that absorb carbon while producing the raw material for SYLKE, creating a closed-loop production model that benefits both human health and environmental regeneration.

Leadership

Founder & Vision

Dr. M. Mark Mofid, MD, FACS

Founder & Chief Medical Officer

Dr. Mofid is a practicing reconstructive and plastic surgeon with more than 20 years of clinical experience. Recognizing the limitations of existing wound closure options during his surgical practice, he designed SYLKE in 2020 during the COVID lockdown, combining his deep surgical knowledge with innovative biomaterial science.

Credentials & Experience

  • Clinical Assistant Professor of Plastic Surgery, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
  • Harvard University graduate (magna cum laude)
  • MD, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
  • Diplomate, American Board of Plastic Surgery
  • Diplomate, American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
  • Fellow, American College of Surgeons (FACS)
  • Former Associate Professor of Plastic Surgery, UC San Diego (10+ years)
  • Presenter of research at 40+ national and international medical conferences

Co-Founder

Sheva Mokarram, JD — Emmy-nominated producer and medtech entrepreneur. Sheva brings both creative vision and operational expertise to SYLKE's commercial growth and market development.

SYLKE Timeline

  • 2020: Idea conceived during COVID lockdown; Dr. Mofid designs silk fibroin wound closure prototype.◆
  • 2021: First prototype successfully created and tested.◆
  • 2022: Key patents issued; First RCT (25 patients, SYLKE vs Dermabond Prineo in abdominoplasty/breast reduction).◆
  • December 2023: Commercial product launch.◆
  • 2024: Second RCT published (50 patients, SYLKE vs Steri-Strips, PRS); Allure Best of Beauty Breakthrough Award; Seed funding $5.5M at $50M pre-money valuation.◆
  • 2025: Three new peer-reviewed studies published; Two additional product sizes launched; ISO 13485 and MDSAP certifications achieved; International market entry; AAHKS Industry Innovation Award; Breakthrough Designation with Premier GPO; Series A funding $10.03M at $150M pre-money valuation.◆
  • 2026: Establishing SYLKE as the new standard of care in wound closure.◆
Recognition

Awards & Accolades

SYLKE has earned recognition from leading healthcare organizations and media outlets

🏆

AAHKS Industry Innovation Award

2025

Recognition from the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons for innovative advancement in surgical technology.

⭐

Breakthrough Designation

2025

Premier Group Purchasing Organization (GPO) breakthrough designation for superior clinical efficacy and value proposition.

✨

Allure Best of Beauty Breakthrough

2024

Featured in Allure magazine's Best of Beauty Breakthrough awards for innovative medical device design.

Getting Started

Application Instructions

SYLKE is designed for simple application by healthcare professionals and patients alike

Prepare the Wound

Thoroughly cleanse the wound with sterile saline or appropriate antiseptic solution. The wound must be clean and dry before SYLKE application. Remove all excess moisture with sterile gauze.

Approximate the Edges

For best results, gently bring the wound edges together. If using with sutures, place sutures first, then apply SYLKE over the incision to provide additional support and tension offloading.

Remove from Packaging

Open the sterile SYLKE package. The product is pre-sterilized and ready for immediate application. Do not resterilize. Handle with clean or sterile technique as appropriate for your setting.

Apply to Wound

Align the SYLKE strip centrally over the incision, ensuring even contact along the entire length. Press firmly for 10-15 seconds to activate the pressure-sensitive adhesive. The adhesive bonds immediately — no drying time required.

Trim as Needed

SYLKE can be trimmed to fit any wound length using sterile scissors. This flexibility allows customization for different wound sizes and anatomical locations without waste.

Monitor Adhesion

Verify that all edges of the SYLKE strip are securely adhered. You may gently press any loose edges to enhance contact. The strip should remain firmly attached without lifting or peeling.

Maintain for 14 Days

SYLKE can remain on the wound for up to 14 days. It is water-resistant and can be exposed to shower water, sweat, and normal activities. Remove only when wound healing is complete or per clinical judgment.

For Complete Instructions

See the full Instruction For Use (IFU) included with each SYLKE package or contact Sunspot Medical Group for clinical training resources.

