BASF Develops New Approach to Skin Protection Against Environmental Pollution

Nowadays, increasing urbanization presents growing threats regarding the potentially harmful effects that pollution can have on skin. Skin, which serves as the first line of defense against particulate pollutants, requires special protection. In response, BASF has developed a comprehensive approach to test typical cosmetic formulation ingredients in terms of pollution prevention efficacy. Dr. Annette Mehling, Senior Manager Skin Sciences, stated: "We aim to support manufacturers in developing skincare products that help protect skin against particulate pollutants. However, since there are different types of pollutants and therefore potentially several defense mechanisms needed to effectively protect skin, there is no 'one-size-fits-all' test for pollution-fighting claims. For this reason, we have developed a series of new test methods that enable scientifically sound evaluation of the performance of different cosmetic ingredients and formulations. Systematic analyses target four fundamental mechanisms of action: anti-adhesion, removability, penetration prevention and cleansing. Test results can then be used to create new, effective skincare formulations that provide protection against the adverse effects of particulate pollutants on skin health."

Anti-adhesion and removability: Keeping particulate matter away from skin

Keeping particulate matter (PM) away from skin is the primary line of defense against damage caused by pollution. To translate this starting point into effective skincare products, BASF focuses on reducing particulate adhesion of typical ingredients or formulations and/or their removability from pre-treated skin (i.e., rinsing). The choice of polymers, emollients and emulsifiers in the formulation significantly affects these two parameters. For example, of the fifteen polymers tested, eleven were found to reduce PM adhesion compared to untreated dirty skin. Conversely, many emollients and emulsifiers can increase adhesion. The best results were obtained using a volatile hydrocarbon-based emollient at low concentrations. For emulsifiers, sugar-based variants showed the best performance.   Source