Silver oxide in organic cosmetics
Some cosmetics labeled "organic" contain an ingredient called silver oxide.
Some people may wonder, "Metal in cosmetics?" Also, some people may be worried about whether it is safe to apply metal to the skin.
In this article, we will explain why silver oxide is used in cosmetics and its safety.
What is Silver Oxide?
Silver oxide is a cosmetic ingredient that stabilizes silver. Silver has a deodorizing and preservative effect due to the silver ions it releases. Taking advantage of this characteristic, it has been used in many cosmetics, such as deodorant sprays, acne care products, and skin care for sensitive skin.
Silver oxide, which is made from silver, is a natural cosmetic ingredient . Therefore, it is increasingly being used in natural and organic cosmetics as a natural preservative to replace synthetic preservatives such as parabens .
Is silver oxide safe?
Silver oxide is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
For example, the Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration 's safety survey report on various countries has stated that silver oxide does not cause skin sensitization, meaning there is a low risk of allergies . It is also considered unlikely to be a carcinogen. However, there is still little data on reproductive toxicity and other risks.
In addition, the EWG gives silver oxide a safety rating of "2." Although they mention the risk of organ dysfunction when ingested orally, for now it seems to be a safe ingredient for both skin and health.
However, EWG certified cosmetics are not permitted to contain silver oxide.
Why is that?
Silver is highly toxic to aquatic organisms
In fact, silver is known to be the most toxic metal to aquatic organisms.
The same is true of silver oxide, which is made by stabilizing silver.
It accumulates in the bodies of aquatic creatures and is said to be highly toxic. Due to consideration for the environment and living creatures, it is prohibited from being used in EWG-certified cosmetics.
Incidentally, the toxicity of silver in water is related to the hardness of the water: the harder the water, the less toxic it is.
However, the water in Japan is soft, meaning that its toxicity to aquatic life is likely to continue unabated.
Nano-sized silver used in cosmetics
Silver has been widely used in various forms in cosmetics. Recently, when silver is used in cosmetics, nano-sized silver is increasingly being used. This is because nano-sized particles smaller than pollen or human skin cells improve the functionality and usability of the cosmetic ingredient.
However, scientists are divided on the safety and toxicity of nano-sized silver for humans.
On the one hand, there are researchers who claim that nanosilver particles can easily be absorbed through the skin and enter the body, and they are concerned that nanosilver could damage cell structures and DNA, as well as affect organs.
On the other hand, researchers claim that nano silver can protect against skin diseases, and that nano silver particles are less toxic because they are washed out of the bloodstream.
Indeed, some studies suggest that nano-sized particles are safe because they do not penetrate the skin barrier , even on damaged skin.
However, there is still much we do not know at present, and further research is needed to establish the safety of nano-sized silver.
Article on nano ingredients in cosmetics: Why you should avoid nano ingredients in cosmetics
Useful information is being distributed via LINE
CONCIO Academy's LINE account provides tips for choosing better cosmetics. Please use it to make truly kind choices for yourself and your loved ones . Register here → https://lin.ee/jAkRPAs
"CONCIO" - A company that thoroughly researches the risks of cosmetic ingredients
CONCIO is the first additive-free skin care product in Japan to receive EWG certification, meeting new standards.
Focusing on the risk of skin irritation and allergies caused by cosmetic ingredients, we have implemented our own safety standards by not using 2,500 ingredients, providing global standards of safety to Japanese sensitive skin.
*This does not guarantee that skin irritation or allergies will not occur in all people.
