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Journey from coal mine to i-On Skincare

Insights from Dr. Xi Huang: The Journey Behind i-On Skincare (Series #1)

My Journey Begins: Discovering the Hidden Culprit

Hello, I'm Dr. Xi Huang, and my journey in the world of medicine and research has been anything but conventional. It all began in the field of occupational medicine, a branch of healthcare that focuses on the prevention and treatment of work-related injuries and illnesses. My initial focus was on the health of coal miners (young man pictured on the right), a group plagued by a particularly insidious condition known as black lung disease.

The French Connection: Iron and Black Lung Disease

When I was a Ph.D. student in France, I investigated why one coal mine region had a higher incidence of black lung disease than another. My initial hypothesis was that coal dust with a higher incidence of black lung disease produces more oxygen free radicals. Indeed, my research in several coal mine regions in France confirmed that the incidence of black lung disease correlates with the production of oxygen free radicals. I could have stopped there and graduated, but my curiosity drove me further. Using various methods, I identified that iron sulfate in the coal dust was responsible for the production of oxygen free radicals. From that moment on, my career was intertwined with the study of iron.

A New Frontier: Research in the USA

After coming to the USA, I continued to expand my research on black lung disease, analyzing a broader range of coal dust samples. It was during this time, while working closely with coal miners in the west coast regions such as Utah and Colorado, that I made a groundbreaking discovery. These miners, like easter coal miners, such as those from Pennsylvania and West Virginia, were constantly exposed to coal dust, yet their incidence of black lung disease was much lower. The reason was that the coal dust in these western regions contained a mineral that prevents iron from becoming bioavailable. This miracle mineral is calcium carbonate. This discovery became the basis of our patented De-Ironizing Inducer (DII® or Dii) technology for iron management in aging skin.

The Broader Implications of Iron

Understanding iron's role in black lung disease opened up a new realm of possibilities and questions. What other impacts could iron have on the human body? Could it be a hidden factor in other health issues? These questions drove me to delve deeper into the mysterious world of iron and its effects on our health.

Iron, Oxidative Stress, and Aging

As my research progressed, I began to see iron in a new light. I realized that its influence extended far beyond occupational health, touching on various aspects of general health and wellness. One of the most exciting developments was the connection between iron and aging, particularly in women. After menopause, women accumulate iron, which, when not properly managed, can lead to the production of harmful oxygen free radicals. These radicals are a major contributor to the aging process.

A Breakthrough in Skincare Technology

This discovery laid the foundation for the development of our patented DII technology, a breakthrough that harnesses the power of pearl powder, mainly containing calcium carbonate found in coal mines, to prevent iron from becoming toxic. This technology has become the cornerstone of our innovative skincare line, i-On By Dr. Xi, designed to combat aging skin and promote overall skin health.

A Journey from Occupational Medicine to Skincare

My journey from occupational medicine to women’s health, such as skincare, might seem unusual, but it is a testament to the interconnectedness of health disciplines and the importance of looking beyond the surface. Each step has been driven by a desire to uncover hidden culprits and develop solutions that improve lives. I am excited to continue this journey, exploring new frontiers in health and wellness, and sharing these discoveries with you. Stay tuned for more insights and developments as we continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in health and beauty.

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