Assessment of the Subclinical Irritation of Surfactants: A Screening Open Assay Model

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Abstract
Background: Open application utilizing an exaggerated forearm washing model to determine surfactant subclinical irritant effects has limitations. Objective: A modified screening open model for rapid assessment of surfactant subclinical irritation was used as part of a validation process. Methods: Eight subjects were enrolled and 5 candidate surfactants studied. Sodium lauryl sulfate served as the irritant ‘gold standard’ control. In addition, one site for water washing and one site for normal skin (no treatment) were also included. A technician conducted 3 successive washings with each test surfactant to each volar forearm. Skin irritation and subclinical irritations were assessed with visual scores and bioengineering (transepidermal water loss, skin capacitance and skin color). Squamometry was performed after the last wash. Results: Squamometry provided a sensitive assessment for detecting surfactant-induced subclinical irritation with 3 successive washings in this open assay model. Neither clinical scores nor other biometric methods provided valuable biologic insight. Conclusion: This minimally invasive assay provides a facile and robust means to rank detergent irritant effects in man.