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Body wash - unwanted sensorial
I’ve been experimenting recently with formulae for shower body wash systems, trying to compare different surfactants. My actual product is based on Plantaren APB (ammonium based) which is pretty good but I can still just about detect this effect.
For instance this reference formula using the usual SLS combination:
SLS 15%, SLES (20Mol) 26%, CAPB 6%, glycerine 3% Q/S water.
This when applied to the skin in the shower gives an unpleasant “heating” sensation as if it’s warming up as applied.
Now, I know that laundry detergent heats up when you add water so I did an experiment to see if indeed the temperature changed when I added some of the formula at 30C to water at 30C (room temp) and there was no change at all. So I assume that this sensation of heating is actually skin irritation.
I’m going to try a couple of sulphate free formulae next.
Your thoughts please? -
5 Replies
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Should show redness if irritation.Are those high percentages active?
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No, as supplied. No redness but the sensation is unpleasant.
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This could be an osmotic effect where the (relatively) high concentration of surfactant is drawing moisture from the skin. I doubt it is irritation in this instance as the sensation would be longer lasting.
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@Belassi you could do an overnight occlusive patch test or 48HR and see if redness developes.I know 5% active SLS alone will give a reaction.
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Excellent idea DrBob, I will do that. Thank you.
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