Bleach and Skin Disorders

Part of our Skin Disorder Education

Radiation Dermatitis, an inflammatory skin disorder

Researchers at Stanford University have come to some surprising conclusions regarding a common household product. A recent study shows that bleach could be a potential treatment for dermatitis cause by bed sores, radio therapy, and diabetic ulcers. Eczema sufferers currently use bleach baths in .005% concentrations, so the use of bleach to treat similar skin disorders would make sense. However, doctors stress that full strength bleach should never be applied to skin and patients should only apply ointments or creams containing bleach as prescribed by a doctor. 

Bleach may also have applications in anti-aging. When bleach baths were applied to mice, the mice grew thicker skin and increased cell production. Scientists say that bleach may have a chemical that stops immune response. An over active immune response is the main culprit in inflammatory skin disorders. Although this research is still in an inchoate stage, it shows possibly promising results for future studies with diluted solutions of bleach. Never apply bleach to the skin, as it can cause burns and irritation, but keep a look out for articles in the future as more research comes about.

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