The Discovery of Ozone and Early Medical Interest
In 1785, Dutch physicist Martinus van Marum described a distinctive odor produced during electrical discharge in oxygen. In 1840, Christian Friedrich Schönbein gave the gas its name — ozone — from the Greek word ozein, meaning "to smell."
Researchers soon realized that ozone has an exceptionally strong oxidative potential. This property led to its early use in water purification by the mid-19th century and later inspired initial medical experimentation. By 1859, the medical use of ozonated oils had already been documented.
The main challenge was stability. Ozone is a highly reactive gas that cannot be stored for long periods. The solution involved controlled reactions with plant oils rich in unsaturated fatty acids. This process produces relatively stable oxidative compounds — mainly ozonides — which can be applied topically to the skin.
It is important to clarify that the product does not contain gaseous ozone itself, but rather the reaction products formed between ozone and fatty acids.
Ozone in 20th-Century Medicine
During the 20th century, ozone was used in the management of infected wounds, burns, and emergency conditions in battlefield medicine. Over time, more precise ozone generators were developed and additional routes of application were explored, including systemic uses. At the same time, medical regulation became more stringent, leading to restrictions on some applications.
To promote standardization and scientific rigor, international organizations were established. One of them is the International Scientific Committee of Ozone Therapy (ISCO3). In collaboration with the Spanish Medical Ozone Association (AEPROMO), the Madrid Declaration was published in 2010. This international consensus document outlines principles for controlled concentrations, clinical protocols, and ethical considerations — reflecting a shift toward regulated and mechanism-based use.
In the field of topical application, research has continued to develop gradually, particularly in areas related to wound healing and inflammatory skin conditions.
How Ozonated Oils Work on the Skin
When ozone reacts with unsaturated fatty acids in a plant oil, relatively stable oxidized compounds are formed. When applied to the skin, these compounds gradually release reactive oxygen species, creating a controlled oxidative environment that may influence local microorganisms and cellular inflammatory pathways.
Scientific literature describes several potential mechanisms:
- Oxidative antimicrobial activity against bacteria and fungi
- Modulation of inflammatory pathways
- Support for skin barrier recovery
- Influence on the local skin microbiome
The effect of these oils is not based on aggressive disinfection, but rather on helping create a more balanced skin microenvironment.
Renewed Interest in Ozonated Oils
Three major global trends help explain the renewed attention:
- Increasing antibiotic resistance, which encourages more cautious use of antimicrobial agents
- A high prevalence of chronic inflammatory skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis and psoriasis
- The need for supportive solutions suitable for long-term use, including on sensitive skin areas
At the same time, awareness has expanded among dermatologists, pharmacists, skin care professionals, and the general public regarding the biological activity of reactive oxygen and the potential role of ozonated oils as part of a structured skin care routine. Exposure to clinical research and accumulated practical experience has contributed to a more precise understanding of their place among the available options for sensitive or challenging skin.
Recent scientific reviews also suggest a favorable local tolerability profile for topical use, with side effects reported as rare and generally mild and transient.
From a regulatory perspective, products based on ozonated oils are typically classified as dermocosmetic preparations and, in some cases, as medical devices for external use — depending on their intended purpose and local regulatory frameworks. They are not medicines and are not intended to replace medical treatment when such treatment is required. Instead, they may be integrated into a broader approach to managing skin conditions.
In Which Clinical Contexts Have Ozonated Oils Been Studied?
Scientific literature has described several areas of investigation:
- Chronic wounds and superficial burns
- Diabetic foot as a supportive measure alongside standard care
- Onychomycosis and fungal skin infections
- Atopic dermatitis
- Psoriasis
In psoriasis, for example, some studies reported reductions in PASI scores — the standard clinical measure used to assess disease severity. In atopic dermatitis, improvements in severity indices have been described, along with potential effects on the diversity of the skin microbiome.
However, it is important to emphasize that although the accumulating evidence suggests meaningful supportive potential, the field continues to evolve. Larger clinical trials are still needed to fully clarify the role of ozonated oils within conventional treatment frameworks. At present, their use is generally viewed as part of a supportive and integrative approach and may be incorporated into clinical practice according to professional judgment.
A Scientific Journey That Continues
The history of ozonated oils is not the story of a sudden discovery — it is one of scientific evolution.
From the distinctive smell observed in Schönbein's laboratory, through medical field experiments in the 20th century, to modern formulations produced under controlled standards, the development reflects a gradual maturation of scientific understanding.
Today, under stricter regulation and a clearer biological framework, ozonated oils are increasingly viewed as supportive dermocosmetic tools — part of a mechanism-based approach that may help support the skin in a range of conditions.
The information on this website is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute personal medical advice or a substitute for consultation with a healthcare professional. Products are classified according to applicable regulations as cosmetics, medical devices, or non-medicinal products and are not intended for the diagnosis, treatment, cure, or prevention of disease. Use of the information and products should follow the instructions provided and remains the responsibility of the user.
