The skin is the body’s largest organ and is very absorbent, taking in many of the small particles contained in products that we apply to our body. We know this to be true because of the popularity of transdermal patches of nicotine, birth control and pain killers which are very effective. If we are trying to live a natural and organic lifestyle it is so important to pay attention to the kinds of products we use on our skin.
Most of the conventional products that we use on our body contain harsh chemicals which end up in our blood and lymphatic system thus leading to certain health conditions. This is even more likely when products are applied over a large area of the body and left for a period of time, so it is important to buy natural and organic make-up, face and body lotions, deodorant, perfume, body powders, bath soaks, and shampoo and conditioner. Children have much more porous skin than adults and because their immune system is not yet fully formed it is important to apply only natural and organic products to their skin.
The skin’s sponge-like qualities are not all bad though. Transdermal medicine delivery has shown to be an effective and easy way for the body to absorb medications, pain killers, hormones, minerals and vitamins. Taking supplements and medication orally may inhibit absorption as they have to survive stomach acid, digestive enzymes, and liver enzymes before getting into the bloodstream. Transdermal delivery on the other hand enables these active ingredients to bypass the stomach and liver so they can get straight into the bloodstream quickly and helps to avoid side effects. People who forget to take medication, can’t swallow tablets and those who suffer with digestive problems are great candidates for transdermal medicine.
There are many ways that minerals, vitamins, hormones, medications and other compounds can be absorbed transdermally, whether through sprays, patches, creams, oil, body scrubs or by soaking in a bath. Transdermal magnesium chloride oil for example, when applied directly to the skin, can provide relief from lower back pain, sports injuries, sciatica, headaches, restless leg syndrome, arthritis and other painful conditions. Magnesium can also be absorbed through the skin by soaking in a warm bath of Epsom salts. Transdermal absorption is improved by applying the patch, cream or oil to a part of the body with thinner skin like the inside of the arm, using skin that is hydrated and by covering a bigger surface area of the body.
Sources
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/deborah-burnes/skin-care_b_1540929.html
http://www.naturalnews.com/024142_skin_medicine_magnesium.html#