Blair Medical Group
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"...I felt the topical application provided relief to sore and tight muscles. I also liked the smell of the product when applied topically. Much better than 'Ben-Gay.' Improved recovery."
– Todd
Skin Health & BCPlus Topical DMAE Gel
Our skin is a big deal – literally.
It’s the largest organ in the body and one of the most complicated. It has many roles in the maintenance of life and health, but also has many potential problems.
The skin is unique in many ways, but no other organ demands so much attention and concern in both states of disease and health. There is a huge focus on skin health, with fierce competition to have glowing, clearer, healthier, younger and fresher skin. Who doesn’t want these effects, yet this focus can cause secondary problems with self-esteem and mental health.
There are many options for skincare formulations for the improvement of aging skin, treatment of skin conditions, and reduction of lines & wrinkles. Quality, consistency, and ease of use are increasingly important when choosing consumer products.
We’ve created a synergistic blend of intentionally curated ingredients to support skin health and healing. Let’s dig into the methodology and the magic involved in BCPlus Topical Gel!
Understanding Your Skin
The structure of the skin is divided into three layers known as the epidermis, dermis and hypodermis (subcutaneous layer). These layers are well defined but together they allow the skin to function effectively.
The epidermis is the outermost, cellular layer of the skin which varies in thickness depending on the body site. The epidermis resembles a “brick wall” of cells known as keratinocytes, which are bound tightly together and act to prevent free movement of moisture, pathogens and chemicals into or out of the body. The epidermal layer also develop contains hair follicles, sweat glands and sebaceous (oil) glands which extend down into the dermis layer below. known as the dermis. The small ducts from each of these glands open up onto the skin surface. Sweat and sebum (oil) provide an antibacterial and protective barrier on the skin.
The dermis lies beneath the epidermis and is 20-30 times thicker. It’s made up of a dense layer of fibrous (collagen) and elastic (elastin) tissue. The dermis gives the skin its integrity, strength and elasticity. It also houses blood vessels, glands and hair follicles, as well as nerves and their receptors.
Beneath the dermis lies the subcutis (also known as the hypodermis), a specialized layer of adipose (fat) and fibrous tissue. The thickness of this layer varies dramatically depending on the site and a person’s body shape and weight. It cushions the body from external trauma, insulates from the cold and stores energy (fat). Cellulite is formed in this layer.
Medical experts have identified more than 3,000 possible skin disorders. Some of the more common conditions are:
•Thinning skin: Most common in older adults
•Stretch marks & scars: Pregnancy, weight gain, growth spurts, injuries
•Rashes: Skin irritation or medical conditions
•Dermatitis: Inflammation of the skin
•Eczema: Chronic inflammation and patchy thickening of the skin
•Psoriasis: Autoimmune condition that causes a variety of rashes
•Hives: Raised itchy patches, usually from an allergy
Solution to skin conditions
Our 91% BCPlus Topical Oil has been proven effective in most of the previously listed skin conditions consistently over the past 8 years of customer use. However, I found that I was mixing it into my existing skin care routine to cut reduce the intensity. When this topic came up in conversation with Dr. Blair, we agreed that a more gentle & and readily absorbing product could make the product easier to use for many people.
During our research of formulations, we tested several options for delivery of ingredients and absorption. We were looking for a complementary base that we could add the BCP oil to, to enhance and supercharge BCP’s effect.
It was during an evening facial care routine that the idea of using DMAE (also known as dimethylaminoethanol, dimethylethanolamine, or Deanol) with BCP was born. My eye serum product has this amazing ingredient, DMAE. I wondered if it could be made into a gel… and it already was! Let the testing commence!
What is DMAE?
Deanol or 2-dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE) is a relatively new skin-care ingredient that is gaining popularity as an anti-wrinkle and skin-firming agent (hence my eye serum). The molecular structure is an analog (similar structure) of the B vitamin choline.
DMAE is naturally produced by the body and is also found in high concentrations in fatty fish: salmon, anchovies and sardines. It is believed to contribute to the beneficial effects of these foods.
DMAE is thought to work by increasing production of acetylcholine ACH, which helps regulate many functions controlled by the brain, including REM sleep, muscle contractions, and pain responses. It is also a neurotransmitter that’s crucial for helping nerve cells send signals.
