Unit 1

1. Classification of Cosmetic and Cosmeceutical Products

A. Cosmetics

Cosmetics are products intended to be applied to the human body for cleansing, beautifying, promoting attractiveness, or altering the
appearance without affecting the body's structure or functions.

Classification of Cosmetics (based on application area):

Area of Application Product Types

Skin Moisturizers, creams, lotions, sunscreens, anti-aging creams

Hair Shampoos, conditioners, hair oils, hair dyes, hair serums

Face Foundations, face powders, concealers, makeup products

Eyes Eyeliners, mascara, eye shadows

Lips Lipsticks, lip balms, lip gloss

Nails Nail polishes, nail removers

Oral Toothpaste, mouthwash, teeth whiteners

Fragrances Perfumes, deodorants, body sprays

Baby Products Baby lotion, baby oil, baby shampoo

Men's Grooming Aftershaves, beard oil, shaving cream

B. Cosmeceuticals

Cosmeceuticals are cosmetic products with bioactive ingredients purported to have medical or drug-like benefits.

Classification of Cosmeceuticals (based on function):

Function Examples

Anti-aging Retinol creams, peptides, vitamin C serums

Skin lightening Kojic acid, arbutin, hydroquinone

Acne treatment Salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide

Sun protection Broad-spectrum sunscreens (SPF, zinc oxide)

Hair loss Minoxidil-based serums

Anti-inflammatory Aloe vera, green tea extracts

Moisturizing/Repairing Hyaluronic acid, ceramides, panthenol

2. Definition of Cosmetics as per Indian and EU Regulations

A. Indian Regulation (as per Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940)

"Cosmetic means any article intended to be rubbed, poured, sprinkled or sprayed on, or introduced into, or otherwise applied to the human
body or any part thereof for cleansing, beautifying, promoting attractiveness, or altering the appearance, and includes any article intended for
use as a component of cosmetic."

B. European Union Regulation (EC No 1223/2009)

"A cosmetic product means any substance or mixture intended to be placed in contact with the external parts of the human body (epidermis,
hair, nails, lips, external genital organs) or with the teeth and the mucous membranes of the oral cavity with a view exclusively or mainly to
cleaning them, perfuming them, changing their appearance, protecting them, keeping them in good condition or correcting body odours."
3. Evolution of Cosmeceuticals from Cosmetics

• Traditional Cosmetics: Provided superficial improvements (color, texture).

• Advanced Cosmetics: Started incorporating ingredients with dermatological benefits.

• Birth of Cosmeceuticals:

o Coined by Dr. Albert Kligman.

o Bridged the gap between cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.

o Use ingredients like antioxidants, peptides, botanical extracts, vitamins.

• Today: Cosmeceuticals are backed by scientific studies and often regulated under stricter norms (depending on the country).

4. Cosmetics as Quasi Drugs and OTC Drugs

Quasi Drugs (especially in Japan and Korea):

• Not exactly a drug or cosmetic, but has mild medicinal benefits.

• E.g., anti-dandruff shampoos, anti-acne creams, fluoride toothpaste.

OTC (Over-The-Counter) Cosmetic Drugs:

• Cosmetics containing active drug ingredients that are approved for non-prescription use.

• Examples:

o Sunscreens (contain SPF agents like titanium dioxide),

o Anti-acne products (salicylic acid),

o Anti-fungal creams,

o Anti-perspirants (aluminum compounds).

5. Cosmetic Excipients

Excipient Function Examples

Surfactants Cleansing, emulsifying, foaming agents SLS, polysorbates, coco betaine

Rheology Modifiers Control viscosity and texture Carbopol, xanthan gum, HPMC

Humectants Retain moisture, hydrate skin Glycerin, sorbitol, propylene glycol

Emollients Soften and smoothen skin Lanolin, mineral oil, shea butter

Preservatives Prevent microbial contamination Parabens, phenoxyethanol, benzyl alcohol

6. Basic Structure and Function of Skin

A. Structure of Skin:

1. Epidermis:

o Outermost layer.

o Contains keratinocytes, melanocytes.

o Functions: barrier protection, pigmentation.

2. Dermis:

o Contains collagen, elastin, sweat glands, sebaceous glands.

o Functions: support, elasticity, thermoregulation.

o Composed of fat and connective tissue.

o Functions: insulation, shock absorption.

