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OZOKERITE

Also known as: Earth wax, Ozokerite

Overview

Ozokerite is a naturally occurring mineral wax derived from coal and shale. Formed over millions of years from compressed plant materials, it is primarily utilized in the cosmetics industry for its film-forming, hydrophobic, and emulsion-stabilizing properties. It enhances skin moisture retention and provides a protective barrier against environmental stressors. Ozokerite is not typically used as a dietary supplement. Its key characteristics include creating a barrier on the skin surface to lock in moisture and protect against external factors. Research on ozokerite mainly focuses on its cosmetic applications, with limited clinical trials on human health. Most evidence comes from cosmetic and industrial studies, highlighting its role in enhancing skin hydration and stabilizing cosmetic formulations.

Benefits

Ozokerite's primary benefit is enhancing skin hydration by forming a protective barrier, though specific quantified outcomes from clinical trials are lacking. It supports the cohesion of powdered products and stabilizes emulsions in cosmetics. It is particularly beneficial for individuals with dry, rough, or chapped skin due to its moisturizing properties. Upon application, ozokerite immediately forms a skin barrier, providing immediate relief from dryness. However, its benefits are primarily cosmetic, and there is limited evidence to support its use as a health supplement.

How it works

Ozokerite functions by creating a physical barrier on the skin's surface, which enhances moisture retention and protects against environmental factors. This hydrophobic layer prevents water loss from the skin, keeping it hydrated. The interaction is primarily with the skin's surface, and ozokerite is not absorbed into the body. There are no specific molecular targets identified for health benefits, as its mechanism is purely physical, providing a protective layer.

Side effects

Ozokerite is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics, but long-term exposure has been linked to systemic chronic inflammation and weak carcinogenic effects in animal studies. While common and uncommon side effects are not well-documented, rare side effects include potential environmental pollution and contamination with polyaromatic hydrocarbons. There are no documented drug interactions or contraindications. Caution is advised due to the potential environmental impact of its extraction and disposal. Although generally safe for topical use, the potential for systemic effects from long-term exposure warrants careful consideration.

Dosage

Ozokerite is not used as a dietary supplement, so there are no recommended dosages. It is applied topically in various cosmetic formulations to create a protective barrier on the skin. The amount used depends on the specific product formulation. There is no minimum effective dose, optimal dosage range, or maximum safe dose in the context of dietary supplements. Its effect is immediate upon application, and there are no required cofactors or absorption factors to consider.

FAQs

Is ozokerite safe for cosmetic use?

Yes, ozokerite is generally considered safe for cosmetic use, but there are potential environmental concerns related to its extraction and disposal.

Can ozokerite be used as a dietary supplement?

No, ozokerite is not a dietary supplement. It is primarily used in cosmetics for its skin-protective properties.

How does ozokerite help the skin?

Ozokerite enhances skin hydration by forming a protective barrier that locks in moisture and protects against environmental factors.

Are there any side effects from using ozokerite?

While generally safe, long-term exposure to ozokerite has been linked to systemic chronic inflammation in animal studies.

How quickly does ozokerite work?

Ozokerite provides an immediate effect upon application, forming a protective barrier on the skin's surface.

Research Sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23380203/ – This chronic toxicity and carcinogenicity study on male F344 rats found that long-term exposure to ozokerite can cause systemic chronic inflammation and is weakly carcinogenic in the liver. The study provides insight into potential health risks associated with long-term exposure but is limited by its animal model and lack of direct applicability to humans. The findings suggest caution in prolonged or excessive exposure to ozokerite.
https://patents.google.com/patent/WO2024224355A1/en – This patent application discusses the use of ozokerite in cosmetic formulations. It highlights ozokerite's properties in enhancing skin hydration and providing a protective barrier. The patent focuses on the cosmetic applications of ozokerite rather than its potential health risks or benefits as a supplement.
https://periodical.knowde.com/ozokerite-in-cosmetics-personal-care-products/ – This article reviews the use of ozokerite in cosmetics and personal care products, emphasizing its safety and functionality. It notes that ozokerite is safe for cosmetic use but may have environmental impacts. The review focuses on cosmetic applications rather than health supplements, providing safety information for cosmetic use.
https://www.revivalabs.com/what-is-ozokerite-in-skincare/ – This article provides a descriptive analysis of ozokerite's role in skincare formulations, highlighting its ability to enhance skin hydration and provide a protective barrier. It offers practical insights into the cosmetic benefits of ozokerite. The analysis is not a clinical trial but offers valuable information on its cosmetic applications.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2022.895192/full – This research article focuses on nutritional aspects and does not directly relate to ozokerite. Therefore, it is not relevant to the properties, effects, and usage guidelines of ozokerite.