#15
TRUE OR FALSE?
The series where we share common myths or misconceptions about how how things work.
Would you be surprised if I say false? I know this is a common statement that regularly circulates social media and I want to address it.
Anatomy and physiology 101
Your skin is your largest organ. It is about 3mm think. It’s sole purpose it to keep things out of your body. The outer layer is made up of dead cells. Below that is the living layer. The third and final layer contains your nerves, sweat glands, hair follicles, blood vessels.
Products that are applied to the skin must enter through hair follicles or sweat glands. In contrast to sweating which is active, the passage of molecules inwards occurs passively. By diffusion. And only if they remain in contact with the skin for more than a few moments.
Chemicals (both good and bad – remember, water is a chemical), are made up of molecules. Some are large, some are small. Larger molecules take longer to pass through than smaller ones.
Rate of absorption depends on many factors including how fast a substance will evaporate.
Certain oils tend to stop the absorption of molecules through the skin (olive and almond oil, both slow absorption rates of other chemicals).
Water can increase the rate of absorption by hydrating the top layer of the skin. Heat can increase the amount of blood circulating and speed up the absorption of chemicals.
As molecules enter into the epidermis, it acts as a reservoirs and some products can be released slowly over time.
My point? This statement is not really entirely true. The sentiment that is trying to be achieved is that we should be aware of what we put on our skin because at some point it may enter our blood stream. But in all honesty, this is a fear-mongering statement companies will use to encourage you to use their products.
But it is important to educate yourself. To try and find the truth behind statements and claims that are made so that you can make informed and educated decisions about the products you do choose to put on your skin.
Find the truth. Share the truth. And make the change.
