We thoroughly studied 50 randomly selected cosmetic products for their composition and defined the function of each individual ingredient. First we studied cosmetic active ingredients that work against dandruff, we clasified them according to their mechanism of action. The most commonly used cosmetic active ingredient was synthesized piroctone olamine, which appeared in 32 % of all products, and among the natural, the one that appeared the most was aloe vera extract, which we found in 16 % of all products reviewed. We also focused on surfactants and classified them into 4 groups (anionic, cationic, nonionic, amphoteric). Examining these substances, there was a domination of non-ionic substances, which represented 62 % of all surfactants, and the least common ones were cationic, with only 10 %, which is also appropriate because they are considered the most irritating. We also researched ingredients which have a moisturizing effect on the skin and placed them in groups of emollients, humectants and occlusives. Among the humectants, glycerol was the dominant ingredient, accounting for 48 % of all products and thus one of the most commonly used ingredient in our range. The most common emollient was glyceryl oleate, and dimethicone among the occlusives. We have also identified the most commonly used preservatives, antioxidants, thickeners and fragrances. We also checked whether the products include also those ones that have been proven to cause unwanted hypersensitivity reactions. These fragrances are located in Annex III of Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009. For the purpose of microbiological protection, the most commonly used preservative was sodium benzoate, a representative of 32 % of all products, and among the antioxidants the most commonly found was tocopherol or vitamin E.
|
