Down to Earth | ASCP Skin Deep Magazine

Down to Earth

Diatomaceous earth helps reduce the signs of aging, inflammation, acne, and more by Lauren

Diatomaceous earth is a naturally occurring substance found buried in the earth that has long been used in hundreds of products from organic gardening and pest control to odor control, dental care, and skin care—and even as a stabilizing component of dynamite! In 1867, Swedish chemist Alfred Nobel sought to stabilize nitroglycerin (an explosive) and discovered diatomaceous earth. He found that the addition of diatomaceous earth allowed nitroglycerin to be made into a paste that was then placed in cylinder-shaped sticks (dynamite) to aid in mining operations.

FOSSILIZED ALGAE

Millions of years ago, microscopic singlecelled organisms called diatoms lived in places where lakes and water once covered the earth. These tiny algae species eventually died, and their skeletal remains were left encapsulated in the ground, leaving fossilized algae. Because the cells of these algae were high in a compound called silica, the dried sediment produced from these fossils is also exceedingly high in silica.1

There are several versions of diatomaceous earth reserved for various uses; however, the food-grade version is mined from freshwater deposits. This “clean” version is the type that is used in skin care products and other consumables and contains 80–90 percent silica, a highly valuable mineral to the human body.

EMBRACE THE EXFOLIANT

One of the best uses of diatomaceous earth in personal care is as a mild exfoliant. It has been used in toothpaste and facial scrubs because of its powdery, light texture that blends easily with other additives and gently buffs away dead skin cells without harming the skin.

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For topical use, diatomaceous earth powder proves to be gentle and high in mineral content to help deliver essential nutrients to the skin, including silica, calcium, iron, sodium, and magnesium.

expert advice

INGREDIENTS

At first glance, diatomaceous earth can look like clay, and it has often been compared to talc powder for its texture. The topical use of diatomaceous earth powder proves to be gentle and high in mineral content that helps deliver essential nutrients to the skin, including silica, calcium, iron, sodium, and magnesium.

THE GLUE THAT HOLDS US TOGETHER

Silica is the third-most abundant trace element in the human body after iron and zinc, and is strongly linked with healthy, youthful skin, as it is essential for collagen production. As a necessary mineral component in collagen production, silica helps create protein molecule bonds, which aid in water retention, cell renewal, and repair. Without silica, collagen would not form. Our bodies need collagen to move and remain active but also to have beautiful, plump skin. Silica sits inside collagen, acting as the intracellular glue to provide strength and resilience to the connective tissues, including in the face.

DIY Diatomaceous Earth Mask

To make your own mask:

• Add 1–2 tablespoons of diatomaceous earth to water, milk, or aloe vera gel.

• Stir thoroughly to make a thick paste, about the consistency of toothpaste.

• Apply to the skin with fingertips, lightly massaging the mixture into the skin using small, circular motions until completely applied.

• Allow the paste to remain on the skin for 5–10 minutes before removing it with a warm washcloth.

• Follow up with an appropriate moisturizer and sunscreen, if necessary.

As we age, collagen production, silica content, and the cellular turnover process declines. These factors increase the appearance of aging, and we start to see more dehydrated, saggy, and dull skin. To avoid the appearance of aging, it is crucial to supplement the body with the nutrients it lacks. This way, beautiful, healthy skin can continue far into later adult years.

BENEFITS

When used topically, diatomaceous earth has anti-inflammatory properties, which assist in skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and acne. When taken internally, benefits include hair growth, nail strength, and additional collagen production. Diatomaceous earth is also said to help flush toxins and heavy metals from the body, as well as promote healthier bones and joints.

Fortunately, incorporating diatomaceous earth into a skin care routine can be as easy as purchasing a food-grade bag and mixing it with water to make a paste for a scrub, or ingesting 1–2 tablespoons daily by adding it to a smoothie or yogurt. Many experts argue that consuming diatomaceous earth in powder form, as opposed to taking a silica supplement, is more effective. However, consulting a physician or qualified health-care professional is always recommended before ingesting anything new.

Note

1. Web MD, “Diatomaceous Earth: Overview Information,” accessed August 2020, www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1531/ diatomaceous-earth.