Synthetic or natural skin moisturizer?

The skin is the largest organ that we have and yet we may take for granted everything that it protects us from and how we treat our skin. For starters, the skin is the first organ in line of defense against all environmental factors. Secondly, the epidermis, the outer layer and most superficial part of the skin is very good at absorption! That's right, the skin is absorptive meaning it will draw in whatever element we place or fall on our skin. Additionally, other functions of the skin are:

• Provides a protective barrier against mechanical, thermal and physical injury and hazardous substances.

• Prevents loss of moisture.

• Reduces harmful effects of UV radiation.

• Acts as a sensory organ (touch, detects temperature).

• Helps regulate temperature.

• An immune organ to detect infections etc.

• Production of vitamin D.

So why cheap out when it comes down to our skin? Why do we negate the fact the skin is one of the most important organs of the human body?

Motion Medicine is one such natural topical pain remedy that was made and produced in Canada. With so many avaialble in the market, how do we know which one is best for us? The answer may be in the ingredient list, lets investigate...

Motion Medicine is a topical analgesic made from a blend of natural ingredients. It relieves joint pain and helps heal sprains, bruises, and muscles. It is good for after a workout, to relieve arthritis, heal sprains and relax the muscles. The natural ingredients in Motion Medicine accomplish this with antioxidants, local topical anesthetics, muscle relaxants, circulation enhancers, skin conditioners, cartilage/tissue/muscle repairers and inflammation fighters. 

These ingredients, when applied directly to the skin, provide instant relief and can prevent/relieve muscle pain. Motion medicine combines active ingredients with carrier ingredients which “carry” the active medical ingredients where they need to go.

The first listed ingredient is 4% camphor. Traditionally, this is made from distilling the bark and wood of the camphor tree. Nowadays, it is usually made with turpentine oil. Camphor has anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and antifungal properties. It works by stimulating the nerve endings to relieve pain and itching. Its anti-inflammatory and muscle relaxant properties can relieve muscle cramps, arthritis, and help heal muscles. 

These chemicals naturally reside in the cartilage and other connective tissue in the body. They help protect the joints and are often used to treat arthritis.

Thymol is derived from Thyme, the cooking spice. It has been used for centuries for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antispasmodic, antibacterial, antifungal, antiseptic and antitumor properties. Thus, thymol helps reduce pain from inflammation and ensure sanitation.  

(Methylsulfonylmethane) Found in animals, plants and humans, it is generally used as an anti-inflammatory. It also acts as an antioxidant. 

One non-medical ingredient is Caprylyl Glycol. It is an alcohol from caprylic acid, which is a natural component of coconut oil, and palm kernel oil. It comes from a fatty-acid, so it does not dry the skin. While this extends the shelf life of Motion Medicine, it also is good for your skin as it moisturizes the skin by retaining water and fighting off bacteria.

If you go back to high-school chemistry, you may remember the word amphiphilic. Caprylyl glycol is an amphiphilic. This means that one side of the molecule binds to water, and the other side binds to fat. This emulsifies the water and the fat parts of Motion Medicine to create a smooth cream that is easy to spread. Caprylyl is used in Motion Medicine to extend shelf life, create a pleasing texture, and moisturize the skin. 

Moving through the ingredients, we see eucalyptus oil. Eucalyptus fights inflammation, relaxes and it promotes healing. It is high in antioxidants, especially flavonoids, which helps fight free radicals and, therefore, has anti-aging properties. Eucalyptus also may help your skin retain moisture. 

Grape seed oil is a byproduct of winemaking. It also has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant properties. Furthermore, it contains high amounts of vitamin E, another good ingredient for your skin. Grapeseed oil improves the skin’s moisture, elasticity and softness.

Lavender oil, known to aid relaxation, also fights inflammation and contains antioxidants. A 2013 study suggests that lavender helps heal wounds.

Menthols is made from mint oil and is commonly used to relieve arthritis, sprains, joint pain, backache and bruises. It does this by making the skin feel cool, then warm. This helps relieve deeper pains. Menthol dilates arterioles to improve circulation.