Before an ultrasound test or ion therapy, preparedness is essential to ensure the best outcomes. A conductivity gel, or conductive gel, is an electrolyte gel that reduces electrical resistance in the body and allows better penetration of elements in the skin for ultrasound and ion treatments. Conductivity gels and lotions typically contain hyaluronic acid, polypeptides, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, etc., soothing and moisturizing skin. Here’s everything one needs to know about conductive gels:
Advantages and uses of conductive gels
Accurate EEG recordings
Conductivity gels allow for accurate, high-intensity EEG recordings, as they facilitate better penetration of the elements during ultrasound and ion treatments. These gels do not dry out in contact with electrodes and spread easily over the skin.
Skin hydration
Another advantage of conductive gels is that they ensure skin hydration, replenishing the skin cells and preventing tightness. Conductivity gels enhance skin texture significantly, increasing its suppleness.
Better absorption of nutrients
Conductivity gels consist of essential vitamins, fulvic minerals, and hyaluronic acid and facilitate the smooth absorption of these nutrients by the skin, enhancing overall skin health. Fulvic minerals act as antioxidants and can help the skin fight infections better.
Anti-aging properties
Elements like hyaluronic acid, antioxidants, and vitamin E are essential to reverse signs of aging, such as wrinkles and loss of skin elasticity. Conductive gels contain these nutrients and promote anti-aging. Conductive gels are often applied on the face to reverse these signs.
Reduction of acne
The skin requires optimal hydration to prevent and eliminate acne. Conductive gels hydrate and lubricate the skin, reducing acne and enhancing skin quality considerably.
DIY conductivity gel recipes
Aloe vera-based conductive gel
For this recipe, one may scrape aloe vera gel from the leaves of the plant or purchase aloe vera gel from a local store. Add a tablespoon of salt for every 100 ml of gel, and blend the solution with bare hands or using a blender. Individuals with oily skin may add some drops of shampoo to ensure that the gel sticks to the skin easily. The mixture may be applied on the skin before ion treatments, ultrasound tests, or cosmetic electrotherapy.
Seaweed conductive gel
Sea moss or seaweed acts as a natural moisturizer and has several anti-inflammatory properties that can protect the skin’s barrier and enhance skin elasticity. All one needs for this recipe are sea moss and purified water. Soak sea moss in water and let it rest for three hours. Rinse the moss and blend it with purified water for nearly five minutes until the solution emulsifies. One may add in other ingredients like serum or toner to this solution and use it as an effective conductivity gel.
Flour and bleach conductive gel
Begin by mixing a cup of water with two tablespoons of salt. Now add in plain flour little by little, and stir the mixture till it attains dropping consistency. Add just one drop of bleach and apply the solution as a conductive gel.
Cornstarch conductive gel
Add one part cornstarch to 10 parts water in a pan, and boil the mixture, stirring continuously for about 10 minutes. One may add other ingredients like toner or serum to this mixture. It is advisable to use this gel within 2-3 days of preparation, as the solution may begin to lose its gel properties after three days.
Conductive gels contain essential elements like electrolytes, vitamin E, antioxidants, folate, and calcium, which help retain the skin’s texture and increase moisture. The electrolytes in conductive gels ensure that it does not dry out when it comes in contact with electrodes during ultrasound and ion treatments. Store-bought gels may also comprise other compounds, such as carbomer, sodium hydroxide, pentylene glycol, and chlorphenesin, depending on the type of conductivity gel purchased.
Today, a wide range of conductive gels and lotions for men and women are available online and in local stores. In addition, many DIY conductivity gel recipes, as mentioned above, are being recommended owing to their healing properties for the skin. While purchasing a conductivity gel, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional regarding the best gel based on one’s skin type and check out the different options available.