B. Functions of Skin:

• Protection (against UV, microbes)

• Sensation (touch, pain, temperature)

• Thermoregulation (via sweat)

• Metabolic functions (vitamin D synthesis)

• Excretion (through sweat)

7. Basic Structure of Hair and Hair Growth Cycle

A. Structure of Hair:

1. Hair Shaft: Visible part; composed of keratin.

2. Hair Root: Embedded in the follicle.

3. Hair Follicle: Located in the dermis.

4. Sebaceous Gland: Secretes sebum to lubricate hair.

5. Hair Bulb: Base of follicle where cell division occurs.

B. Hair Growth Cycle:

1. Anagen (Growth Phase): Lasts 2–7 years.

2. Catagen (Transitional Phase): Lasts 2–3 weeks.

3. Telogen (Resting Phase): Lasts ~3 months.

4. Exogen (Shedding Phase): Hair falls and new hair grows.

8. Oral Cavity: Common Problems Associated with Teeth and Gums

Common Dental and Gum Problems:

Problem Description

Dental Caries (Cavities) Decay due to bacterial action on food sugars.

Gingivitis Inflammation of gums, early stage of gum disease.

Periodontitis Advanced gum disease affecting bone and tissues.

Halitosis (Bad breath) Often due to bacteria, poor hygiene, or dry mouth.

Plaque and Tartar Bacterial biofilm and hardened deposits on teeth.

Tooth Sensitivity Pain due to enamel erosion or gum recession.

Oral Ulcers Painful sores often caused by stress or injury.

Unit 2

Principles of Formulation and Building Blocks of Skin Care Products

1. Face Wash

Purpose: Cleanses skin by removing dirt, oil, and pollutants.

Key Components:

• Surfactants (cleansing): Sodium lauryl sulfate, cocamidopropyl betaine

• Conditioning agents: Aloe vera, panthenol

• pH Adjusters: Citric acid

• Preservatives: Parabens, phenoxyethanol

Advantages:

• Removes oil and dirt

• Prevents acne

• Refreshes skin

Disadvantages:

• Can be drying if overused

• Harsh surfactants may irritate sensitive skin

2. Moisturizing Cream

Purpose: Provides hydration by forming a barrier to prevent water loss.

Building Blocks:

• Occlusives: Petrolatum, dimethicone

• Humectants: Glycerin, urea, hyaluronic acid

• Emollients: Cetyl alcohol, shea butter

• Emulsifiers: Polysorbates

• Preservatives

Advantages:

• Hydrates dry skin

• Improves skin texture

Disadvantages:

• Can be greasy

• May clog pores if comedogenic

3. Cold Cream

Definition: Water-in-oil (w/o) emulsion for cleansing and moisturizing.

Key Ingredients:

• Beeswax, Mineral oil: Base

• Borax: Emulsifier

• Fragrance, Preservative

Advantages:

• Heavy moisturization

• Good for winter

Disadvantages:

• Greasy residue

• Not ideal for oily skin

Definition: Oil-in-water (o/w) emulsion that “vanishes” after application.

Key Ingredients:

• Stearic acid, Potassium hydroxide

• Glycerin: Humectant

• Perfume, Preservatives

Advantages:

• Non-greasy finish

• Ideal for oily skin

Disadvantages:

• Less moisturizing

• Not suitable for very dry skin

5. Application in Cosmeceuticals

• Face wash: Vehicles for acne ingredients like salicylic acid.

• Moisturizers: Delivery of actives like niacinamide, ceramides, retinol.

• Cold/Vanishing Creams: Base for medicated skin-lightening or anti-aging ingredients.

Antiperspirants & Deodorants

Actives and Mechanism of Action:

Type Active Ingredients Mechanism of Action

Antiperspirants Aluminum chlorohydrate, zirconium salts Block sweat glands (temporary plug formation)

Deodorants Triclosan, ethanol, zinc ricinoleate Inhibit bacterial growth and neutralize odor

Additional Components:

• Fragrance

• Emollients (propylene glycol)

• Carriers (aerosol, roll-on base)

Principles of Formulation and Building Blocks of Hair Care Products

1. Conditioning Shampoo

Dual function: Cleansing + conditioning

Key Ingredients:

• Surfactants: SLS, sodium laureth sulfate

• Conditioners: Silicone (dimethicone), quaternary compounds

• Humectants: Glycerin

• Pearlizing agents: Glycol distearate

Benefits:
 • Smooth hair after wash

• Reduces frizz

2. Hair Conditioner

Purpose: Provides softness, reduces static and breakage.

