Exploring Transdermal Vitamin D: An Alternative for Supplement Intolerance
The discussion delves into the potential for vitamin D supplementation through the skin, highlighting the challenges and considerations associated with transdermal absorption. It addresses personal intolerance to oral supplements and the importance of consulting healthcare providers for safe, effective alternative methods.
Do you think it is possible to supplement through the skin?
Hello,
I'm not talking about taking vitamins for healthy skin, I'm talking about supplementing by putting liquid vitamins and massaging the skin? It may seem stupid, but I have a big intolerance to supplements, I absolutely cannot tolerate vitamin D, I've tested a lot and I have liquid vitamin D in drops, I was wondering if I open the pores of my skin with hot water and then massage 10,000 IU of vitamin D on my skin, will my body absorb some of it?
Transdermal absorption of vitamins, including vitamin D, is an area of interest for those who have intolerances to oral supplements. Skin application of vitamin D provides the advantage of avoiding the first-pass metabolism by the liver, ensuring a potentially sustained release, and bypassing gastrointestinal issues that can occur with oral intake1.
However, direct application of vitamin D to the skin does not guarantee effective absorption into the bloodstream like when synthesized naturally via sun exposure. The skin's natural barrier function can limit the absorption of substances applied topically. While the transdermal method can concentrate active substances in the upper skin layers, especially for treating conditions like some skin disorders, consistent and effective systemic absorption for addressing vitamin D deficiency still requires more established research and development of appropriate formulations1.
Moreover, the effectiveness of this approach would depend significantly on the formulation of the vitamin D product, as well as individual skin permeability factors. While there is some scientific interest and studies regarding transdermal delivery systems for vitamin D, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider to explore this option safely and effectively1.
Footnotes
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Eliza Glowka, "Drug Delivery Systems for Vitamin D Supplementation and Therapy," PubMed Central, 2019. ↩ ↩2 ↩3
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