Daily facial skincare formulations : benefits and risks

Abstract

The use of skincare products is on the increase. On the market, there is a wide range of brands that are suitable for the whole consumer population. Due to the limited requirements for the good manufacturing of such products, the exposure of the consumer to potential benefits and risks is not normally taken into account. Five facial formulations from five brands were taken as an example to determine their potential benefits and risks. The characteristics of the twenty-five samples were studied by considering the unit price, the dry matter content, and color characteristics. The polyphenolic content, antioxidant activity, and heavy metal content were determined. The brands were categorized into high and low-end products. The dry matter content was significantly low for toners and in general cleansers and toners were colorless formulations whereas moisturizers, sunblocks, and eye creams were white in color, with some exceptions. Most of the formulations contained polyphenols, however, the anti-oxidant activity correlated weakly with polyphenols eluding that there are other anti-oxidant substances present. In general, the prod- ucts contained a number of heavy metals (Cr, Cu, Fe, Ni, Pb, Zn) however all were devoid of Cd and Co. This study reveals that there are no significant differences in quality in terms of polyphenols, antioxidant activity, and heavy metal contamination. Authorities should consider stricter standards on the production of cosmetics, particularly those that are used on a daily basis.