Research — Safety

Research Summary: The thermal behaviour of human stratum corneum (SC) with various hydration levels was studied using differential thermal analysis (DSC) within the temperature range of –130 to 120°C. SC containing 20% water, resembling the intact condition, shows thermal transitions at around –20°C (representing water in skin), –10, 40, and 70°C (representing skin lipids), 85°C (representing protein-associated lipids), and 100°C (representing skin protein). Dehydration of SC causes the transitions at –20 and 100°C to be invisible. Lipid extraction followed by dehydration eliminates all transitions. Further hydration produces a transition of water at around 0°C with a huge change in enthalpy....

Phenoxyethanol, or 2-phenoxyethanol, has a large spectrum of antimicrobial activity and has been widely used as a preservative in cosmetic products for decades. It is effective against various Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, as well as against yeasts, and has only a weak inhibitory effect on resident skin flora.According to the European Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, phenoxyethanol is safe for all consumers – including children of all ages – when used as a preservative in cosmetic products at a maximum concentration of 1%. Adverse systemic effects have been observed in toxicological studies on animals, but only when the levels of...

Research Summary: Nature is full of various nanomaterials and nanostructures that have inspired and helped human life and civilization in the advancement of science and technology. Among these materials are clays, which are abundantly found in rocks and earth structures. The mineral montmorillonite, known as a clay nanoparticle, is the major phase in bentonite. This nanoclay, with a thickness of about 10 angstroms, includes unique properties such as expansion, high specific surface area, and electrical properties. It also has a high cation exchange capacity and has found numerous applications in industry and research. Among its uses are its role as...

Research Summary: The sun-and-skin interactions have controversial sides. Besides important beneficial effects, we also need to take into consideration some serious harmful results. In particular, these are connected to the portion of the solar spectrum traditionally identified as ultraviolet type A and B. The topical application of sunscreens (and the avoidance of extreme exposure to sun rays) is worldwide recognized as the best strategy to avoid sunburn and edema. Moreover, such a strategy can efficiently prevent the onset of skin cancer.Therefore, the first aim of sunscreen products is to efficiently minimize all damage from sun exposure, while, at the same...