One of the biggest myths in skincare is that the products you put onto your skin will enter the bloodstream. Certain medications have the ability to pass through your skin into the bloodstream (like the nicotine and birth control patch), but every day cosmetics DO NOT have the ability to do that.
What does the skin do?
Your skin is the largest organ in your body and serves as a protective barrier against the external environment. It is designed to keep harmful substances out while retaining moisture and essential nutrients within.
Does everything penetrate the skin?
Contrary to popular belief, not everything you put on your skin is absorbed into your bloodstream. The skin has multiple layers, each with its own function. The outermost layer, the epidermis, is particularly effective at blocking the entry of foreign substances. For a substance to enter the bloodstream via the skin, it would need to pas through many layers including the dermis, where blood vessels exist. The majority of cosmetic ingredients simply do not have the ability to make it that far through the many layers of skin.
What factors affect absorption?
The ability of a substance to penetrate the skin depends on various factors such as its molecular size, solubility, and the presence of enhancers. Some substances, like water and small molecules, can pass through the skin more easily than others.
The skin is a highly effective protective barrier. The outermost layer of skin, the stratum corneum, acts as tough shield against most substances. Only small molecules, with a molecular weight below 1000 Daltons, have the potential to penetrate the skin. Even with a small enough molecule, that doesn't mean it will pass through the deeper layers of the skin and into the bloodstream.
Are there risks?
While the skin is an effective barrier, certain chemicals and compounds can still penetrate the skin and enter the bloodstream. This is why it is important to be mindful of the ingredients in the skincare products you use, especially if you have sensitive skin or allergies.
How to protect your skin?
To minimize the risk of harmful substances entering your bloodstream through the skin, opt for products with gentle ingredients. Avoid harsh chemicals and always perform a patch test before trying a new product.
Remember, while some substances can penetrate the skin, the idea that everything you put onto your skin enters the bloodstream is a myth. Your skin is a smart and efficient barrier that works hard to keep you safe and healthy.