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Kratom Skincare: Can This Herbal Supplement Transform Your Skin’s Health?
Oct
Kratom has become increasingly popular in recent years for its many purported health benefits. Derived from the leaves of a tropical Southeast Asian tree, kratom contains a variety of natural compounds that interact with receptors in the brain to produce stimulant and pain-relieving effects.
Lately, some have even begun exploring uses of kratom for skin and beauty care. But can this botanical supplement really improve the health and appearance of skin? Let’s take an in-depth look at the emerging trend of kratom skincare.
What is kratom?
Kratom refers to the dried, crushed leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa tree, a plant in the coffee family that grows naturally in parts of Southeast Asia. Indigenous groups in these regions have used kratom leaves and teas in traditional medicine for centuries. In recent decades, kratom powder and supplements have become more widely available around the world.
The leaves of the kratom tree contain a variety of active compounds, including alkaloids like mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. These kratom alkaloids are thought to interact with opioid receptors in the brain, providing pain relief, mood enhancement, and stimulant effects. The balance of stimulating and sedative effects depends on the particular strain and dosage.
Kratom leaves are usually crushed into a fine powder and ingested orally. They can also be brewed into tea, incorporated into capsules, tablets, candies, and even used to make kratom extracts. It has become a popular herbal supplement due to its many touted benefits.
Kratom’s positive effects on the skin
In recent years, some have begun exploring the use of kratom as a natural skincare ingredient. This is based on the premise that if kratom can produce positive effects when ingested, perhaps it can also improve skin health when applied topically.
Proponents of kratom skincare claim that the botanical’s natural compounds may help protect, smooth, and rejuvenate skin in various ways. However, research on kratom’s topical skin benefits is sparse. Most evidence is anecdotal at this point. But there are some theoretical ways kratom compounds could positively interact with skin:
- Antioxidant effects to reduce signs of aging
- Anti-inflammatory properties to soothe skin
- Improved circulation for healthier skin
- Hydration of skin by locking in moisture
- Antimicrobial benefits to fight acne
- Calming effects to reduce redness
So while still unproven, there is a logic behind why applying kratom topically could potentially improve skin’s appearance and feel. Much more research is needed, but initial user reports seem promising.
BENEFITS OF KRATOM ON THE SKIN
Based on limited existing evidence and user experiences, some of the possible benefits of using kratom for skin care include:
- Reducing acne, pimples, and problem skin areas
- Minimizing fine lines, wrinkles, and signs of aging
- Decreasing red, irritated, and inflamed skin
- Soothing painful skin ailments like psoriasis
- Tightening, toning, and smoothing sagging skin
- Moisturizing and hydrating for softer skin
- Protecting against sun damage from UV rays
- Neutralizing harmful free radicals that age skin
- Promoting faster healing of cuts, burns, and scars
- Regulating excess sebum and oil production
- Achieving an even, radiant skin tone and glow
Again, these benefits are mostly theoretical and anecdotal at this point according to online reviews. But some of the purported antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects of kratom could plausibly aid skin health and appearance when applied topically.
How to use kratom to improve skin health
If you’re interested in a natural skincare boost from kratom, here are some ways you can try using it:
Combine it with essential oils
Mix kratom powder into skin-healthy carrier oils like coconut, olive or jojoba along with nourishing essential oils like lavender, tea tree, or geranium. Apply this healing balm to moisturize and rejuvenate skin. The oils will help draw out the botanical’s beneficial compounds.
Apply it topically with creams
Look for kratom-infused skincare creams or make your own by blending kratom powder into your favorite all-natural moisturizer. Use daily to improve skin’s texture and appearance.
Use a kratom soap bar
Kratom soap bars allow you to cleanse and treat your skin at the same time. Lathering with soap infused with kratom extract may help reduce acne, inflammation, and other imperfections.
Apply a kratom body lotion
Massage sore muscles while also moisturizing with an enriched body lotion containing kratom’s natural oils. This helps hydrate while also delivering botanical compounds.
Use kratom bath bombs
Relax in a warm bath enhanced with bath bombs or bath salts infused with kratom extract or powder. The botanicals will be absorbed into the skin for maximum medicinal effects.
Use a face wash
Cleanse your face daily with a gentle kratom-enriched facial wash. This may help control acne breakouts, soothe irritation, and brighten dull complexions for a glowing effect.
Be sure to test any new skincare regimen on a small patch of skin first to check for possible allergic reactions. And discuss your interest in kratom skincare with your dermatologist. More clinical research is still needed, but many find kratom’s botanical benefits are helpful additions to their skincare routine.
