Science-based body care hacks: KP, breakouts, dark marks

Summary

The video explores effective methods for managing folliculitis and skin health through both laundry and skin care techniques. It discusses the use of oxidizing agents like hydrogen peroxide and powdered detergents to eliminate microbes, along with the importance of addressing microbial biofilms in washing machines. The speaker shares their personal experiences with using a combination of liquid and powder detergents, as well as pre-washing clothes with Vanish Oxi Action. Additionally, they review skin care treatments like benzoyl peroxide, hypochlorous acid, and chlorhexidine to target bacterial overgrowth on the skin.

Takeaways

• 😀 The speaker struggled with folliculitis, a skin condition linked to bacterial infections, and explored various treatments to manage it.
• 😀 Laundry detergents containing oxidizing agents, like those with hydrogen peroxide, may be more effective in controlling microbial growth than liquid detergents.
• 😀 Liquid detergents may not sanitize clothes as effectively because they lack long-lasting oxidizing agents, which can help kill bacteria.
• 😀 Some washing machines harbor microbial biofilms, which could contribute to the spread of folliculitis-causing bacteria during washing.
• 😀 To address bacterial contamination, the speaker has used a combination of liquid detergent and Vanish Oxi Action powder for better sanitation of clothes.
• 😀 Pre-washing clothes with hydrogen peroxide or soaking them in it might help sanitize clothes more effectively, reducing the risk of folliculitis outbreaks.
• 😀 The speaker experimented with benzoyl peroxide washes for skin care, noting that they are effective for bacterial control with less risk of bleaching compared to other products.
• 😀 Hypochlorous acid is another antimicrobial option, but its marketing is often misleading, and it is chemically similar to dilute bleach, which can be harsh on skin if used improperly.
• 😀 The use of diluted bleach for certain skin conditions is recommended by some professionals, but it should be approached with caution to avoid harmful reactions, like chlorine gas production.
• 😀 Chlorhexidine washes (such as Schuelke Microshield or Hibiclens) have helped the speaker manage breakouts by reducing skin bacteria, especially when used as a body wash during flare-ups.
• 😀 A balanced approach is essential when using oxidizing agents; while effective for targeting harmful microbes, they can disrupt the skin’s natural microbiome if overused.

Q & A

What is the main cause of folliculitis as discussed in the video?

The main cause of folliculitis, as discussed, is the presence of microbes, such as bacteria and mold, that can infect hair follicles, leading to inflammation and breakouts. These microbes can grow in various environments, including in washing machines, on the skin, and within other moist areas.

Why are liquid detergents less effective than powder detergents for sanitizing clothes?

Liquid detergents may be less effective for sanitizing because they contain water, which can prevent the inclusion of oxidizing agents that help kill microbes. Powders like Vanish Oxi Action, which contain such oxidizing agents, can reduce microbial presence both on the clothes and inside the washing machine.

What is a potential solution to enhance the sanitization of clothes washed with liquid detergent?

A potential solution is to mix liquid detergent with half Vanish Oxi Action powder or pre-soak clothes with this powder before washing. This helps introduce oxidation and may reduce microbial contamination that liquid detergents alone cannot address.

What is a concern about using hypochlorous acid for skin care?

The concern with hypochlorous acid is its misleading marketing and claims that it is entirely different from chlorine bleach. While chemically similar to diluted bleach, it is marketed as being 'natural' and safe, which can be misleading. The speaker recommends caution due to inconsistent evidence supporting its effectiveness and safety.

What is the relationship between washing machines and folliculitis outbreaks?

Washing machines can harbor microbial biofilms that contribute to folliculitis outbreaks. These biofilms, which consist of bacteria and mold, can transfer onto clothes during washing, leading to contamination. Therefore, maintaining a clean washing machine is crucial for reducing the risk of folliculitis.

How does benzoyl peroxide help with folliculitis?

Benzoyl peroxide helps by acting as an antimicrobial agent that reduces the number of bacteria on the skin. It also provides a mild bleaching effect, which is less likely to cause issues like other harsher products. It is useful for preventing folliculitis and can be used in washes or as a deodorant for areas like the armpits.

What is the role of oxidation in managing folliculitis and skin care?

Oxidation helps manage folliculitis by killing the bacteria or other microbes that cause the condition. Products like benzoyl peroxide, hydrogen peroxide, and certain laundry powders work through oxidation to reduce microbial presence on both the skin and fabrics.

How can hypochlorous acid be similar to bleach in its effects?

Hypochlorous acid, while marketed differently, is chemically similar to diluted bleach. It works as an oxidizing agent to kill microbes, but some products mislead consumers by downplaying this similarity. Despite the marketing claims, it should be used with care due to its potential risks and unproven claims.

What precaution should be taken when using bleach-based products for skin care?

When using bleach-based products like diluted bleach or hypochlorous acid, it's important to know the correct dilution ratios to avoid skin damage. Overuse or improper dilution could lead to harmful effects, and it's advised to use these products with caution or seek guidance before use.

What is chlorhexidine, and how is it used for managing skin issues like folliculitis?

Chlorhexidine is an antimicrobial agent commonly used in surgical hand washes. It can be applied to the skin, especially when dealing with breakouts or folliculitis. The speaker uses Schuelke Microshield (or Hibiclens in the US) in the shower to cleanse the body and leave it on for a short period before rinsing, helping to reduce bacterial load on the skin.