What type of suture material is commonly used for skin closure due to its non-reactive properties?

Polypropylene is commonly used for skin closure because it is a non-reactive synthetic material that has excellent tensile strength and is resistant to infection. Its low reactivity minimizes the risk of an inflammatory response, making it an ideal choice for closing skin wounds. Additionally, polypropylene is a monofilament suture, which allows for smooth passage through tissues, reducing tissue drag and further contributing to its biocompatibility.

Silk, while used in some surgical applications, has a higher tendency to provoke a tissue reaction due to its braided nature and would not be the preferred choice for skin closure. Absorbable sutures, although useful for internal structures, are designed to be broken down by the body over time and are not suitable for skin closure, where long-term support is often needed. Catgut, derived from animal intestines, is also absorbable and can induce tissue reaction, making it less favorable in comparison to polypropylene for this specific application.