Friday, August 7, 2020

SOAPS AND SHAMPOOS ALLERGY

Introduction:
The surface of the skin is slightly acidic. Studies have shown that the potential of hydrogen (pH) of skin increases in proportion to the pH of cleanser used. An increase in pH causes an increase in dehydrative effect, irritability, and propionibacterium count. 

Changes in the pH are reported to play a role in the pathogenesis of some skin diseases. Therefore, the use of skin cleansing agents with a pH of about 5.5 may be of relevance in the prevention and treatment of those skin diseases.

Aims and Objectives:
The aim and objective of this study were to assess the pH of different brands of bathing soaps and shampoos available in the market.

Background:
Normal healthy skin has potential of hydrogen (pH) range of 5.4-5.9 and normal bacterial flora. The use of soap with high pH causes an increase in skin pH, which in turn causes an increase in dehydrative effect, irritability and alteration in bacterial flora. The majority of soaps and shampoos available in the market do not disclose their pH.

Sample collection:
Samples of branded soaps and shampoos were collected from shops in the locality. They included bathing soaps, Anti-acne soaps, ayurvedic soaps, and those promoted for dermatological conditions. A sample of homemade soap was also collected. We also collected a sample of imported soap to compare with the same brand in the Indian market. The solution of each sample was made and pH was measured using pH meter.

The procedure used for soap:
Soap sample weighing 150 mg was mixed in 15 ml distilled water without producing much lather. It was kept undisturbed for 24 h for the maximum dissolution of soap. Then the pH of each sample was measured.

The procedure used for shampoo:
Sample of shampoo of 1.5 ml is taken in a glass beaker and water is added to the sample to make its volume to 15 ml. Mixing is done well without producing lather. The solution is kept undisturbed for 30 min. Then the pH of each sample was measured.

Results:
The majority of the soaps have a pH within the range of 9-10. The majority of the shampoos have a pH within the range of 6-7.

Conclusions:
The soaps and shampoos commonly used by the population at large have a pH outside the range of normal skin and hair pH values. Therefore, it is hoped that before recommending soap to the patient especially those who have sensitive and acne-prone skin, due consideration is given to the pH factor and also that manufacturers will give a thought to pH of soaps and shampoos manufactured by them so that their products will be more skin and hair-friendly.

Source: Internet

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