Q: Where do I apply SUP3R-11? What are the optimal application sites for absorption?
A: The two most important factors when using transdermals are site of application and surface area of application. In a paper published in the book "Transdermal Absorption of Dermatological Products", the percutaneous absorption of benzoic acid was measured at 11 different sites. From this paper it would appear optimal to apply transdermals to the postauricular/neck/clavicle region. This would be behind the ear, down the side of the neck, around the front of the traps and over your collar bones. Picture included to help illustrate:
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Depending on the dosage, you may be able to apply to both sides of the neck and not require other application sites. However with 2 transdermals, you likely require other sites unless you are using very low dosages. For this, we need to consider the thickness of the stratum corneum at the site of application, because the thicker it is the less flux you'll achieve. And thickness of the stratum corneum is highly variable across different areas of the body, due to differences in the number of stratum corneum cell layers. According to one Japanese study (Z. Ya-Xian, 1999) where hundreds of subjects had their number of stratum corneum cell layers at many points measured: Genitals: 6, Face: 9, Neck: 10, Scalp: 12, Trunk: 13, Limbs: 15, Palms and soles: 47, Heels: 86. Now Genitals, Face and Scalp should be avoided. We are already utilizing the Neck. So the Trunk is the next logical location for application. I apply to the upper chest and upper abdominal region.
The second factor regards surface area, and for this we must consider transdermal flux, which is measured in µg/cm²/hour, so the more square centimeters you spread your dose over, the more flux you'll achieve. Spread the transdermal as thinly and as broadly as possible for optimal results. (Note: Please do not apply to the face or genitals. Those areas contain a lot of sensitive nerve-endings, and application at these areas may cause pain or discomfort.)
In summary, spread your transdermals as thinly and broadly as possible behind the ear, down the neck, around the traps, and over the collar bones. And if you require more application sites, utilize the trunk, specifically upper chest and the upper abdominal region.