WILL KRATOM SHOW UP ON A DRUG TEST?
One common concern people have about using kratom skincare products is whether topical application could lead to a positive drug test. This is a legitimate worry for those who face certain drug testing situations such as parolees, military members, and some healthcare workers.
The short answer is that topical use of pure kratom generally will not cause someone to fail a drug test. Drug tests like SAMHSA-5 panel and newer urine tests are looking for the ingestion of kratom and the presence of its alkaloids in your bloodstream, which will not occur with prudent surface application.
- However, it’s important to keep a few factors in mind:
- Avoid very old or questionable kratom products that could be contaminated.
- Don’t apply kratom balms immediately before a drug test.
- Never use a kratom product internally right before a drug screening.
- Watch for allergic reactions that damage skin barrier.
- Discuss concerns with your employer’s HR department beforehand.
As long as you use pure, quality kratom products strictly topically and responsibly, it should not impact passing a drug test for employment, probation, or other screened programs. But when in doubt, consult the testing organization.
The Emergence of Kratom Beauty Products
Riding the wave of kratom’s surging popularity in recent years, an array of boutique beauty and skincare companies have begun offering specialty cosmetics incorporating kratom extract or powder.
For example, companies like Kay Botanicals, Tropic Health Club, and Soulful Botanicals are producing artisanal soaps, lotions, balms, bath products, facial creams, and masks infused with kratom. These build on the ethnobotanical traditions of Southeast Asian cultures using kratom for natural healing.
Major mainstream beauty brands have yet to embrace kratom, but numerous independent natural skincare outfits are pioneering this intriguing new application of kratom’s botanical benefits. Their extensive product lines cater to the growing fascination with kratom’s potential skincare advantages.
However, it’s important to vet any new kratom beauty brand thoroughly and understand there is minimal regulation or scientific research on these products so far. User reviews and third party lab certificates can help identify quality, legitimate kratom cosmetics versus poorly made or adulterated ones.
Does Topical Kratom Work? The Quick-And-Dirty On Kratom Skincare
The skincare market is filled with many exaggerated claims and miracle products that fail to live up to their promises. So is applying kratom topically actually effective for improving skin, or is it all hype? Here’s a quick rundown of key points:
- Some scientific evidence supports kratom’s antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects when consumed orally. It’s plausible similar benefits manifest when applied to skin. But research specifically on topical use is lacking so far.
- Many users report positive personal experiences from kratom skincare products like reduced acne, smoother texture, improved tone, and quicker healing. But reviews are subjective and anecdotal.
- Factors like product purity, quality, concentration and correct usage impact results. Shoddy, diluted products containing little actual kratom are less effective.
- As with any new skincare product, individuals can have varying results and skin reactions based on sensitivities, allergies, and other biochemistry. Caution is warranted.
- Overall the topical kratom skincare trend shows initial promise, but remains unproven pending further research. The waters are murky with lots of overzealous marketing claims. Avoid unrealistic expectations.
So while the jury is still out based on limited scientific data so far, many find adding kratom botanicals to their skincare routine beneficial. But approach new kratom beauty products realistically, do your homework on sourcing and quality, and monitor your skin’s reactions.
Final Thought
The emerging world of kratom skincare products offers an intriguing new way to harness the potential benefits of this botanical supplement. Early results seem promising, but research is sparse so far.
As with any new skincare ingredient, exercise reasonable caution. Seek high quality, pure products and monitor your skin closely for any negative reactions.
While not a magic bullet for perfect skin, kratom may be a beneficial addition to a healthy skincare regimen for some. But consult your dermatologist to see if it’s right for your needs.
FAQS
Q: Can kratom lotion make you fail a drug test?
A: Topically applied pure kratom products from reputable brands should not cause a failed drug test. But discuss any concerns with your employer. Avoid old or contaminated products.
Q: Does kratom tighten loose, sagging skin?
A: Anecdotal reports indicate kratom may temporarily firm and tighten skin when applied topically. But dramatic lifting of sagging skin is unrealistic. Manage expectations.
Q: Is kratom soap good for back acne?
A: The antimicrobial properties of kratom may help combat the bacteria that causes back acne for some people. But results will vary. Monitor skin closely when trying any new product.
Q: Can you be allergic to topical kratom?
A: Yes, allergies or skin sensitivities are possible with kratom just like any substance. Do a patch test before wider use. Stop immediately if any irritation develops.
Q: How often can you use kratom lotion safely?
A: There are no usage guidelines, but once or twice daily is sufficient for most people. Monitor skin closely and take breaks if any irritation manifests. As always, discuss options with your dermatologist.
