The jury is out on whether Bio-Oil is an effective treatment for seborrheic dermatitis. On one hand, it contains essential oils that have antifungal properties and studies proving it helps improve acne. On the other hand, Bio-Oil contains sunflower oil, soybean oil, synthetic fragrances and Vitamin A which may aggravate the condition.
Let’s take a deep dive:
What is Bio-Oil?
Bio-Oil is a popular brand of skin care product that has been used for years. The oil is easily absorbed by the skin and doesn’t clog pores. It’s even safe for pregnant women and lactating mothers and is recommended for sensitive skin.
Bio-Oil uses mineral oil, soybean oil, sunflower oil and other synthetic oils in combination with active compounds like retinoids, Vitamin E, chamomile, lavender, rosemary and calendula to moisturize the skin, heal scars, improve the appearance of stretch marks and smooth aging skin.
Is Bio-Oil antifungal?
The manufacturers of Bio-Oil make no claims on Bio-Oil’s antifungal activity. Others have suggested that the oil may have some antifungal properties as it contains lavender oil and rosemary oil that have some activity against fungi.
It’s possible that Bio-Oil may counteract Malassezia somewhat but I wouldn’t count on it.
Is Bio-Oil effective for treating seborrheic dermatitis?
Bio-Oil is a popular product that is often used to treat scars, stretch marks, and dehydrated skin. Some people with seborrheic dermatitis find that using Bio-Oil in combination with other treatments works for them. However, Bio-Oil cannot treat seborrheic dermatitis on its own.
Bio-Oil is not going to reduce the fungal load of your skin. The oil may improve acne. But it may also worsen your SD flare. While Bio-Oil contains essential oils like lavender oil and rosemary oil that is beneficial for SD, it also contains sunflower oil, soybean oil that feeds Malassezia.
The original Bio-Oil formula contains mineral oil. In a bid to make their oil more ‘natural’, they have a new product that takes out mineral oils and uses plant-based oils like jojoba oil instead. However, this ‘natural Bio-Oil’ still contains soybean oil and sunflower oil which can feed Malassezia.
Check it out on AmazonThe only role I can see for Bio-Oil in seborrheic dermatitis is if you’ve scratched so hard during an SD flare that you’re left with little scars on your face. In this case, it may be worth trying Bio-Oil to see if it can help your scars heal faster.
Benefits of using Bio-Oil
Bio-Oil has been around for a while and is known to have multiple benefits when it comes to skin care. One of the best things about the oil is that it can improve acne scars, even deep-seated ones like pockmarks and ice pick scars.
The oil also helps protect your skin from environmental damage, which can cause premature aging. Bio-Oil also helps improve skin health by reducing free radicals, so you can keep your skin looking radiant and healthy.
Another great benefit of using Bio-Oil is that it’s an anti-inflammatory. If you suffer from conditions like psoriasis or eczema, then using Bio-Oil may help relieve some of your symptoms. However, please note that Bio-Oil is not a replacement for medication prescribed by a doctor. It should only be used as an addition to your current treatment plan.
One more thing worth mentioning about Bio-Oil is that it’s a potent emollient. Emollients are substances that soften the skin and trap humectants and emollients onto the surface of the skin, providing long-lasting hydration. So if you’re someone who struggles with dry skin, Bio-Oil may be a good option for you.
Side effects of using Bio-Oil
Bio-Oil is safe for adults when used properly, including pregnant and lactating women. It’s even recommended for sensitive skin.
The main ingredients in Bio-Oil are PurCellin Oil, vitamin E, and rosemary oil. Rosemary oil is safe for topical use, but in high concentrations it can cause menstruation and labor. Bio-Oil has a low concentration of rosemary oil, so it’s safe to use topically even when you’re pregnant.
Even though Bio-oil is really easily absorbed and doesn’t leave a greasy feel, some people with oily skin may balk at the thought of introducing more oil to their skin. For these people, Bio-oil came up with a Bio-Oil gel.
Check it out on AmazonBecause Bio-oil contains quite a few different ingredients and also synthetic fragrances, it’s possible to experience an allergic reaction or skin irritation.
To wrap up
Bio-Oil is a good product and may help improve scars. However, there are only so many products you can put on your skin. There are many other creams and oils that can treat seborrheic dermatitis much more effectively.
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