Camphor and Menthol Topical Ointments - This is how to use them correctly!

When our limbs hurt, our muscles ache, or our joints ache, do we often use some kind of balm or ointment? You probably have something like Tiger Balm, Siddalepa, or Icy Hot in your home. Most of these ointments mainly contain camphor and menthol. So while these can provide relief from minor aches and pains, they can also cause problems if not used properly. Today, let's talk about how to use these ointments exactly and what we should definitely be aware of.

What actually happens with these cosmetics?

Simply put, when you apply this ointment to your skin, you feel either a warm or a cool sensation. The camphor and menthol can stimulate the nerve endings in your skin, creating this warm or cool sensation.

Imagine that you have a sprained ankle and it hurts. When you apply this balm, the signal to your brain about pain is replaced by this signal about heat/cold. That is, the brain focuses on this new sensation rather than the pain. It's like when a child falls and we show them something else to distract them. This is how these ointments temporarily block the pain signals from reaching the brain, which is what brings us relief.

Things to tell your doctor before using these

Although these are common over-the-counter medications, there are some situations where you should think carefully before using them. It's best to talk to your doctor about this, especially if you have any of the following conditions:

• Burned or injured skin: Never apply these products to areas of your skin that have wounds, cuts, scrapes, or burns . Doing so can cause the chemicals in these products to be absorbed into the body and cause dangerous conditions.
• Allergies : If you have ever had an allergic reaction, such as a skin rash, eczema, or itching, after using camphor, menthol, or any other ointment, be sure to tell your doctor about it.
• If you are pregnant or planning to have a baby: It is essential to seek medical advice before using any medication during these times.
• If a mother is breastfeeding her baby:Talk to your doctor about this as well, as some of the ingredients in your cosmetics can pass to your baby through breast milk.

How exactly do you use this?

This is very simple, but it is very important to follow these steps exactly.

1. For the skin surface only: This is the most important thing. These ointments are only meant to be applied to the skin surface . They should not be put in the mouth or swallowed for any reason.

2. Wash your hands: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after applying the ointment . However, if you are applying the medication for a pain in your hand, wash your hands only before applying it.

3. Do not apply to eyes, nose, or mouth: Do not allow this product to get on sensitive areas like the eyes, nose, or mouth. If you accidentally get it in your eyes, immediately rinse your eyes thoroughly with clean water for several minutes.

4. Apply a thin layer: Apply a thin film only to the painful area. Do not rub in too hard or apply a large amount.

5. Do not apply to wounds: As mentioned earlier, do not apply to cuts, scrapes, or burns.

6. Do not mix with other cosmetics: Do not apply any other cream or oil to the area where you have applied this balm without your doctor's advice.

7. If giving to children: It is not recommended to use these for children under 2 years of age. Even for children older than that, it is safest to consult a doctor before using them.

What to do if you take too much medicine or get it in your mouth?

This is especially likely to happen in homes with young children. Don't worry if someone, especially a young child, accidentally puts these cosmetics in their mouth or swallows them.

The immediate thing to do is to take him to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital .

You can also call the National Poison Information Center at the Colombo National Hospital and get advice on the immediate steps to take. They will guide you correctly.

What are the side effects? Things to be aware of

These cosmetics are generally safe. However, some people may experience minor side effects. Let's see what they are.

How to store and dispose of medicine safely?

How do you keep it safe?

• Keep them out of reach of children and pets. Children may like the smell of these. So be sure to keep them locked away in a place they can't get to, like a cupboard.
• Store at room temperature. Generally, it is best to keep it between 20-25 degrees Celsius. Do not expose it to extreme heat or extreme cold.
• Keep away from fire. Many of these coatings are flammable. Therefore, do not store them near stoves, matches, or cigarettes.
• Do not use if expired. Like any medicine, these have an expiration date. Do not use after that.

How to remove it properly?

When getting rid of expired or no longer needed cosmetics, do not flush them down the toilet or sink. The best way is to:

1. Remove the coating from the bottle or tube.

2. Mix it well with something like used tea leaves, coffee grounds, soil, or cat litter.

3. Place this mixture in a sealable polythene bag or other container.

4. Then throw it in the trash. Doing so will help prevent damage to the environment and the potential for accidents if it falls into the hands of someone else.