Clinical Guidelines

Indications & Contraindications

Indications for Use

SYLKE is intended for topical closure and coverage of:

  • Thoroughly cleansed simple lacerations and cuts
  • Puncture wounds (after appropriate evaluation and cleaning)
  • Post-surgical skin incisions
  • Incisions with subcutaneous or dermal sutures
  • Support for bringing together skin edges and protecting the wound during initial healing

Contraindications — Do Not Use SYLKE If:

  • The wound is actively infected
  • The wound is dirty or contaminated
  • The wound has high tension without additional skin closure devices (e.g., sutures)
  • The wound is actively bleeding

Important: These contraindications are in accordance with the SYLKE Instructions for Use. Always consult the full IFU and clinical judgment when determining appropriateness for specific cases.

SYLKE Global Relief Program

Beyond commercial markets, SYLKE is committed to extending advanced wound care to underserved communities worldwide.

  • Provides silk-fibroin dressings to healthcare facilities in low-resource settings through strategic NGO partnerships
  • Works with local health networks to ensure appropriate training and sustainable supply chains
  • Supports sustainable sourcing through Cradle to Cradle™ certified silkworm farming that benefits farming communities in India
  • Carbon-absorbing mulberry trees used in silk production contribute to environmental regeneration

Contact our team to learn about partnership opportunities or to inquire about relief program participation for qualified healthcare organizations.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Is SYLKE made from spider silk?

No. SYLKE is made from silk fibroin sourced from silkworms (Bombyx mori) grown in India, woven in Italy, and manufactured in the USA. It is not spider silk or bioengineered spider proteins. Silk fibroin from silkworms is a naturally biocompatible protein that has been used in textiles for thousands of years.

Does SYLKE contain cyanoacrylates?

No. SYLKE contains zero cyanoacrylates. It uses a long-lasting pressure-sensitive adhesive that bonds immediately to skin without generating heat or requiring drying time. This formulation avoids the hypersensitivity reactions and exothermic burns associated with cyanoacrylate-based products.

How long can SYLKE be worn?

SYLKE is water-resistant and can be worn for up to 14 days (2 weeks). It maintains its adhesive strength even with exposure to water from showers, sweat, and normal daily activities. It can be removed earlier if the wound has healed sufficiently or per clinical judgment.

Can SYLKE be used with sutures?

Yes. SYLKE can be used alone for simple wounds or layered over sutures for complex surgical closures. When used with sutures, it provides additional tension offloading and support, reducing stress on the stitches while the wound heals.

Who can apply SYLKE?

SYLKE can be applied by both healthcare professionals (surgeons, nurses, physician assistants) and consumers (patients). It is designed for intuitive application with minimal training. Always follow the Instruction for Use and ensure wounds are clean and dry before application.

What is SYLKE's FDA status?

SYLKE is an FDA Class I medical device exempt from 510(k) premarket notification. It is ISO 13485:2016 certified for medical device quality management and has passed MDSAP audits for global regulatory compliance.

How is SYLKE sterilized?

SYLKE is sterilized using ethylene oxide (EO) gas, a standard method for medical devices. Each unit is packaged as single-use and sterile. Do not resterilize or reuse SYLKE products.

What are SYLKE's contraindications?

Do not use SYLKE on infected wounds, dirty or contaminated wounds, high-tension wounds without additional support (sutures), or actively bleeding wounds. Always ensure the wound is thoroughly cleansed and hemostasis is achieved before application.

Has SYLKE been clinically studied?

Yes. SYLKE is backed by 5 peer-reviewed studies demonstrating superior efficacy. These include a hypersensitivity study showing 0% allergic contact dermatitis (vs 52% for Dermabond Prineo) and a randomized trial demonstrating 0% erythema compared to 20.8% for Steri-Strips.

How many patients have been treated with SYLKE?

SYLKE has been used to treat 600,000+ patients globally since its commercial launch in December 2023. This growing patient population represents diverse wound types, surgical specialties, and anatomical locations.

Experience SYLKE Today

Join 600,000+ patients who have benefited from advanced silk fibroin wound closure. Whether you're a patient seeking options or a healthcare provider integrating SYLKE into your practice, our team is ready to support you.

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Medical Device Disclaimer: SYLKE is an FDA Class I medical device intended for topical wound closure and coverage. This page provides educational information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before using any medical device. Individual results may vary. For complete safety information, contraindications, and warnings, refer to the SYLKE Instructions for Use included with each package. Manufactured by Sylke, Inc., 4150 Regents Park Row, Suite 300, La Jolla, CA 92037. SYLKE is a registered trademark. Cradle to Cradle is a registered trademark. Patent pending for specific SYLKE formulations and applications.