Chios mastic: Properties for the skin

What is Chios mastic?

Chios mastic is the product of the mastic tree (Pistacia lentiscus var. Chia), which grows and thrives exclusively in Southern Chios island, Greece. Chios mastic is secreted in the form of “tears” from the trunk and large branches through superficial incisions made by sharp tools. The fresh mastic resin, after remaining under the shrub for a few days, solidifies under the influence of the summer weather conditions (intense sunlight and dryness) prevalent in the region. Subsequently, the solidified Chios mastic is collected and purified by mastic producers.

Chios mastic: Properties for the skin

Chios mastic has been traditionally used to treat various skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and wounds. Chios mastic has been proven to have antibacterial and antifungal properties that can help prevent and treat skin infections. Chios mastic may also have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce redness, swelling, and itching associated with skin conditions.

According to relevant publications, Chios mastic exhibits excellent adhesive properties when used in wound dressings and incisions, while simultaneously contributing to effective skin regeneration and wound healing.

The natural resin of Chios mastic is frequently used as an ingredient in bandages, patches, compresses, etc., for wounds or post-surgical incisions.

Chios mastic: Side effects

Chios mastic has the advantage of causing no side effects on the skin (such as irritation, itching, dermatitis, skin discoloration, etc.), unlike conventional ingredients used in wound healing.

Chios mastic: Approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA)

Since 2015, Chios mastic has been officially recognized by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) as a Herbal Medicinal Product with strong antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory action, indicated for: Skin inflammation and healing of skin wounds (topical use).

To read the product monograph in English, click on the EMA link [here].

Chios mastic: Which product is available for skin use?

Chios mastic is available on the market in the form of a gel under the name:
Mastiha var. Chia Cutaneous Regenerative Gel – Regenerative and Soothing Gel

Mastiha var. Chia Gel: Composition

Ingredients: 100% Lyophilized natural Chios mastic resin, Pistacia lentiscus (Chios mastic) gum water, Pistacia lentiscus (Chios mastic) gum 10%.
Excipients: Water, glycerin, maltodextrin, acacia gum, xanthan gum, lecithin, sclerotium gum (a long-chain polysaccharide used as a natural stabilizer in emulsions and viscosity regulator), pullulan (a natural polysaccharide produced from starch via fermentation), benzyl alcohol, sodium benzoate, disodium EDTA, potassium sorbate.

Mastiha var. Chia Gel: Product Description

Form: Gel
Content: Each ml of gel contains 10% lyophilized natural Chios mastic resin, Pistacia lentiscus (Chios mastic) gum
Description – Packaging: 30 ml plastic tube

Mastiha var. Chia Gel: Information

Mastiha var. Chia gel contains innovative Chios mastic resin in high concentration as its active ingredient. It is used for mild skin inflammations and as an aid in the healing of minor wounds.

Mastiha var. Chia Gel: Usage Instructions

Apply evenly to the affected skin up to 3 times daily and allow it to absorb fully, forming a mastic resin film
If symptoms persist for more than 1 week during product use, consult a dermatologist
If signs of skin infection appear, consult a dermatologist
Do not apply directly to an open wound
Suitable for face and body
Keep out of reach of children
Store the container in a cool, shaded place
Expiry date: Use the product before the expiration date stated on the packaging

Mastiha var. Chia Gel: Production & Distribution

Manufacturer: Mastic Research Center A.E., Kallimasia, Chios 821 31, Greece
Marketing Authorization Holder: Mediterra S.A., Kallimasia, Chios 821 31, Greece
Exclusive Distributor: IASIS PHARMA S.A., Fylis Ave. 137, Athens 134 51, Greece, Tel: +302102311031

References

Pachi VK, Mikropoulou EV, Gkiouvetidis P, et al. Traditional uses, phytochemistry and pharmacology of Chios mastic gum (Pistacia lentiscus var. Chia, Anacardiaceae): A review. J Ethnopharmacol 2020;254:112485.
Vrouvaki I, Koutra E, Kornaros M, et al. Polymeric Nanoparticles of Pistacia lentiscus var. chia Essential Oil for Cutaneous Applications. Pharmaceutics 2020;12:353.
European Medicines Agency. Committee on Herbal Medicinal Products (HMPC). EMA/HMPC/46758/2015.
Protopapa EE, Heliou A, Tsigonia A, et al. The antiphlogistic action of the Chios mastic essential oil: Treatment of skin irritations resulting from hair epilation and peeling with lotions containing mastic essential oil. Epitheorese Klinikes Farmakologias kai Farmakokinetikes 2001;16:203-5.