Ingredients:

• Fatty alcohols: Cetyl, stearyl

• Silicones: Dimethicone

• Cationic surfactants: Behentrimonium chloride

• Herbal extracts: Aloe, hibiscus

Mechanism: Deposits a conditioning layer on hair shaft

3. Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

Actives:

• Zinc pyrithione: Antifungal

• Ketoconazole: Broad-spectrum antifungal

• Salicylic acid: Keratolytic

• Coal tar: Slows skin cell turnover

Base:

• Mild surfactants, stabilizers, fragrance

4. Hair Oils

Function: Nourishment, lubrication, scalp health

Common Oils:

• Coconut oil: Penetrates cortex

• Mineral oil: Surface protection

• Amla, Bhringraj, Hibiscus: Herbal extracts for hair growth

Other Ingredients:

• Perfume, preservatives, antioxidants

5. Para-phenylenediamine (PPD) Based Hair Dye

Chemistry:

• PPD: Primary intermediate that forms color on oxidation

• Couplers: Resorcinol, m-aminophenol (produce different shades)

• Oxidant: Hydrogen peroxide (developer)

Mechanism:

• Oxidation of PPD in alkaline medium → reacts with couplers → produces dye complex inside hair shaft

Formulation:

• Cream or gel base with emulsifiers and stabilizers

Principles of Formulation and Building Blocks of Oral Care Products

1. Toothpaste for Bleeding Gums

Actives:

• Triclosan, Chlorhexidine: Antibacterial

• Fluoride: Cavity prevention

• Vitamin C, Herbal extracts (neem, clove): Improve gum health

Excipients:

• Abrasives (calcium carbonate)

• Humectants (sorbitol)

• Binding agents (CMC)

2. Toothpaste for Sensitive Teeth

Actives:

• Potassium nitrate: Nerve depolarization

• Strontium chloride: Tubule blocking

Excipients:

• Mild abrasives, non-ionic surfactants

• Flavoring agents (menthol, mint)

3. Teeth Whitening Toothpaste

Actives:

• Hydrogen peroxide: Bleaching agent

• Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate): Stain removal

Excipients:

• Abrasives (silica)

• Surfactants (SLS)

4. Mouthwash

Types:

• Therapeutic: Contains antimicrobials (chlorhexidine, cetylpyridinium chloride)

• Cosmetic: For temporary breath freshening

Other ingredients:

• Alcohol or alcohol-free base

• Flavoring agents

• Sweeteners (saccharin)

• Water and colorants

Unit 3
 Sun Protection, Classification of Sunscreens, and SPF

What is Sun Protection?

Sun protection refers to the measures taken to guard skin against ultraviolet (UV) radiation that causes:

• Sunburn

• Premature aging (photoaging)

• Hyperpigmentation

• Skin cancer

Classification of Sunscreens

Sunscreens are classified based on their mechanism of action and the type of UV rays they block.

1. Physical Sunscreens (Inorganic)

• Ingredients: Zinc oxide, Titanium dioxide

• Action: Reflect/scatter UV rays

• Pros: Broad-spectrum protection, non-irritating

• Cons: Thick, white cast, difficult to spread

2. Chemical Sunscreens (Organic)

• Ingredients: Oxybenzone, Avobenzone, Octinoxate, Octocrylene

• Action: Absorb UV radiation and convert it into heat

• Pros: Easy application, invisible finish

• Cons: May cause irritation or allergy, unstable under sunlight

3. Hybrid (Combination) Sunscreens

• Combine physical and chemical agents for improved protection and cosmetic elegance.

What is SPF (Sun Protection Factor)?

• Definition: SPF indicates the level of protection a sunscreen provides against UVB rays.

SPF Value Meaning:

SPF % UVB Blocked Usage

15 ~93% Basic protection

30 ~97% Standard dermatological recommendation

50 ~98% High protection

100 ~99% Maximal but marginal gain

Example: SPF 30 means it would take 30 times longer to redden your skin than without protection.

Note: SPF doesn't measure protection against UVA rays. For UVA, look for PA+ rating or "broad-spectrum" label.

