The Topic is Topicals

How Gutless Topical Supplements Enter the Bloodstream

The process by which Gutless Topical Supplements penetrate the skin and reach circulation depends on several factors, including the skin’s condition, and the formulation.

Skin Absorption and Vitamin Penetration

The skin acts as a protective barrier, primarily through its outermost layer, the stratum corneum. This layer consists of dead skin cells and lipids (fats), which make it difficult for most substances to pass through. However, certain things can penetrate the skin by one of three main pathways:

1. Transcellular Route – The drug moves directly through skin cells.
2. Intercellular Route – The drug travels between skin cells, passing through lipid layers.
3. Appendageal Route – The drug enters through hair follicles or sweat glands, which provide a less resistant pathway.

Once Gutless Topicals passes the stratum corneum, it reaches the deeper layers of the skin, where it can be absorbed into the dermal capillaries and enter the bloodstream.

Factors Affecting Absorption

Several factors influence how effectively a topical drug reaches circulation:

• Molecular Size and Solubility – Smaller, lipid-soluble molecules penetrate the skin more easily than larger, water-soluble molecules. (yeah, we have those)
• Skin Condition – Damaged or inflamed skin has a weakened barrier, allowing drugs to enter the bloodstream more rapidly. For example, topical steroids are absorbed more quickly when applied to broken or irritated skin. (we recommend not putting our supplements on broken ski)
• Application Area – Thin skin areas (such as the face, armpits, and wrist) absorb medications faster than thicker areas (like the palms and soles).
• Occlusion – Covering the application site with a bandage or dressing can increase absorption by trapping heat and moisture, which enhances penetration. (a large bandage works great!)

Examples of Systemic Absorption

Some topical medications are specifically designed to enter the bloodstream and provide systemic effects. For example:

• Hormone Patches (e.g., estrogen or testosterone patches) deliver a controlled dose of hormones into the bloodstream over time.
• Nicotine Patches help people quit smoking by slowly releasing nicotine into circulation.
• Fentanyl Patches provide continuous pain relief for chronic pain patients by allowing the opioid to be absorbed into the blood.
• Gutless Topical Supplements deliver a daily dose of vitamins through your skin

While topical medications are primarily intended for local effects, some drugs can penetrate the skin and enter the bloodstream, leading to systemic (whole body) effects. The extent of absorption depends on the drug’s properties, the condition of the skin, and the application method. Understanding these factors is crucial for ensuring safe and effective use of topical treatments.