INTRODUCTION
The stratum corneum serves as the primary physical barrier of the skin, protecting against environmental insults, microbial invasion, and transepidermal water loss (TEWL).1 This outermost epidermal layer consists of corneocytes embedded within a lipid-rich intercellular matrix ("brick and mortar" model), and its integrity is essential for skin homeostasis.2
Cleansing products are among the most frequently used topical formulations worldwide, and their interaction with the skin is determined largely by the type and concentration of surfactants they contain.3-5 Although surfactants enable the removal of dirt and sebum, conventional anionic surfactants, most notably sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), can solubilize intercellular lipids, denature stratum corneum proteins, and induce inflammatory responses.6,7 Barrier disruption from certain surfactant-based cleansers can contribute to adverse cutaneous responses, ranging from subclinical irritation to clinically evident contact dermatitis.6 Additionally, the concentration of surfactants, pH, and other components of the final formula can all contribute to the overall mildness of a cleanser.
Sensitive skin is common, affecting up to 70% of people globally, and it can be associated with meaningful quality-of-life impacts for affected individuals.8,9 Sensitive skin is often characterized by heightened reactivity to topical agents and environmental stimuli, producing symptoms such as stinging, burning, tightness, and erythema in response to products typically tolerated by the general population.10-12 Proposed mechanisms of this heightened reactivity include impaired barrier function, increased TEWL, and heightened neurosensory responsiveness, which together may increase susceptibility to irritation from surfactant-based cleansing formulations.10-12
Consequently, selecting a cleanser that effectively removes impurities while preserving barrier integrity is foundational to managing sensitive skin and developing a tailored skincare regimen.13 Topical cosmetic formulations can influence stratum corneum hydration and epidermal barrier function; barrier-supportive product selection, therefore, remains an important consideration in individualized at-home skincare routines.14,15
Cleansing products are among the most frequently used topical formulations worldwide, and their interaction with the skin is determined largely by the type and concentration of surfactants they contain.3-5 Although surfactants enable the removal of dirt and sebum, conventional anionic surfactants, most notably sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), can solubilize intercellular lipids, denature stratum corneum proteins, and induce inflammatory responses.6,7 Barrier disruption from certain surfactant-based cleansers can contribute to adverse cutaneous responses, ranging from subclinical irritation to clinically evident contact dermatitis.6 Additionally, the concentration of surfactants, pH, and other components of the final formula can all contribute to the overall mildness of a cleanser.
Sensitive skin is common, affecting up to 70% of people globally, and it can be associated with meaningful quality-of-life impacts for affected individuals.8,9 Sensitive skin is often characterized by heightened reactivity to topical agents and environmental stimuli, producing symptoms such as stinging, burning, tightness, and erythema in response to products typically tolerated by the general population.10-12 Proposed mechanisms of this heightened reactivity include impaired barrier function, increased TEWL, and heightened neurosensory responsiveness, which together may increase susceptibility to irritation from surfactant-based cleansing formulations.10-12
Consequently, selecting a cleanser that effectively removes impurities while preserving barrier integrity is foundational to managing sensitive skin and developing a tailored skincare regimen.13 Topical cosmetic formulations can influence stratum corneum hydration and epidermal barrier function; barrier-supportive product selection, therefore, remains an important consideration in individualized at-home skincare routines.14,15