Role of Herbs in Cosmetics

Skin Care Herbs

1. Aloe Vera

• Functions: Moisturizer, anti-inflammatory, soothing for burns

• Uses: Lotions, gels, creams, after-sun products

2. Turmeric (Curcuma longa)

• Functions: Antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-acne, skin brightening

• Actives: Curcumin

• Uses: Face masks, anti-acne creams, fairness creams

Hair Care Herbs

1. Henna (Lawsonia inermis)

• Functions: Natural hair dye, cooling agent, anti-dandruff

• Actives: Lawsone (naphthoquinone)

• Uses: Hair coloring powders, shampoos, masks

2. Amla (Phyllanthus emblica)

• Functions: Hair growth stimulant, strengthens roots, delays greying

• Actives: Vitamin C, tannins, flavonoids

• Uses: Hair oils, tonics, herbal shampoos

Oral Care Herbs

1. Neem (Azadirachta indica)

• Functions: Antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory

• Actives: Nimbin, azadirachtin

• Uses: Toothpaste for bleeding gums, anti-plaque rinses

2. Clove (Syzygium aromaticum)

• Functions: Analgesic, antibacterial, anti-cavity

• Actives: Eugenol

• Uses: Toothpaste for toothache relief, mouthwash, gum pain gels

Analytical Cosmetics: BIS Specification and Analytical Methods

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) provides standard guidelines to ensure the quality, safety, and efficacy of cosmetic products.

1. Shampoo (IS 4011:1997)

Parameters for Evaluation:

• pH (between 4.5–7)

• Foam height

• Surface tension

• Dirt dispersion test

• Solid content (%)

• Viscosity

• Eye irritation test (Draize test)

• pH: Digital pH meter

• Foam test: Cylinder shake method

• Solid content: Evaporation and weighing

2. Skin Cream (IS 6608:2004)

Parameters:

• Homogeneity

• Viscosity

• Spreadability

• Type of emulsion (O/W or W/O)

• Microbial load

Analytical Methods:

• Type of emulsion: Dilution test, dye solubility

• Microbial analysis: Plate count method

• Spreadability: Parallel plate method

3. Toothpaste (IS 6356:1993)

Key Parameters:

• Abrasiveness (RDA value)

• Fluoride content

• pH (5.5–10.5)

• Foaming property

• Heavy metals (Pb, As)

• Microbial limits

Analytical Methods:

• Fluoride test: Ion-selective electrode method

• Heavy metals: AAS (Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy)

• Microbial limits: Total plate count, fungal count, absence of pathogens

Unit 4

Principles of Sebumeter

Purpose: A Sebumeter is used to quantify the amount of sebum (skin oil) present on the skin’s surface. Excess sebum can lead to acne, while
insufficient sebum can result in dry skin.

How It Works:

• The Sebumeter uses a photoelectric sensor to measure the light reflection on the skin's surface.

• The sebum absorbs light differently than the skin, which allows the device to measure the amount of sebum.

• Results are displayed in units called sebum secretion rate (SFR), often represented as a percentage or an arbitrary unit.

Applications:

• Assessing the oiliness of skin

• Monitoring moisturizing products for skin hydration balance

2. Principles of Corneometer

Purpose: The Corneometer measures the skin hydration level or moisture content in the stratum corneum (outermost layer of the skin).

How It Works:

• It uses the principle of capacitance measurement: The device measures the skin’s ability to store an electrical charge.

• The skin's hydration affects its capacitance; more hydrated skin has a higher capacitance.

• The device provides a quantitative measurement of the water content in the skin and is often displayed in arbitrary units.

Applications:

• Hydration monitoring: Evaluating the effectiveness of moisturizers and hydrating skincare products

• Treatment efficacy: To measure the improvement in skin hydration over time

• Pre-treatment and post-treatment evaluations: Helps assess skin before and after using hydrating or moisturizing formulations

3. Measurement of Trans-Epidermal Water Loss (TEWL)

Purpose: TEWL is a measure of the water lost through the epidermis to the surrounding environment. It is an indicator of skin barrier function
and overall skin health.

How It Works:

• The TEWL meter measures the amount of water vapor that escapes the skin by using a capacitive sensor that detects the water
gradient between the skin and the environment.

• The sensor detects the evaporation rate, providing a reading of water loss per unit of skin area (typically in g/h/m²).

• Higher TEWL values suggest a compromised skin barrier, which may be due to dryness, inflammation, or external irritants.

