Why does our skin need minerals?
In order to have fantastic health and vitality we need to have the proper amount of minerals in our cells. Our bodies use over 80 minerals in order to reach our maximum function. When we are mineral depleted the evidence can appear as problems with our skin. Some examples of this “mineral malnutrition” in our skin could be: improper or slow wound healing, increased effects of oxidative stress, hyperpigmentation, loss of hair and skin strength, higher susceptibility of skin cancer, photoaging and wrinkles.
The structure and function of every living cell in our body depends on minerals. If it were not for minerals, our blood and bones would not form properly. We wouldn’t have the correct composition of bodily fluids. Our nerves and cardiovascular system also wouldn’t function properly. The list could go on and on. Minerals are co-factors, just like vitamins, that help the body to do every day tasks – like the functions of producing energy, growing and healing. Even enzymatic activity depends on minerals.
When it comes to nutrition, minerals are grouped in to two categories. Macro-minerals(bulk) like calcium and magnesium, and Micro-minerals(trace elements) like boron, iron, zinc. Of course we need a lot more of the Macro-minerals, but that does not diminish the need for the Micro-minerals in order to achieve optimal health. Dr. Linus Pauling is quoted for saying, “You can trace every sickness, every disease and every ailment to a mineral deficiency.”
In order for human skin to have healthy physiological activity there must be bioavailable trace elements present. These “mineral” elements can aid in the reversal of free radical, oxidative stress that damages the skin. They do this by rejuvenating key enzymes in the skin along with a host of other benefits. This is the main reason for incorporating certain mineral peptides into our Youth-Derm® Ultra Healing Aloe Cream.
We have chosen to use the mineral peptides Copper, Magnesium and Potassium. You will see these as Saccharomyces/Copper Ferment, Saccharomyces/Magnesium Ferment Hydrolysate, and Saccharomyces/Potassium Ferment Hydrolysate on your ingredient label. When minerals are left in their simple, ionic form they can not penetrate the skin. When they are converted to a low molecular weight peptide, the minerals are then free to quickly soak into the skin and become bioavailable. These minerals are converted by a yeast called Saccharomyces cerevisiae into a bioavailable, low molecular weight glycopeptide. The yeast is then completely purified (taken out) to leave the minerals in a suitable form that can transport easily through the cell wall of the skin. Water is the only solvent used during the processing and purification of these minerals. No organic solvents like Butane or Benzene are used.
Let’s now take a closer look at the mineral peptide Copper(Cu). Copper is a highly effective agent for reducing fine lines and wrinkles, firming the skin, improving skin strength, stimulating natural antioxidant enzymes, and aiding in skin regeneration. Copper is also active in the last phases of wound healing. There have been topical studies done with copper and they have shown to promote collagen and elastin production along with glycosaminoglycans. Copper can help the body’s natural tissue building processes.
Dr. Zein Obagi is a leading dermatologist that incorporates Magnesium in his skin health products. He states that Magnesium is important for improving circulation and stimulating the skin. We all know that when we get a bruise, it takes a while for the dark color to go away. When blood flow, or circulation, is increased to that area, the bruise goes away more quickly. It stimulates the skin to maintain healthy elasticity and normal moisture levels. Magnesium(Mg) is essential in hindering the aging processes of the skin. We have had tremendous results with our Youth-Derm® Ultra Healing Aloe Cream in the area of geriatric hematomas due to blood thinning. After using Youth-Derm® the bruising was drastically reduced if not completely removed.
Last but not least is Potassium(K). If you suffer from muscle cramping – you may have heard someone say, “Eat a banana.” That is because potassium helps to keep our muscles under control while also keeping our kidneys functioning properly. Our hearts would not beat without the proper potassium balance. Needless to say, it is highly important for our bodies. But what you might not have known, is Potassium has many benefit to make the skin more beautiful and healthy. It is important for the growth of new skin cells. Imagine what we would look like if our skin cells didn’t slough off every few day and fresh new cells were not behind them? Yuck! Potassium plays a major role in maintaining the fluid and electrolyte balance. We need that balance in our skin as well.
Please remember the importance of diet when it comes to true skin beauty. You could apply the most amazing cream on your skin topically, but if what goes into your mouth is sugar and trans-fat food, you may as well skip the cream. The best way for any mineral to benefit the human body and skin, is by consuming the raw, organic plants that have high amounts of these minerals naturally. Many people know of the benefits of Aloe Vera on their skin to aid with burns, but most do not know that you can consume Aloe Vera and see amazing benefits as well. That is why we also offer Aloe #1® Fresh Frozen Raw Aloe Vera Gel.