News and Curiosity
Ichthyol: uses and benefits
What is Ichthyol?
Ichthyol, also known as ichthammol or ammonium bituminosulfonate, is a mineral tar, meaning it is a naturally occurring substance. It is primarily used in dermatology due to its strong antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and keratolytic properties. It is a complex substance derived from the distillation of bituminous shales, which are rich in fossil remains of fish and other marine organisms. Its main components include organic sulfonates, sulfur and essential oils. The sulfur, of which ichthyol is rich, plays a key role in its antibacterial and keratolytic properties.What is Ichthyol used for?
Ichthyol is mainly used to treat various skin conditions, thanks to its anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and keratolytic properties. It is used in situations where reducing inflammation and speeding up skin healing is necessary, especially in cases of mild, localized infections or skin lesions. Due to its skin-friendly properties, it is also commonly used by athletes to treat inflammatory and infectious skin conditions. However, it is important to note that ichthyol is not specifically intended for muscle recovery and support, nor for the direct treatment of sports injuries such as strains or bruises. Its action is strictly related to skin treatment.When and how to use Ichthyol
Ichthyol is available in the form of creams or ointments, or in bandages combined with zinc oxide for sensitive skin, which are easy and comfortable to remove. Ichthyol cream is easy and quick to apply: simply spread the product on the affected area and cover it with gauze or a bandage to prevent staining clothes and to allow the product to be more effectively absorbed. It is generally recommended to apply it 2-3 times a day, allowing ichthyol to work for several hours. This product is useful for reducing swelling and inflammation in cases of boils, skin abscesses, sebaceous cysts, nail infections, blisters, or minor skin infections.The benefits of Ichthyol
The benefits of this cream are numerous, making it useful not only in sports but also in the cosmetic field. It can be used to treat a variety of skin conditions, such as acne, boils, dermatitis, psoriasis and eczema. Thanks to its composition, it can promote the maturation of boils or abscesses, helping them burst and drain the pus, which can cause pain and discomfort. Among the benefits of ichthyol, which are particularly useful for athletes and physically active individuals, are:- Treatment of boils or skin infections: Athletes often develop boils or minor skin infections caused by friction, sweating, or micro-traumas. In this case, ichthyol can help drain the pus and reduce inflammation.
- Blisters or foot infections: Sports like running, soccer, and tennis put significant stress on the feet, making them prone to blisters or nail injuries. Ichthyol can be an ideal solution for these kinds of discomforts and injuries.
- Inflammation or minor skin injuries: Ichthyol is useful for those who practice contact sports (like martial arts or rugby, for example). Thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, it is perfect for treating minor skin injuries and preventing potential infections.