Safety evaluation of gums and thickeners used in cosmetic formulations

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
Safety tests were carried out on gums and thickeners, continuing a study involving commonly used cosmetic ingredients. The ocular and cutaneous tolerance tests were conducted on the rabbit. The test substances were products from various suppliers and of different types and grades. None of the 50 samples tested provoked pathological lesions of the ocular mucous membrane; corneal irritation was noted with silicates, silica and bentonite, probably due to mechanical effect, when applied at relatively high concentration. The highest score on the primary cutaneous irritancy test (moderately irritant) was that for the gelled volatile hydrocarbon solvents. The repeated application test was continued for 6 wk; no significant pathological reaction was observed. Only a slight intolerance was noted with the gels of volatile hydrocarbons and isopropyl myristate, but the irritant reactions were significantly reduced compared to those previously observed with the pure oils. Apparently, the use of these gums and thickeners presents no hazard for the skin.