Does peat stain skin?
Temporarily. Peat’s natural dark color can leave a slight tint, especially on very light skin, but this washes off within one or two cleanses. The darker the peat product, the more humic acid it contains — and the more bioactive it is. Some brands use lighter fulvic acid-dominant formulations to minimize discoloration.
Is cosmetic peat the same as garden peat?
No. Garden peat (horticultural peat) is lightly decomposed surface material (H2–H4) used as a soil amendment. It has low bioactive content. Cosmetic and therapeutic peat is highly humified (H6–H8+), sourced from specific deep layers, tested for bioactive content and safety. The difference is like comparing green wood to charcoal — same source material, entirely different properties.
Is peat safe during pregnancy?
Localized topical applications (face masks, scalp treatments, hand/foot soaks) are generally considered safe. Full-body peat baths and hot body wraps are contraindicated during pregnancy due to the thermotherapy component — sustained high temperature can be harmful. As with any treatment during pregnancy, consult your healthcare provider.
Will peat help my psoriasis?
There is moderate clinical evidence for peat in psoriasis management. An open trial showed daily peat application benefited psoriasis palmaris with rapid itch relief and decreased inflammation (Wollina 2009). Peat addresses psoriasis through anti-inflammatory, keratolytic, and immunomodulatory mechanisms. It is not a cure but may be a useful complementary treatment. Severe psoriasis should always be managed with a dermatologist.
Is peat harvesting bad for the environment?
Cosmetic peat extraction uses tiny volumes compared to energy peat (power generation) or horticultural peat (gardening). The entire global cosmetic peat industry uses less in a year than a single peat power station burns in a day. Responsible cosmetic peat extraction follows strict protocols: selective layer harvesting, natural-condition sites, below water table, small volumes. See our sustainability page for a detailed discussion.
What’s the difference between humic acid and fulvic acid?
Both are humic substances formed during peat humification, but they differ in size and solubility:
- Humic acid — Larger molecules, dark colored, insoluble below pH 2. Primary anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial compound. Stays on the skin surface longer.
- Fulvic acid — Smaller molecules, lighter colored, soluble at all pH values. Better skin penetration. Acts as a mineral transporter and antioxidant.
Most peat products contain both. The ratio depends on the peat source and extraction method.
How often should I use peat products?
Depends on the product type:
- Shampoo/soap — Daily or alternate days
- Face mask — 1–3 times per week
- Cream/serum — Daily (1–2× per day)
- Bath additive — 2–3 times per week during treatment course
- Mud pack — 1–3 times per week
For therapeutic use (e.g., psoriasis, eczema flares), more frequent application over 2–4 weeks may be needed, followed by maintenance frequency.
Does peat have a smell?
Yes — natural peat has a distinctive earthy, organic smell. Some people find it pleasant (like forest floor after rain), others find it strong. Cosmetic products vary: whole-peat products (masks, mud packs) have the most noticeable scent, while processed extracts (serums, shampoos) are milder. Some brands add essential oils to modify the scent.
Can I be allergic to peat?
Rare but possible. The Orru 2007 Estonian clinical trial reported 1 dropout out of 23 patients due to suspected allergy (malaise), and 1 due to skin sensitivity (vitiligo patient). If you have known sensitivities to natural organic materials, do a patch test first — apply a small amount to the inner wrist and wait 24 hours.
What is the “von Post scale”?
A 10-point scale (H1–H10) that measures how decomposed peat is. Created by Swedish geologist Lennart von Post. You assess it by squeezing a peat sample in your hand:
- H1: Clear water runs out, no plant material
- H5: Muddy water, some plant structure visible
- H8: Thick paste, almost no recognizable plant material
- H10: Completely amorphous paste
Cosmetic peat needs H6 or higher. The higher the number, the more humic substances are present.