Applications:

• Assessing the effectiveness of products designed to repair or strengthen the skin barrier (e.g., moisturizers, barrier creams)

• Measuring skin hydration levels and the effectiveness of products for dry skin

• Monitoring skin condition during clinical studies or cosmetic treatments

4. Measurement of Skin Color

Purpose: Skin color is an important parameter to evaluate in products designed for skin tone, tanning, or pigmentation correction.

How It Works:

• Colorimeters or spectrophotometers are commonly used to measure skin color.

• These devices use light reflection techniques and analyze the intensity and wavelength of light reflected from the skin.

• The Lab scale (L, a, b*)** and Melanin and Erythema Index are the common scales used to quantify skin color:

o L*: Lightness (from black to white)

o a*: Red-green axis

o b*: Yellow-blue axis

Applications:

• Monitoring the effectiveness of skin lightening or tanning products

• Evaluating changes in skin color during the use of anti-aging or anti-pigmentation treatments

• Assessing skin damage or hyperpigmentation (e.g., freckles, age spots)

Purpose: Hair tensile strength refers to the force required to stretch a hair strand to its breaking point. It is a key indicator of hair health,
strength, and damage resistance.

How It Works:

• The tensile strength tester grips the hair at both ends and applies increasing force until the hair breaks.

• The force at the point of breakage is recorded as tensile strength.

• The device measures the force in grams or Newtons.

Applications:

• Evaluating the effectiveness of hair strengthening products (shampoos, conditioners, serums)

• Testing hair damage (from chemicals, heat styling)

• Monitoring hair’s response to treatments like protein treatments or keratin masks

6. Hair Combing Properties

Purpose: Combing properties refer to how easily hair can be combed or detangled after washing. This is an important parameter for assessing
the effectiveness of conditioning products.

How It Works:

• Combing tests evaluate the force required to comb the hair.

• Instruments such as a combability tester measure the friction between the comb and the hair.

• The detangling ability is also measured, and subjective assessments may include smoothness, shininess, and static buildup.

Applications:

• Evaluating conditioners, detangling sprays, and other hair care products

• Testing moisturizing properties of shampoos

• Assessing hair damage repair from heat or environmental factors

7. Soaps and Syndet Bars: Evolution and Skin Benefits

Soaps:

• Composition: Typically made by the reaction of alkali (sodium hydroxide) with fatty acids from natural oils (like coconut or palm oil).

• Properties:

o Cleansing: Removes dirt and oil from the skin

o pH: Traditional soaps are usually alkaline, which may strip the skin of natural oils, potentially causing dryness or irritation.

Syndet Bars (Synthetic Detergent Bars):

• Composition: Made from synthetic surfactants rather than natural fats and oils.

• Properties:

o Milder on skin: Typically neutral or slightly acidic pH, making them suitable for sensitive skin types.

o Less drying: Because they don’t strip the skin's natural oils as much as traditional soap.

o No soap scum: Do not leave residues like traditional soaps.

Evolution and Skin Benefits:

• Soaps: Once the primary form of cleansing, soaps are being replaced by syndet bars in many formulations due to their gentler nature
on the skin.
 • Syndet Bars:

o Moisturize and hydrate due to their balanced pH and mild surfactants.

o Beneficial for sensitive or dry skin, as they help maintain the skin's natural moisture balance.

Unit 5

1. Oily and Dry Skin: Causes and Skin Moisturization

Oily Skin:

• Definition: Oily skin is characterized by an excessive production of sebum (skin's natural oil) that can lead to a shiny appearance,
enlarged pores, and a higher likelihood of developing acne or blackheads.

• Causes:

o Hormonal changes: During puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or due to conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS),
hormonal fluctuations lead to excess sebum production.

o Genetics: Inherited tendency to produce more oil.

o Environmental factors: Humidity and hot weather can stimulate sebaceous glands to produce more oil.

o Diet: Consumption of oily, greasy foods may exacerbate oil production.

Dry Skin:

• Definition: Dry skin occurs when the skin lacks sufficient moisture and sebum, leading to a dull, flaky, and tight feeling.

• Causes:

o Weather conditions: Cold, windy, and low-humidity environments can strip the skin of moisture.

o Aging: With age, the skin produces less oil and moisture.

o Dehydration: Lack of proper hydration in the body can lead to dry skin.

o Harsh skincare products: Overuse of strong soaps, alcohol-based toners, or products that strip moisture from the skin can
lead to dryness.

o Underlying medical conditions: Conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and hypothyroidism can contribute to dry skin.

