Testing: A Friendly Look at Transdermal Patches

Hello, and thanks for stopping by! This is a little test post, and we're glad you're here. We've used the chance to walk through a few simple basics about transdermal patches, in plain words and at a relaxed pace.

What makes a patch different?

A transdermal patch delivers its contents through the skin. That means it bypasses the digestive system, which is the main thing that sets it apart from a pill or capsule.

You'll also see several wellness brands selling patches as drug-free alternatives to supplements. It's a busy corner of the market, so it helps to know what you're looking at.

A quick word on regulation

In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration classifies a transdermal patch as a combination product. That's a medical device combined with a drug or biological product that the device is designed to deliver.

Before any transdermal patch product can be sold in the US, it has to apply for and receive FDA approval, showing safety and efficacy for its intended use. It's a good thing to keep in mind when you compare products.

Is skin comfort a concern?

It can be for some people. Microneedle patches (MNPs) may cause irritation on sensitive skin, though most studies show they don't irritate the skin. If your skin is on the sensitive side, take that into account.

Questions worth asking before you buy

• Does it really work? Look for published studies, credited to their authors, rather than big promises.
• Is it expensive? Work out the cost per day and compare it with what you'd spend on daily supplements.
• Is it approved? Check how the product is regulated where you live.

Thanks for reading

That's the whole tour. It's a small test post, but we hope it gave you a few useful things to think about. Come back soon, because there's more on the way.