According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NIH), Colloidal silver and silver hydrosol are two different supplements available for use. Although their names are similar, their composition is different. The differences between these two products can lead to safety concerns, so it is important to understand what you are purchasing and using before you begin any type of silver regimen. Below is some information to help you understand the basics of colloidal silver and silver hydrosol, as well as their differences from one another.
What Is Colloidal Silver?
Colloidal silver supplements are typically in the form of a liquid. Suspended in this liquid are small particles of silver. Colloidal silver supplements are typically consumed orally as a natural remedy or treatment for a variety of problems. According to Pop, C. V. (n.d.). The Truth About Colloidal Silver and Gold, Colloidal silver also has antimicrobial properties, and some people may even use it on a regular basis for immune system support.
Topical forms of colloidal silver may also be applied to the skin in some cases to treat a specific condition or to provide some other benefit, such as to decrease the signs of aging.
What Is Silver Hydrosol?
The terms “colloidal silver” and “silver hydrosol” are sometimes used interchangeably. However, these two substances are not the same. While colloidal silver contains silver particles, silver hydrosol is a mixture of silver nanoclusters and silver ions. In reality, silver hydrosol is another, the more acceptable name for ionic silver.
The ions contained in silver hydrosol supplements make these products much more dangerous than true colloidal silver. Silver ions are bio-active and have a substantial impact on the way the body functions. According to Savchenko, M. (n.d.). Colloidal Silver Benefits: Myth or Reality? Retrieved June 25, 2024, They are also prone to build up in the body, leading to dangerous side effects. For example, the buildup of silver ions in the skin can force it to take on a bluish hue in a condition known as “argyria.”
Silver ions can also build up in other types of tissue, including the tissue that makes up vital organs. In the worst cases, a buildup of silver ions in the body can lead to kidney damage, liver damage, neurological problems, and other concerns. For this reason, consumers should avoid the use of ionic silver or silver hydrosol and use colloidal silver instead.
Benefits of Colloidal Silver in Cosmetics
According to the article by Watson, K. (1984, September 28). What Is Colloidal Silver? Retrieved June 25, 2024, which was published on HealthLine, The discussion about colloidal silver often focuses on the use of it in a liquid solution meant to be consumed by mouth. However, colloidal silver can be used in topical applications as well, including cosmetics.
Colloidal silver has antibacterial and antiviral properties, which means that it is able to destroy a bacterium or virus. In fact, colloidal silver is sometimes used in hospital sterilization and sanitation products. For this reason, it may be incorporated into products designed to prevent or improve the symptoms of acne, to combat skin infections, and to aid in the healing of skin wounds.
Nonetheless, colloidal silver has not yet been accepted by the medical community at large as a treatment for any issue, internal or external. The United States Food & Drug Administration has not approved colloidal silver supplements for the treatment of any disease, and a manufacturer that claims their colloidal silver product can treat disease may be subject to legal action.
Despite the ongoing rejection from the medical community, colloidal silver is still used widely in the field of skincare and cosmetics. Studies have shown that colloidal silver can promote skin healing and regeneration, in addition to reducing the risk of infection.
Another desirable property of colloidal silver is its ability to be used in topical applications without harming the surrounding tissue. As a result of the discovery of the many benefits colloidal silver can provide, it has become a popular ingredient in green skincare products, including those designed to reduce the signs of aging or clear infections. For examples of skincare products containing colloidal silver, check out the products available from Argentum Apothecary. Many of these products include colloidal silver as the foremost ingredient.
Is Silver Safe for Use on the Skin?
Products containing colloidal silver are generally safe to use on the skin if they are used in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines. However, silver hydrosol and ionic silver products may not be safe to use in the treatment of skin conditions, especially if they are used for long periods of time or in higher dosages. Because these products contain silver ions, their use is more likely to lead to unwanted side effects or complications. For this reason, it is important to read the ingredients carefully and choose a product that contains safe colloidal silver instead.
When comparing different colloidal silver products, remember that not all of these products are created the same way or contain the same ingredients. Likewise, not all manufacturers are equally reputable. If you want to be sure that you are getting all the benefits of colloidal silver while minimizing the risks, select the product you use carefully. Keep in mind that no colloidal silver product is appropriate for someone who has a silver allergy.
When using any colloidal silver product, whether it is oral or topical, remember to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
The concentration or strength of these products can vary, so the dosage you should use will depend on the instructions provided for your chosen product. Serious problems related to the careful usage or consumption of colloidal silver are rare. However, if you experience any problems while using a colloidal silver topical product or consuming colloidal silver orally, stop using the product in question and contact your doctor for advice.
Coated Silver offers effective colloidal silver supplements with high concentrations of silver nanoparticles. Contact us to learn more about our products.