Studies show that DMAE decreases the extent of protein crosslinking, a characteristic of cellular aging. Researchers hypothesize that DMAE is able to reduce cross-linking by acting as a free-radical scavenger.
The benefits of DMAE in dermatology include a potential anti-inflammatory effect and a documented increase in skin firmness with possible improvement in underlying facial muscle tone. The acute skin-firming effects of DMAE have been confirmed by quantitative measures of cutaneous tensile strength (the skin’s ability to withstand a pulling force or resistance to a tear).
Mixing in Terpenes for added benefit
Humulene, formerly classified as α-caryophyllene, is a sesquiterpene named after Humulus lupulus, commonly known as the hops plant used in brewing. Hops and cannabis are both in the taxonomic family Cannabaceae, and humulene plays a big role in providing the same aromatic notes to both species of plants.
Humulene shares the same chemical formula as its close relative, β-caryophyllene, however, the two sesquiterpenes have slightly different molecular structures. Many of the same plants containing β-caryophyllene—such as basil, sage, and clove—also contain humulene, and the two have very similar aromas.
Humulene is also no stranger to modern biomedical research, including studies on black pepper, hops, and ginseng. Research has proven it to be an effective anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and appetite suppressant.
Terpineol and alpha terpineol are currently being studied for their potential antioxidant, antiulcer and antihypertensive applications. Other observed therapeutic benefits include antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, antimalarial and anti-tumoral activity or effects, as well as having strong antifungal and insecticidal activity, and it was not shown to cause oxidative stress. Researchers have declared that α-terpineol has high antioxidant and antinociceptive (inhibits the sensation of pain) potential.
Because of its composition, alpha terpineol is also noted for its ability to increase skin penetration, making it a viable ingredient for use in topical mosquito repellents, localized non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) that are commonly used in sport creams, recovery balms and even gel-based deodorants.
Terpenes are fascinating organic compounds that are important for various reasons. As well as contributing to the taste and smell of certain plants, they can also provide several numerous health benefits.
One such benefit of using BCP topically in skin products is that it can be applied directly to the affected area of your body. Due to its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, Beta-Caryophyllene can be used to help with various skin problems. As well as potentially helping with issues such as acne and skin inflammation, it can also be used to deal with cuts, wounds, and general physical pain.
Obviously, BCP is the highest percentage of our proprietary terpene blend. We also add Humulene, Terpineol, and a unique profile of healing essential oils.
Additional ingredients, and the reasoning behind the formula
Blue Yarrow
Blue Yarrow essential oil can become very useful during major life changes, bringing in balance and stability. Blue Yarrow can also be used to help support healthier skin for those who have rough, reddened skin.
Its unique deep blue hue is produced during the distillation process. Blue Yarrow’s aroma is sweet and herbaceous. The natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties of this herb make it ideal for use on skin conditions.
Frankincense
Tree resin from Boswellia trees has been burned for centuries in religious ceremonies and for contemplative meditation. Oil from the resin has long been used in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese health practices.
Because of the oil’s significant level of α-pinene, pre-clinical research also indicates Frankincense may help maintain healthy skin structure. Nourishing and clarifying as an addition to daily skin care, the oil’s warm, spicy, herbal aroma creates a relaxing yet uplifting atmosphere.
St. John's Wort
St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum), a wild-harvested plant with yellow flowers, has been used in traditional European medicine as far back as the ancient Greeks. It’s widely prescribed for mental health conditions such as depression in Europe.
Historically, St. John’s Wort has been used for a variety of conditions, including kidney and lung ailments, insomnia, and depression, and to aid wound healing. https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/st-johns-wort
Blue Chamomile
German Blue Chamomile is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, which can be very helpful in reducing redness from Rosacea, broken capillaries, and inflamed skin. It is known for improving dryness, as well as relieving dark, puffy circles under the eyes.
Blue Chamomile essential oil has a high content of azulene, the active organic compound of chamomile, which bears creates its blue color. Azulene has very potent anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal and antiseptic properties, in addition to the skin healing.
Tea Tree
Tea tree oil, also known as melaleuca oil, is an essential oil that comes from steaming the leaves of the Australian tea tree. When used topically, tea tree oil is believed to be antibacterial. Tea tree oil is commonly used to treat acne, athlete's foot, lice, nail fungus and insect bites.
