Detergent-induced skin irritation occurs when the skin's natural protective barrier is damaged as a result of contact between the skin and the chemical substances found in cleaning products. Prolonged contact, frequent use, or sensitive skin significantly increase the risk of irritation.
Additives such as dyes, perfumes, preservatives, and various bleaches can cause allergic or irritant reactions on the skin. In addition, detergents with a high pH levels disrupt the skin's acidic balance, maximizing sensitivity. Cleaning without gloves, as well as insufficient rinsing, are among the main causes of irritation, as detergent residue remains on the skin. Detergent ingredients can contribute to skin irritation. Therefore, choosing a cleaning product analysis center carefully is extremely important.
Detergents contain different chemical components to maximize cleaning effectiveness. Some of these components can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions, especially in sensitive skin and with prolonged contact. While these chemical components are essential for cleaning performance, they can have negative effects on skin safety. Therefore, it is crucial that formulations are supported by dermatological testing and that appropriate usage instructions are followed.
Today, linear alkyl benzene sulfonate (LAS) is widely used as an active ingredient in the production of various types of detergents. The fact that it eliminates the foaming problem experienced especially by detergent manufacturers has led to the preference for using LAS instead of alkylbenzenesulfonate (ABS) as an active ingredient since the 1960s. The following methods can be used to determine the biodegradability rate of anionic surfactants:
These tests need to be carried out in a laboratory setting. The test must be performed in accredited laboratory services according to the TS EN ISO/IEC 17025 standard. One of these tests involves determining the hydrolysis-resistant anionic active substance in acidic environments, according to TS 5606 standards for surfactants and detergents.
In TS 5607, surfactants and detergent safety can also be tested by determining whether or not they are hydrolyzable under alkaline conditions, using anionic active substances. This method aims to determine the content of hydrolyzable and non-hydrolyzable anionic active substances.
Different types of detergents can significantly increase the risk of skin irritation depending on their chemical composition and how they are used. Some detergents pose a significant risk, especially to individuals with sensitive skin. To reduce the risk of skin irritation, dermatologically tested detergents suitable for sensitive skin, and preferably fragrance-free, should be preferred; gloves should be worn during use. Therefore, in vitro skin irritation test is very important to determine skin irritation.
Concentrated and industrial detergents are products that contain intense chemical components, specifically designed to provide high cleaning performance. Because these products may contain high levels of surfactants, bleaches, alkaline compounds, and solvents, they can cause adverse effects such as redness, dryness, irritation, and burning sensations if they come into direct contact with the skin.
Harsh Surfactants and Tensides
The formulations generally contain quaternary ammonium compounds, chlorine-based disinfectants, alcohol types, tensides and harsh surfactants. While these substances are effective against microorganisms, direct and prolonged contact with the skin can cause irritation, dryness, redness, and allergic reactions. Therefore, proper rinsing, correct dosage, and the use of personal protective equipment are extremely important when using antibacterial cleaning products. It is also recommended to choose products with much lower irritant properties for sensitive skin.
Synthetic Fragrances and Artificial Colorants
Synthetic perfumes and artificial colorings are chemicals produced in laboratories due to their low cost. Synthetic fragrances are found in many cleaning products, especially some detergents. Although they provide pleasant scents and colors, they carries serious negative risks to human health and skin sensitivity. Therefore, these components are considered threatening allergens. Synthetic ingredients generally cause hormonal imbalances and respiratory problems, while excessive use of coloring agents increases the risk of carcinogens.
Preservatives and Chemical Chelators
While the chemical chelators in detergents are essential for cleaning performance, they can have negative effects on skin health. Formaldehyde-releasing preservatives and some isothiazolone derivatives can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions.
Saniter, a cleaning products analysis center, has undertaken professional studies and proven its success-oriented approach to detergent product safety testing. To experience the Saniter difference and benefit from our detergent analysis service, you can contact our expert team.
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