Skin Moisturization:

• Purpose: The primary goal of moisturizing is to restore and maintain skin hydration by enhancing the skin's natural barrier function.

• Types of Moisturizers:

o Humectants: Attract water to the skin (e.g., glycerin, hyaluronic acid).

o Emollients: Fill in the gaps between skin cells, making the skin feel smooth (e.g., fatty acids, lanolin).

o Occlusives: Form a barrier on the skin to lock in moisture (e.g., petrolatum, dimethicone).

• Application: Moisturizers should be applied after cleansing while the skin is still damp to lock in moisture.

2. Basic Understanding of Terms: Comedogenic and Dermatitis

Comedogenic:

• Definition: Comedogenic refers to substances or products that have the potential to clog pores, leading to the formation of
comedones (acne lesions such as blackheads or whiteheads).

• Importance: People with acne-prone skin should avoid comedogenic products, which include heavy oils, certain moisturizers, and
foundations that may exacerbate breakouts.

Dermatitis:

• Definition: Dermatitis is a general term for inflammation of the skin, characterized by redness, irritation, itching, and in severe cases,
blistering or peeling.

• Types:
 o Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema): A chronic skin condition causing itchy, inflamed skin, often triggered by allergens, stress, or
irritants.

o Contact Dermatitis: Skin inflammation caused by direct contact with an irritant or allergen (e.g., soaps, fragrances, or plants
like poison ivy).

o Seborrheic Dermatitis: A form of eczema affecting the scalp, face, and other oil-rich areas, often resulting in dandruff or
flaky, greasy skin.

3. Cosmetic Problems Associated with Hair and Scalp

Dandruff:

• Cause: Malassezia, a type of yeast, can overgrow on the scalp, causing irritation, flakiness, and itching. Other factors include dry skin,
oily scalp, and sensitivity to hair products.

• Management: Use of anti-fungal or anti-dandruff shampoos containing ingredients like zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide, or
ketoconazole.

Hair Fall:

• Causes:

o Genetics: Androgenic alopecia (male or female pattern baldness) is the most common cause.

o Hormonal changes: Pregnancy, menopause, thyroid imbalances, or stress can trigger hair loss.

o Nutrient deficiency: Lack of iron, biotin, or vitamin D can lead to thinning or shedding.

o Environmental factors: Pollution, UV rays, and harsh chemicals in hair products can damage hair and contribute to fall.

o Poor scalp health: Conditions like dandruff, fungal infections, or scalp irritation can lead to hair loss.

4. Cosmetic Problems Associated with Skin

Blemishes:

• Definition: Blemishes refer to spots, scars, or marks on the skin, often caused by acne, sun exposure, or hyperpigmentation.

• Management: Products containing salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, or vitamin C can help reduce blemishes and even out
skin tone.

Wrinkles:

• Cause: Wrinkles develop due to a loss of collagen and elastin in the skin, caused by aging, UV exposure, and environmental factors.

• Management: Anti-aging creams with retinoids, peptides, or hyaluronic acid can reduce fine lines and improve skin elasticity.

Acne:

• Cause: Acne is caused by clogged pores, excess oil production, and bacterial infection, leading to inflammation and pustules.

• Management: Use of products containing salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or retinoids can help control acne.

Prickly Heat:

• Cause: Blocked sweat ducts cause the sweat to get trapped under the skin, leading to redness, itching, and rashes.

• Management: Keeping the skin cool, dry, and using soothing calamine lotion can provide relief.

Body Odor:

• Cause: Body odor is primarily caused by the breakdown of sweat by bacteria on the skin.

• Management: Antiperspirants and deodorants can help reduce body odor.

5. Antiperspirants and Deodorants: Actives and Mechanism of Action

Antiperspirants:
 • Active Ingredients: The primary active ingredients in antiperspirants are aluminum-based compounds such as aluminum chloride,
aluminum chlorohydrate, or aluminum zirconium.

• Mechanism of Action:

o These compounds work by blocking sweat glands. They form a gel-like plug in the sweat ducts, preventing the release of
sweat.

o This leads to a reduction in sweat production, thus preventing body odor associated with sweating.

Deodorants:

• Active Ingredients: Deodorants often contain antimicrobial agents like triclosan, silver ions, or alcohol, which target the bacteria
that cause body odor.

• Mechanism of Action:

o Deodorants mask or neutralize odors produced by bacteria.

o They do not block sweating but help reduce the smell associated with sweat by killing odor-causing bacteria.