What if I told you there was an anti-aging powerhouse that significantly outperforms retinol (without burning your skin off) and it has been used by humans for over 100 years?
Meet Methylene Blue
(Most people picture think of Breaking Bad if they have never heard of it before)
Despite its recent popularity, this is not a new fad. Methylene Blue, a dye and antioxidant with over a century of medicinal use for malaria, snake bites, and certain poisonings. Yet, its most surprising role might just be in skincare, where it’s emerging as a game-changer for anti-aging while being gentle enough on the skin for pregnant and nursing women (yes, it's FDA-approved for them, too)
Clinical Research and Findings
A pivotal study by researchers at the University of Maryland explored methylene blue's anti-aging effects using 3D human skin models derived from middle-aged human skin cells. These models closely replicate actual human skin structure and function. Key findings include:
- Improved Hydration and Thickness: Methylene blue-treated skin retained more water and increased in thickness, leading to plumper and smoother skin with reduced fine lines and wrinkles.
- Enhanced Collagen and Elastin Levels: Treated skin showed higher levels of collagen and elastin, essential components for maintaining skin firmness and elasticity. Methylene blue stimulates fibroblasts, the cells responsible for collagen production, enhancing their ability to repair and regenerate the skin, thereby reducing fine lines and wrinkles
- Wound Healing and Mitochondrial Repair: Methylene blue combats cellular aging by reducing oxidative stress in mitochondria and increasing the expression of collagen and elastin, fundamental for skin health.
-
Increased Cell Proliferation: Methylene blue enhances skin cell proliferation, replacing old and damaged cells with new, healthy ones. This leads to a reduction in visible signs of aging.
Stronger than Retinol?
- A follow-up study done in 2021 by Dr. Cao's company Bluelene showed that Methylene Blue outperformed retinol in skin cell proliferation, and considerably so when paired with Vitamin C.
This is especially significant when considering that 0% of MB subjects reported any skin irritation whatsoever - a stark contrast from the chemical warfare side effects that retinol is notorious for.
Wrapping up
Methylene blue offers a promising alternative to traditional anti-aging treatments. Its ability to improve skin hydration, thickness, elasticity, and collagen production, coupled with its suitability for sensitive skin, positions it as a revolutionary ingredient in the skincare industry. The comprehensive research and clinical trials underscore its efficacy in making long-term improvements to skin health.
Aloe Tallow's commitment to safe skincare means bringing our customers a premium experience that delivers results - without putting any chemicals in your bloodstream.
Our Methylene Blue soap uses the purest methylene blue available (99.9% USP) and is paired with Vitamin C to increase absorption and effectiveness of the product.
References
- Zheng-Mei Xiong, Yuntao Liu, Jie Lv, Chia-Ching Cai, John L. Arbiser, and Kan Cao. "Anti-aging potentials of methylene blue for human skin longevity." Scientific Reports (2017).
- "Methylene Blue 101: Skin Aging & How Methylene Blue Can Help," Bluelene.
- "Methylene Blue: A Promising Anti-Aging Agent for Human Skin," SciSoup.