Evaluation of occupational hand-cleansers - Results of an exploratory market analysis [Evaluation beruflicher hautreinigungsprodukte - Ergebnisse einer orientierenden marktanalyse]

Abstract

Scientific background: In 2007 the German Social Insurance Agency (DGUV) initiated the study "in-vivo evaluation of occupational skin-cleansing products" with the goal to evaluate such products in view of the potency and the safety of hand cleansers. To date, there are no methodical specifications with regard to objectifying cleansing effectiveness and skin compatibility of occuptional skin cleansing products. A market analysis was an initial part of the project. Potency, safety an comparability of skin-cleansing products were evaluated. Methodology: Altogether 120 products (5-20/manufacturer) of 11 manufacturers were evaluated in a standardized manner by the following criteria between 02/2008 and 04/2008. Product description and safety data sheets of the products were used for this investigation. Results: In the majority, the declaration and labeling of the used ingredients were correctly according to the INCI-standard. Moreover most of the manufacturers used constituents of low irritancy. Although not legally mandatory, the skin compatibility was assessed and documented by most manufacturers. In contrast the cleansing efficacy of the products was rarely evaluated and of great difference. For one product even medical effects were stated. Altogether, there was no uniform, general classification of products. Conclusion: Our results demonstrate the necessity for a comparable product evaluation. Presently, there are no commonly accepted criteria for product classification in view of cleansing effectiveness in correlation to skin compatibility. Generally accepted criteria and test methods are needed for the evaluation of hand cleansers in order to provide the possibility of transparency and comparability. © 2010 Dustri-Verlag Dr. Karl Feistle.