Correlation between pH and irritant effect of cleansers marketed for dry skin

Abstract

Most products recommended for sensitive skin have a considerable irritation effect, which is related to the pH of the product. Better regulation of advertisement specifications including the pH level and type of cleanser contained is necessary for the majority of soaps and cleansers.

Glyceryl Ether (mono-tert-butoxypropanediol) in Emulsion System

“…The pH values of the emulsions produced were in the range of 6 to 6.5. The near neutral pH value correlates with low skin irritation (Baranda et al 2002). The particle size of the emulsions produced (5.2-7.7 μm) remained unchanged even after two years of storage at ambient temperature.…”

Soaps and cleansers for atopic eczema, friends or foes? What every South African paediatrician should know about their pH

“…[16] We hope that the compiled list of analysed soaps will help as an easy desk reference and assist paediatricians to make better choices when recommending soaps and cleansers to patients with atopic eczema and to elderly patients (Table 1).…”

“…Most soaps and cleansers sufficiently remove skin surface dirt; however, this may cause long-term interference of the skin-barrier function, manifesting as dry, red, itchy and inflamed skin, particularly in atopic and elderly patients. [16] Although some detergents are safe to use, highly alkaline detergents affect the physiologically protective 'acid mantle' of the skin by decreasing the fat content. [16,17] Soaps and detergents can increase skin pH, disrupting the SC and inducing irritant contact eczema and pruritus, which seem to be worse during winter, particularly in patients with atopic eczema and those with dry and sensitive skin.…”

“…[16] Although some detergents are safe to use, highly alkaline detergents affect the physiologically protective 'acid mantle' of the skin by decreasing the fat content. [16,17] Soaps and detergents can increase skin pH, disrupting the SC and inducing irritant contact eczema and pruritus, which seem to be worse during winter, particularly in patients with atopic eczema and those with dry and sensitive skin. [2,16] The cutaneous changes are usually cumulative and indiscernible, having a greater impact on the elderly and atopic individuals.…”

“…[16,17] Soaps and detergents can increase skin pH, disrupting the SC and inducing irritant contact eczema and pruritus, which seem to be worse during winter, particularly in patients with atopic eczema and those with dry and sensitive skin. [2,16] The cutaneous changes are usually cumulative and indiscernible, having a greater impact on the elderly and atopic individuals. [19,20] Diligent use of moisturisers, soap substitutes and replacement of irritating wash products with moisturising ointments and oils form the backbone and are first-line therapy for atopic eczema.…”