If you’ve scrolled health-X or caught Paul Saladino’s recent nine-minute takedown, you’ve probably seen methylene blue (MB) dragged through the mud. In his video, Saladino warns about serotonin-syndrome risks, drug interactions and “mitochondrial mayhem.”
The conversation is loud, emotional…and missing some crucial context.
The part everyone forgets
MB isn’t just a trendy bio-hack but an FDA-approved rescue drug for acquired methemoglobinemia, a condition where red blood cells can’t carry oxygen.
Clinicians also lean on it (off-label) to reverse certain chemo-induced neuro-toxicity and, historically, malaria.
Used responsibly and at medically-appropriate doses (typically milligrams, not the gram-level aquarium-cleaner videos you’ll see online), MB has an excellent safety record. That said, people on SSRIs or with G6PD deficiency must exercise caution—exactly the nuance Saladino highlights.
Why we still love it for skin
Topically, MB is showing real promise:
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Wound-healing & inflammation: Early studies report faster closure and calmer tissue. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
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Acne & psoriasis via photodynamic therapy: When light-activated, MB knocks out bacteria (hello, C. acnes) and tames plaque psoriasis.
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Potent antioxidant action: In cell culture, MB outperformed even retinol at protecting dermal fibroblasts.
That’s why our R&D lab keeps tinkering with MB-infused tallows and why our DMs are full of “When is the MB toothpaste back?!”
Where we land
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Oral MB: Proven lifesaver in specific clinical scenarios, not a daily mega-dose supplement.
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Topical MB: A rising star for barrier repair, breakouts and photo-damage.
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Our commitment: We’ll keep formulating, patch-testing safe topical doses so you can reap the benefits without the hype hangover.
What’s next
Thanks for being part of a community that asks hard questions and waits for honest answers. If you have thoughts, or research you think we should review then hit reply. We read every email.
Stay curious (and maybe a little blue),
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