Do you want a more Brazilian scene than your grandmother or mother suggesting you put Min Ancora on your pimples as a teenager? Well, in Brazil the ointment has become a “trick” to cure any skin problem, and its fame is not in vain. The product was created by pharmacist and Portuguese immigrant Eduardo Augusto Gonçalves in 1915. It has remained with the same formula ever since, gaining traction in Brazilian homes.
Min Ancora ointment is composed of benzalkonium chloride, camphor and zinc oxide, substances that help fight a number of skin problems. According to the manufacturer’s website, the product has properties to treat hives, insect bites, chilblains and minor wounds, as well as preventing bad odor in the armpits and feet.
Despite all the benefits, the most widespread use of Min Ancora is to fight acne, that is, to “dry out” pimples. But is the product really effective in this sense?
Is Min Ancora used to fight acne?
The answer is yes, even though it is an ancient medicine, Min Ancora uses substances that fight the causes of acne.
Pimples are small inflammations, normally caused by bacteria that multiply in excess sebum, produced by the sebaceous glands, when they become blocked. Min Ancora ointment has antibactericidal properties, deriving from zinc oxide, which also has an antiseptic and anti-inflammatory action. In other words, the ointment helps reduce the multiplication of bacteria that cause inflammation, causing the “drying” of the pimple.
Min Ancora’s formula also contains camphor, a medicinal plant famous for its antiseptic, calming and analgesic effects. Together with benzalkonium chloride, camphor gives the ointment an astringent action, helping to reduce secretion and inflammation of the skin. Together, they also have a healing effect that helps the skin recover after the rash.
Based on the action of its components, it can be stated that Min Ancora ointment is effective in counteracting the multiplication of microorganisms on the skin, removing impurities and combating and healing inflammation.
Warnings and contraindications
It’s worth noting, however, that the ointment is a palliative treatment, and people with severe acne should consult a doctor to find the best treatment. The ointment also does not prevent the appearance of new pimples and is recommended for treating or drying existing acne. Additionally, some experts say that one of the ointment’s components, mineral oil, can clog skin pores and make skin oily, which could lead to more acne.
When applying it to any wounds, it is important to remove the excess and apply it every 12 hours. If you plan to use the product during the day, it is important to apply sunscreen to the exposed area. Although cases of side effects are rare, the ointment should not be used by people hypersensitive to any element of its formula, nor by children under 2 years of age.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
