You’ve probably heard about the healing potentialof ozonated oil. It’s a go-to remedy in dermatology as well as for many ailments for its powerful antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and regenerative properties. But as its popularity grows, this question comes up: is a higher PV better?
A high-quality ozonated oil isn’t just about making it as “strong” as possible with the highest PV. In fact, chasing extreme strength can be more harmful than beneficial.
The Power of Peroxide Value (PV)
The level of ozonides and peroxides in an ozonated oil is measured by its Peroxide Value (PV). This number tells you the concentration of the active oxygen-rich compounds that give the oil its therapeutic strength. So, a higher PV should mean more germ-fighting strength. Howeever this is only partially true. This iscalled the PV Paradox.
Some manufacturers create oils with extremely high PVs—sometimes as high as 3,000 mEq O₂/kg—thinking it makes them more potent. But this aggressive process is like overcooking a healthy meal. It simply eliminates beneficial nutrients and generates unwanted, unhaelthy byproducts. Such high ozonation and PV values result in:
- Severe Rancidity. The oil develops a sharp rancid, unpleasant smell due to the formation of compounds like aldehydes.
- Skin Irritation. The high concentration of aggressive compounds can become harshand irritating which increases the risk of skin irritation and inflammation.
- Nutrient Loss. The process destroys the oil’s natural (denaturalization) beneficial components, like Vitamin E (tocopherols) and essential fatty acids. This is particularly important for extra virgin olive oil, which naturally already contains excellent skincare nutrients.
- Reduced Stability. The oil becomes signfifcantly more chemically unstable and also has a shorter shelf life.
Finding the “Goldilocks Zone” of Efficacy
So, what’s the perfect PV value? According to the International Scientific Committee on Ozone Therapy (ISCO3), the world’s leading authority, there is a scientifically-backed “sweet spot” or “Goldiloxks Zone” that balances maximum power with safety and stability:
- Low PV (200-400). Perfect for gentle regeneration, healing and sensitive skin applications. This low PV level can up to 600 PV, overlapping with the medium PV range.
- Medium PV (400-800). Appropriate for stronger antiseptic action as well aspromoting cell growth.
- High PV (800-1,200). This is generally maximum recommended PV range. It is used where potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties are required such as on highly infected wounds, (e.g.foot ulcers), fungal problems and serious skin problems such as psoriasis.
The ISCO3 guidelines do not recommend using oils with a PV significantly above 1,500 mEq O₂/kg bceause of to the high risk of rancidity and skin irritation. PV values above this limit offers almost no extra benefit while introducing serious quality issues.
Choosing High-Quality Ozonated Oil
The best ozonated oil isn’t the one with the highest PV number; it’s the one made with the best process hence maintaining the natural benefits of the oil together with the activate oxygen components:
- Optimal PV. It is best to choose an oil with a PV that matches your needs within the 1,200 mEq O₂/kg therapeutic ceiling.
- Insist on Cold-Processing. The manufacturing temperature is critical. Cold-processed ozonation preserves the oil’s natural nutrients and stability, resulting in a superior, less sticky, less odor and a more effective product. High-temperature productin methods are a shortcut that significantly degrades and denaturalizes the oil.
- Top Quality Control. A high PV ozonated oil with a low aldehyde level is the true sign of a skillfully crafted, stable, and non-rancid ozonated oil.
Bottom Line
For ozonated oil, “stronger” or very high PV values isn’t always better. True quality comes from a scientifically-backed potency, a careful manufacturing process, and a commitment to stability, efficacy and safety.