Previously I wrote about Melatonin Lotion (ML) here:
https://www.earthclinic.com/supplements/melatonin-lotion.html
In several other posts I mentioned about using Melatonin Gel (MG) mainly for my face because Melatonin and Aloe Vera Gel are both very good for the skin. Aloe Vera Gel products generally have way less "extra ingredients" than the Cetaphil Lotion I use for the ML and now I consider that another plus for MG over ML. ML can not be used near the eyes because of all of those other ingredients in the Cetaphil lotion can cause blurry vision and burning in the eyes if you apply it to close to the eyes.
In another recent post I mentioned how a friend had found ML to be very effective for her hemorrhoids with fast relief of pain after applying as well as longer term shrinkage of the hemorrhoids.
I wrote that friend back to suggest that she use the MG instead of the ML for her hemorrhoids because the rectum can have high absorption characteristics for certain molecules and perhaps absorbing all of the other ingredients in Cetaphil may not be optimal for the person using it. I explained to her how to make the MG by doing the following:
1. Use a 3 oz. bottle with a flip top lid or similar for dispensing the finished gel.
2. Add 1 oz. of gin to the bottle.
3. Add 1/4 level baker's measuring teaspoon of melatonin powder to the bottle, replace the lid and shake the bottle until the melatonin is fully dissolved and then remove the lid.
4. Add two ounces of Aloe Vera Gel to the bottle, replace the lid and shake the bottle very well until the gel is well mixed. The gel is now ready for use.
Please note that I am only using one ounce of gin in this mix and two ounces of aloe vera to try and reduce the gin to the absolute minimum and allow for more of the skin beneficial effects that the aloe vera gel has to offer.
I have mainly been using this MG mix now because I can use it in all the same places that I used the ML as well as other areas such as the face and for hemorrhoids as well as other sensitive areas if ever needed and I find the MG at least as effective as the ML. I do not have to keep two bottles around any more and the MG also has a very modest scent that should be tolerable for most people, while having less "extra ingredients" than the ML, which is better for some people who prefer less ingredients.
Several articles and studies have suggested that Aloe Vera Gel itself is quite good for the skin as discussed here :
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6330525/#:~:text=Aloe vera gel can not, and thereby promote wound healing.&text=Scientific studies have shown that, of the gel is water.
Here is a relevant quote from the link :
Its regenerative properties are due to the compound glucomannan, which is rich with polysaccharides like mannose. Glucomannan affects fibroblast growth factor receptors and stimulates their activity and proliferation, which in turn increases the production of collagen. Aloe vera gel can not only increase the amount of collagen in wounds but also change the composition of collagen, increase collagen cross-linking and thereby promote wound healing.11 Scientific studies have shown that the gel can increase the flexibility and reduce the fragility of the skin since 99% of the gel is water.4 Additionally, mucopolysaccharides along with amino acids and zinc present in Aloe vera can lead to skin integrity, moisture retention, erythema reduction, and helps to prevent skin ulcers.12 Several studies have shown the positive effects of Aloe vera to treat wounds such as psoriasis, mouth sores, ulcers, diabetes, herpes, bedsores, and burn wounds.1, 4, 6, 13-15 Aloe vera is known for its anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory, skin protection, anti-diabetic, anti-bacterial, anti-viral, antiseptic, and wound healing properties.6
Melatonin is also quite protective of the skin as discussed here :
https://jddonline.com/articles/assessing-the-potential-role-for-topical-melatonin-in-an-antiaging-skin-regimen-S1545961618P0966X/
Here is a relevant quote from the link :
However, over the last two decades, research has elucidated a range of effects associated with the compound, including anti-inflammatory, both direct and indirect antioxidant activity, tissue regenerative benefits, and preservation of mitochondrial function. Melatonin’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant support, coupled with its mitochondrial support, make it an intriguing target for use to support skin health. Human skin and hair follicles express functional melatonin receptors. They also engage in substantial melatonin synthesis. By supporting cutaneous homeostasis, melatonin and its metabolites are thought to attenuate carcinogenesis and possibly other pathological processes, including hyperproliferative/inflammatory conditions. The primary extrinsic driver of aging has been considered to be exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, which is well-established to contribute to sunburn, immunosuppression, skin aging, and carcinogenesis. Topically applied melatonin has been shown to reduce markers of reactive oxygen species formation and to reverse signs of skin aging. As the global population continues to age, photo-damage remains a significant cutaneous concern. While use of sunscreens and UV avoidance strategies are essential to mitigate skin cancer risks, the potential to protect the skin and improve the appearance of photo-damage through the use of topical antioxidant support is appealing. The evidence suggests that melatonin deserves consideration for topical use as an anti-aging and skin protective agent. It is shown to be both safe and effective when topically applied. J Drugs Dermatol. 2018;17(8):966-969.
If anyone decides to try this newer Melatonin Gel, please send your feedback! Even better if you have already tried the melatonin lotion and have a basis for comparison.
Art
Related Links:
Melatonin Lotion for Pain Relief: Recipe + Success Stories
Top 10 Benefits of Melatoni: Sleep, Immunity, Heart Health & More
