4 Topical Ingredients I'm Interested in Learning More About
Discover the latest insights on intriguing topical ingredients that are making waves in the health and skincare world. From the potential of emu oil for lichen sclerosus to the effects of topical CBD on osteoarthritis pain, this article delves into cutting-edge research. Drawing on expert knowledge, we'll explore these fascinating topics along with the benefits of niacinamide in skincare and the impact of synthetic dyes in beverages.
- Emu Oil Potential for Lichen Sclerosus
- Topical CBD Effects on Osteoarthritis Pain
- Niacinamide Benefits in Skincare
- Yellow #5 Synthetic Dye in Beverages
Emu Oil Potential for Lichen Sclerosus
I'm currently working on a new formulation, meant to soothe the symptoms of Lichen sclerosus. In my research, Emu Oil has come up several times as a good option to include. Calendula has long been my "go-to" oil for anti-inflammatory and skin healing properties, but it looks like Emu Oil may also address the itching and swelling common with Lichen sclerosus. I'm only in the beginning stages of my research, but I'm really interested in learning more about Emu Oil and its efficacy in addressing other health concerns.
Topical CBD Effects on Osteoarthritis Pain
Can topical CBD reduce pain in osteoarthritis?
Although widely available over-the-counter and online, there is still much to be learned about the pain-relieving effects of the topical form of cannabidiol (i.e., CBD cream). CBD is an active compound commonly extracted from hemp, a type of cannabis. (CBD is not THC, i.e., tetrahydrocannabinol, the psychoactive compound found in the cannabis plant). Confoundingly, some CBD products also contain up to 3% of THC.
CBD can be taken in oral, topical, and inhaled forms. Animal studies and small human studies suggest that CBD has pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. One study published in the Journal of Hand Surgery in 2022 showed a statistically significant improvement in pain symptoms and hand function in patients with thumb arthritis after a 2-week course of 6.2 mg/ml of topical CBD applied twice a day compared to placebo subjects. Although this was a randomized controlled study, there were only 9 treatment patients versus 9 control subjects, and it was very short-term.
This and other human studies have shown topical CBD is safe to use, but much larger and longer-term studies are needed to establish whether topical CBD can reliably treat pain from osteoarthritis. However, if proven to be effective, it can be an attractive alternative to oral NSAIDs or narcotic pain medications for many arthritis patients.
Niacinamide Benefits in Skincare
One topical ingredient I'm particularly interested in learning more about is niacinamide. I've recently come across it in several skincare products, and it piques my curiosity because of its versatile benefits. From brightening skin to improving the appearance of fine lines, niacinamide seems to have a wide range of positive effects without being harsh on sensitive skin. What really caught my attention is its ability to regulate sebum production, making it suitable for both dry and oily skin types. I'm curious to dive deeper into how it interacts with other ingredients and how it can be used to address specific skin concerns like hyperpigmentation or redness. The science behind it seems promising, and I'm excited to explore how it could be incorporated into more personalized skincare routines.
Yellow #5 Synthetic Dye in Beverages
One ingredient I've been really curious about lately is Yellow #5. You see it all the time—especially in drinks that proudly say '0% juice' right on the label. Sports drinks, sodas, those neon-colored lemonades... they're glowing like a highlighter, and Yellow #5 is usually the reason why.
And I have to ask—what even is it? I mean, it sure isn't squeezed out of a lemon. It turns out, it's a synthetic dye, lab-made, and originally derived from coal tar. Yes, coal tar. These days it's made from petroleum. That alone makes me raise an eyebrow.
It's wild how something so artificial ends up in so many things we drink, especially stuff marketed to kids or folks trying to be 'health-conscious.' I'm not a scientist, but common sense tells me if it's got a number instead of a name, it probably isn't doing your body any favors.
