What the hell is methylene blue?
Everyone's talking about it!
This little blue dye that has the internet by storm.
Methylene Blue is a dye invented in the 1800's. It has since been studied for a number of benefits, including boost health!
It's used in cyanide poisonings, but also has effects on cognition and endurance.
But the main question we want to know is:
Can it be good for skin too?
Well!
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Antimicrobial Properties: Methylene blue exhibits antimicrobial activity against a wide range of bacteria, fungi, and parasites. It may be used topically to treat skin infections caused by bacteria or fungi, such as acne, impetigo, or fungal skin infections.
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Antioxidant Effects: Methylene blue has antioxidant properties, meaning it can neutralize harmful free radicals and protect skin cells from oxidative damage.
This antioxidant activity may help prevent premature aging of the skin and reduce the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots. That's why so many people love using it for their skin! -
Wound Healing: Methylene blue has been investigated for its potential to enhance wound healing!
It can promote tissue regeneration, reduce inflammation, and accelerate the closure of wounds. Methylene blue dressings or topical formulations may be used in the treatment of chronic wounds, ulcers, or burns. -
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT): Methylene blue also has super medical applications.
It's sometimes used as a photosensitizer in photodynamic therapy (PDT) for certain skin conditions, including certain types of skin cancer (e.g., basal cell carcinoma) and precancerous lesions (e.g., actinic keratosis). In PDT, methylene blue is applied topically to the skin and activated with light of a specific wavelength, leading to the destruction of abnormal cells. -
Treatment of Dermatologic Conditions: Methylene blue has been explored for the treatment of various dermatologic conditions, including pruritus (itching), eczema, psoriasis, and vitiligo.
Its super anti-inflammatory and antipruritic properties can provide symptomatic relief in these conditions, leaving your skin feeling relieved. -
Reduction of Blue Light Damage: Do you spend a lot of time in front of screens, probably for work?
Methylene blue has been studied for its potential to protect the skin from damage caused by blue light exposure, particularly from electronic devices such as smartphones, computers, and LED lights.
Blue light is TERRIBLE for your health, and has been implicated in oxidative stress, inflammation, and premature aging of the skin. Who would have thought your phone could give you wrinkles?
Combine this with a skin-safe base like tallow, and you have a mega moisturizing solution for any problem!