In Vivo Characterisation of Skin Response to Sustainable Car Cleaning Products

Synthetic surfactants are currently the most commonly used agents in human cosmetics and household chemicals. However, there are increasingly frequent reports of cases showing the negative impact of these surfactants on human skin. Out of concern for users, many companies, including those originating in the automotive chemicals industry, are increasingly turning to surfactants that are more dermatologically friendly and non-toxic to the environment. The following study aimed to examine two custom-developed car shampoo concentrates based on highly biodegradable raw materials and to analyse their impact on selected skin parameters. The research included semi-contact patch tests and in vivo instrumental tests on a group of volunteers, measuring the following parameters: skin moisturising, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), pH, roughness, smoothness, and skin scaliness. Both products showed very good dermatological tolerance, without causing drastic or long-lasting changes in selected skin parameters. The results of the tests confirmed that both car products can represent a safe alternative for everyday use, in accordance with the principles of green chemistry.