There exists another ingredient used in skincare products that is not as widely known yet incredibly useful for controlling the growth of bacteria on the skin, which is one of the leading causes of acne. Colloidal silver releases silver ions, disrupting the activity of bacteria responsible for acne and preventing new infections from occurring.
From a biological perspective, silver ions interact with the cell membrane of bacteria and their enzymes, interfering with essential processes in the cells. As a result, it becomes difficult for the bacteria to thrive on the skin, ensuring a much healthier and acne-free environment. This product will undoubtedly benefit those who are predisposed to acne.
Contrary to the most common ingredients in skin care products that work by exfoliation and unclogging pores, this ingredient interacts with the microbial environment of the skin, disrupting the development of acne-causing bacteria.
What is colloidal silver?
Colloidal silver is a suspension of very tiny particles of silver in a fluid carrier, normally water. For skincare, it is applied in stable and controlled concentrations to offer antibacterial assistance, particularly to individuals suffering from acne prone skin.
The particle size of colloidal silver is such that it can be evenly dispersed throughout the composition and hence comes into contact with the skin surface. For skincare applications, colloidal silver is not expected to deeply penetrate the skin layer. Its action should mainly be limited to the surface of the skin where the acne causing bacteria thrive. It acts by maintaining a clean environment for the skin without interfering with its protective mechanism.
Due to the above properties, colloidal silver is usually an ideal ingredient for inclusion in formulations that are targeted at treating acne prone and sensitive skins. It can also be incorporated in spot treatment formulations since such formulations are designed to remain in the skin surface.
How Colloidal Silver Works on Skin?
The image below explains how colloidal silver works on your skin, effectively eliminating bacteria the skin.
Who Should Use Colloidal Silver?
- People with active acne or inflamed breakouts on skin.
- People experiencing stubborn recurring acne.
- People with acne prone oily skin.
- People who have sensitive skin.
- People who cannot tolerate harsh actives.
How to include colloidal silver in your skincare routine?
Cleanse: Wash off all the dirt, oil and impurities with a cleanser suitable to your skin type to prepare your skin for better absorption of active ingredients.
(You can use Lely’s cleansing face wash)
Treat: You can apply a serum that helps manage oil.
Target: For active acne, use a spot treatment to help address breakouts directly.
Colloidal silver helps reduce bacterial activity on the skin, which supports faster healing of acne when applied on targeted areas.
(You can use Lely’s spot treatment gel)
Moisturise: Follow up with a moisturiser to ensure that hydration is locked and the skin barrier remains protected.
Protect: Do not skip sunscreen the next morning to protect your skin from sun damage and pigmentation.
Conclusion
Colloidal silver is a supportive ingredient for people with acne prone skin that works by targeting the bacterial activity on the skin thus reducing not only acne but also inflammation. It ensures improvement in skin’s microbial environment which plays a key role in reducing breakouts.
When colloidal silver is used as a part of a balanced routine with a combination of ingredients like niacinamide and salicylic acid, it works even more effectively to treat stubborn acne. If used consistently and with the right ingredients, it does ensure a clearer, calmer and healthy looking skin.
You can explore Lely’s acne range here to know more about how we use effective ingredients to help prevent acne.
FAQS
Does colloidal silver treat acne?
Yes, it works by killing the acne-causing bacteria on the skin, and that will reduce the swelling and inflammation while improving the healing process.
Can I use colloidal silver daily?
Yes, especially if it is formulated appropriately, you can use it on your face or other areas of concern.
Is colloidal silver okay for sensitive skin?
Since colloidal silver works topically, it is considered gentle and therefore can work fine for people who have sensitive or acne-prone skin.
Can I use it with salicylic acid?
Yes, they work very well together because salicylic acid unclogs the pores and colloidal silver stops bacteria growth.
How long does colloidal silver take to work?
Results will vary, however, you should expect some changes within a couple of days.
