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The beneficial effects of hydrogen peroxide have been used, among others, by in cosmetology. How does the substance affect the skin? What are its properties? Is it worth using cosmetics with its content?
Hydrogen peroxide – what is it?
Hydrogen peroxide is water (H2O) with an additional oxygen molecule (H2O2). When this extra oxygen molecule is oxidized, the solution is able to disinfect and whiten surfaces. Oxidation generates free radicals that attack pathogens and / or microorganisms. Hydrogen peroxide has disinfectant, antiviral and antibacterial properties.
Hydrogen peroxide differs in its ability to fight bacteria depending on its concentration. Medical grade hydrogen peroxide is present at a concentration of 3%. This means the bottle contains 3% hydrogen peroxide and 97% water. Higher concentrations are available but may be toxic if ingested or inhaled. For example, food grade hydrogen peroxide has a concentration of 35%. Most household cleaners that contain hydrogen peroxide have a concentration of between 3% and 9%.
Low concentrations of hydrogen peroxide are usually safe when cleaning surfaces. However, higher concentrations are very irritating to the eyes, skin and intestines. Inhalation or ingestion may cause burning, ulceration, coughing, shortness of breath, vomiting and bleeding.
Hydrogen peroxide – purification
Hydrogen peroxide is a versatile cleaner that can be used for almost anything in your home, whether it’s laundry, toilet, or marble countertops. There are considerations with using hydrogen peroxide – for example, hydrogen peroxide can bleach colored clothes or stain dark marble countertops – but there are also benefits to choosing hydrogen peroxide cleaning.
Hydrogen peroxide – acne
Hydrogen peroxide is bactericidal, therefore it is perfect as a remedy for acne. Peroxide, penetrating into the deeper parts of the skin, oxygenates it. Thus, it prevents anaerobic bacteria from their harmful effects, and oily skin with acne is kept in good condition. It is more moisturized, radiant, elastic and free from inflammation and blemishes.
See: Don’t drink hydrogen peroxide! It might even kill you!
Hydrogen peroxide – cellulite
Hydrogen peroxide is a very good way to get rid of cellulite in different parts of the body. Its action helps to eliminate even the most compact piles of fat on the thighs, buttocks or abdomen. Hydrogen peroxide oxygenates the skin, improves its metabolism, and also supports circulation, which is important in combating cellulite.
The editorial board recommends: Slimming massages – relaxation and a way to reduce cellulite
Hydrogen peroxide in cosmetics
Hydrogen peroxide is a highly oxidizing chemical. This advantageous quality contributed significantly to the use of hydrogen peroxide in cosmetics. It is of course used in low concentrations and under close supervision.
Hydrogen peroxide is most commonly used in cosmetics applied directly to the skin. This is due to its properties, as it slows down the aging process, firms and cleanses the skin. For this reason, small amounts of hydrogen peroxide are commonly used, for example, in acne lotions and creams.
Hydrogen peroxide solution is added to oxidizing cosmetics. Their role is to improve skin firmness and cleanse the pores of the skin, in which this substance works perfectly. Even a small amount significantly improves the process of absorption of nutrients by the skin.
Also read: Seven skincare mistakes we make in the summer
Hydrogen peroxide in oxygen therapies
The healing effect of hydrogen peroxide is used in therapies offered by many beauty salons. Active oxygen therapies are recommended as a supplement to home care with hydrogen peroxide. Just one treatment helps to maintain the proper metabolism of the skin and improve its overall condition. Thanks to the treatments, the skin is oxygenated, regenerated and full of energy.
Hydrogen peroxide – possible side effects
Hydrogen peroxide is a chemical and can cause serious side effects. The higher the concentration, the more severe the side effects can be. If you use a higher concentration of hydrogen peroxide on your skin, you may experience burning and blistering. Even low concentrations, such as 3% medical options, can cause skin irritation.
Ingestion of hydrogen peroxide causes the formation of oxygen bubbles in the stomach. Low concentrations are unlikely to be a serious health hazard, but there is a possibility of foaming in the mouth and vomiting up the foam.
Since hydrogen peroxide is irritating, mouth aches and stomach upsets are common. If you ingest a higher concentration of hydrogen peroxide, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Hydrogen peroxide can cause gastrointestinal bleeding, burning in the esophagus, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, and dizziness. Life-threatening side effects such as seizures, fluid build-up in the lungs are also possible.
It is also dangerous to inhale high concentrations of hydrogen peroxide. Symptoms may begin as eye and nose irritation, then progress to coughing, shortness of breath, chest congestion, and bleeding in the lungs.
To avoid these serious dangers, never keep highly concentrated hydrogen peroxide in your home. If you keep a 3% hydrogen peroxide bottle for cleaning, place it on a high shelf away from children and make sure it’s clearly labeled.