What Are the Pros and Cons of Colloidal Silver for Acne?

Using colloidal silver for acne can kill acne bacteria present on the surface of the skin, however, when this medication is taken for a long period of time, it has the potential to permanently discolor skin. The uses of colloidal silver, both internally and externally, tend to be controversial among many doctors and dermatologists. This type of medication is available over the counter without a prescription. It can be taken orally as a liquid, or applied directly to affected areas of the skin as a spray. Individuals with moderate to severe acne who are considering using this product should first consult with their dermatologist to avoid the possibility of potentially harmful side effects.

Colloidal silver is silver that has been altered, often using electricity, to reduce the size of each individual silver particle. These particles, once they have undergone a specialized treatment process, are small enough to pass easily in and out of the membranous walls of cells. They are also easily suspended in other liquids, such as water.

The surface area of each individual silver particle increases in size as a result of this process, though the overall molecule is reduced. When it is present in other cells, the silver acts to kill any bacteria, fungus, or harmful organisms it may come in contact with, without damaging the healthy tissues in which it is residing. Any overabundance of silver passes through skin tissues into the body, and is quickly eliminated as waste, eliminating the possibility of metal poisoning occurring.

The use of colloidal silver for acne topically has been shown to kill any acne bacteria present on the surface of the skin. When applied as a spray, potentially pore clogging bacteria and fungus is killed and can be washed away using standard daily facial cleansers. This does not guarantee an elimination of all acne, however, in sufferers.

All individuals possess different types of surface bacteria, including acne bacteria, living on the top layer of their skin. These bacteria only become harmful when lodged in pores and allowed to reproduce in an overabundance. Many dermatologists believe that the root cause of acne is an internal hormonal imbalance which cannot be treated topically. This imbalance is thought to create an ideal breeding ground for acne bacteria to grow in out-of-control proportions. Maintaining consistently clean skin, which colloidal silver does help to accomplish, can help reduce some of the appearances of acne, though it typically does not treat it long term.

Long term use of colloidal silver for acne is not recommended. When taken for sustained periods of time, silver can build up in the body. This build up leads to a discoloration of the skin, internal organs, eyes, and nails. Individuals who take colloidal silver for longer periods of time than approved by their doctors begin to appear bluish gray in color. This condition is known as argyria, and it typically does not go away once silver treatments have been stopped.

Many doctors prefer not to use colloidal silver for acne treatments due to its potentially dangerous long term side effect. Other over the counter medications, such as benzoyl peroxide, can be used to accomplish the same pore cleansing activities as this product. Benzoyl peroxide is equally effective in killing bacteria and fungus on the surface of the skin, and has only moderate side effects which do not include skin discoloration.