Objective

The objective of this project is to evaluate the effectiveness and skin tolerability of specialized skin protection creams designed to facilitate subsequent skin cleansing. The study will scientifically assess both the cleansing-facilitating performance of these products and their potential to induce skin irritation or impair skin barrier function. It aims to generate robust scientific evidence on the efficacy and skin tolerability of cleansing-facilitating skin protection creams. The findings will support evidence-based counseling and decision-making in the prevention of occupational skin disease, contribute to the assessment of potential health risks, and provide a scientific basis for updating and supplementing existing prevention standards and recommendations within the statutory workers’ compensation insurance system.

Initial Situation

In certain occupational activities, the use of protective gloves is not feasible, so special skin protection products with cleansing-facilitating properties are recommended by manufacturer to facilitate skin cleansing. However, independent scientific evidence regarding both their actual effectiveness and potential adverse effects remains limited. In particular, concerns have been raised about the possible impact of emulsifiers and surfactants contained in these products on skin barrier integrity and skin health.

Study Instruments

The present study will build upon and further develop the validated methodologies established in DGUV research projects FP 275, which investigated the efficacy of skin protection products, and FP 276, which evaluated the efficacy and irritation potential of skin cleansing products.

Using randomized, repeated irritation models, the skin responses of healthy volunteers to leading, commercially available skin protection creams with cleansing-facilitating properties will be assessed. Particular emphasis will be placed on evaluating both the cleansing-facilitating efficacy of these products and their effects on skin barrier integrity.

Early alterations in skin barrier function and inflammatory responses will be quantified using a combination of clinical assessments and non-invasive skin physiological measurement techniques. This approach will enable a comprehensive evaluation of both the protective benefits and potential irritation risks associated with these products.