Tea tree oil can be used to treat conditions and symptoms that affect skin, nails, and hair. The antiseptic properties of tea tree oil may contribute to its ability to combat oily skin. The anti-inflammatory properties of tea tree oil make it useful in relieving the discomfort of itchy skin. It soothes the skin and can also help heal infections that cause itchy skin.
Research on tea tree oil use for specific conditions shows:Acne. Research suggests that a treatment gel containing tea tree oil might be effective at relieving acne.
Dandruff. A tea tree oil shampoo used for four weeks has been shown to be effective at treating dandruff.
Athlete's foot. A tea tree oil cream, applied twice daily for one month, has been shown to be effective in relieving symptoms of athlete's foot.
Nail fungus. Research hasn't shown tea tree oil used in its pure form or in combination with other antifungal therapies to be effective in treating toenail fungus.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements-tea-tree-oil/art-20364246
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is a common household plant known for its skin healing properties. Using aloe vera on the face can help moisturize skin.
Using aloe vera on the face has benefits because:
its anti-inflammatory properties can reduce pain, swelling, and soreness of wounds or injuries
it reduces wound healing time and limits scarring
It reduces the healing time of first-degree and second-degree burns
it is effective in treating fungal and bacterial infections
it has an antioxidant effect that can help repair sun damage and slow down the aging process of the skin
it protects the skin from the damaging effects of radiation therapy
it contains 98% water, which helps moisturize, soothe, and hydrate the skin
it helps to make the skin more flexible and supple, rather than stiff and leathery
It has a cooling effect on rashes or sunburns
Witch Hazel
Sensitive skin, defined by abnormal sensory symptoms, is a very common condition, affecting an estimate of up to 45% of Americans Some research suggests that applying witch hazel topically to sensitive skin may be beneficial in the treatment of inflamed, irritated or broken skin. (HealthLine.com)
Thanks to its powerful anti-inflammatory properties, some research suggests that witch hazel could be useful in the treatment of acne.
Witch hazel is a plant with powerful medicinal properties that can be used in a variety of ways. There are many species of witch hazel, but Hamamelis virginiana — a type of shrub native to North America — is most commonly used in folk medicine in the US.
The leaves and bark are made into teas and ointments. Most often applied to the skin and scalp, witch hazel is widely known for its ability to ease inflammation and soothe sensitive skin.
Putting all these powerful ingredients together to make our BCPlus Gel formulation
Each of these BCPlus Gel ingredients is ethically sourced, organically grown and minimally processed. The final oil mix of all of the terpenes and essential oil ingredients is 10% of the content of the DMAE base gel to meet recommended sensitivity guidelines.
The BCPlus Topical Gel starts with our potent beta-caryophyllene topical formulation blended into a hydrating gel base that supports skin health and healing. We added Terpineol, an effective antioxidant, and Humulene (anti-inflammatory substance found naturally in hops flowers) to enhance absorption into the skin. Essential oils are carefully chosen to enhance and support beta-caryophyllene’s anti-inflammatory, healing and calming properties. Our BCPlus Topical Gel is non-greasy and easy to apply.
Our BCPLus Topical Gel can be ordered directly from our products page. It comes in a convenient blue glass pump bottle. You can easily control how much you want to use at a time. Unlike messy jars of gels or creams, the gel product is protected from accidental contamination from dirt or unwanted microbes. We even offer a small sample size version for you to try out. Order your BCPlus Topical Gel now – your skin will thank you for taking good care of it!
Watch our YouTube videos to learn more!
BCPlus Topical DMAE Gel FAQ Video
What’s in our amazing BCPlus Topical DAME gel? What’s the best way to use it?
Dr. Philip Blair and Misty DeWitt reveal some of the secrets behind our BCPlus Topical DMAE gel formulation. They also share the top 5 reasons to use this amazing beta-caryophyllene blend. Hint: It helps provide relief from pain and inflammation, supports skin health and healing, and helps protect our skin from common causes of aging!
BCPlus Topical Gel Testimonials
This short video highlights some of the amazing patient testimonials that people have sent us to share – the BCPlus Gel is providing relief from pain, inflammation, skin conditions, insect bites and more!