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Lotion
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Lotion and shampoo at the Banff Centre

Lotion is a low-viscosity topical preparation intended for application to the skin. By contrast, creams and gels have higher viscosity, typically due to lower water content.[1][2] Lotions are applied to external skin with bare hands, a brush, a clean cloth, or cotton wool.

While a lotion may be used as a medicine delivery system, many lotions, especially hand lotions and body lotions and lotion for allergies are meant instead to simply smooth, moisturize, soften and, sometimes, perfume the skin.[3]

Medicine delivery

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A puddle of pink lotion
Calamine lotion is used to treat itching.

Dermatologists can prescribe lotions to treat or prevent skin diseases.[1] It is not unusual for the same drug ingredient to be formulated into a lotion, cream and ointment. Creams are the most convenient of the three but inappropriate for application to regions of hairy skin such as the scalp, while a lotion is less viscous and may be readily applied to these areas (many medicated shampoos are in fact lotions). Historically, lotions also had an advantage in that they may be spread thinly compared to a cream or ointment and may economically cover a large area of skin, but product research has steadily eroded this distinction. Non-comedogenic lotions are recommended to put on acne prone skin.[4]

Lotions can be used for the delivery to the skin of medications such as:

Occupational use

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Since health care workers must wash their hands frequently to prevent disease transmission, hospital-grade lotion is recommended to prevent skin dermatitis caused by frequent exposure to cleaning agents in the soap.[5] A 2006 study found that application of hospital-grade lotion after hand washing significantly reduced skin roughness and dryness.[6][failed verification]

Care must be taken not to use consumer lotions in a hospital environment, as the perfumes and allergens may be a danger to those who are immunodeficient or with allergies.[7][8]

Cosmetic uses

[edit]

Most cosmetic lotions are moisturizing lotions, although other forms, such as tanning lotion, also exist.

Cosmetic lotions may be marketed as anti-aging lotions, which can also be classified as a cosmetic in many cases, and may contain fragrances. The Food and Drug Administration voiced concern about lotions not classified as drugs that advertise anti-aging or anti-wrinkle properties.[7][9]

Production

[edit]

Most lotions are oil-in-water emulsions using a substance such as cetearyl alcohol to keep the emulsion together, but water-in-oil lotions are also formulated. The key components of a skin care lotion, cream or gel emulsion (that is mixtures of oil and water) are the aqueous and oily phases, an emulsifier to prevent separation of these two phases, and, if used, the drug substance or substances. Various other ingredients such as fragrances, glycerol, petroleum jelly, dyes, preservatives, proteins and stabilizing agents are commonly added to lotions.

Manufacturing lotions and creams can be completed in two cycles:

  • Emollients and lubricants are dispersed in oil with blending and thickening agents.
  • Perfume, color and preservatives are dispersed in the water cycle. Active ingredients are broken up in both cycles depending on the raw materials involved and the desired properties of the lotion or cream.

A typical oil-in-water manufacturing process may be:

  • Step 1: Add flake/powder ingredients to the oil being used to prepare the oil phase.
  • Step 2: Disperse active ingredients.
  • Step 3: Prepare the water phase containing emulsifiers and stabilizers.
  • Step 4: Mix the oil and water to form an emulsion. (Note: This is aided by heating to between 110 and 185 F (45-85 C) depending on the formulation and viscosity desired.)
  • Step 5: Continue mixing until the end product is 'completed'

Potential health risks

[edit]

Acne

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Depending on their composition, lotions can be comedogenic, meaning that they can result in the increased formation of comedones (clogged hair follicles).[10] People who are prone to acne or forming comedones often prefer lotions that are designed to be non-comedogenic (not causing outbreaks).[10]

Systemic absorption

[edit]

All topical products, including lotions, can result in the percutaneous (through the skin) absorption of their ingredients. Though this has some use as a route of drug administration, it more commonly results in unintended side effects. For example, medicated lotions such as diprolene are often used with the intention of exerting only local effects, but absorption of the drug through the skin can occur to a small degree, resulting in systemic side effects such as hyperglycemia and glycosuria.[11]

Absorption through the skin is increased when lotions are applied and then covered with an occlusive layer, when they are applied to large areas of the body, or when they are applied to damaged or broken skin.[11]

Allergens

[edit]

Lotions containing some aromas or food additives may trigger an immune reaction or even cause users to develop new allergies.[12]

There is currently no regulation over use of the term "hypoallergenic", and even pediatric skin products with the label were found to still contain allergens.[13] Those with eczema are especially vulnerable to an allergic reaction with lotion, as their compromised skin barrier allows preservatives to bind with and activate immune cells.[14]

The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology released a warning in 2014 that natural lotion containing ingredients commonly found in food (such as goats milk, cow's milk, coconut milk, or oil) may introduce new allergies, and an allergic reaction when those foods are later consumed.[12] A 2021 study found that "frequent skin moisturization in early life might promote the development of food allergy, most likely through transcutaneous sensitization".[15]

See also

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References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Lotion

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Lotion is a low-viscosity topical preparation, typically an , designed for application to the skin to hydrate, soften, and protect it by restoring the natural and increasing . As a , lotion is intended to enhance skin appearance through moisturizing effects, though formulations claiming to treat or prevent conditions, such as those with or therapeutic agents, are regulated as drugs. Commonly formulated with a base of water and dispersed oils, lotions incorporate key ingredients including humectants like glycerin and to attract moisture, occlusives such as petrolatum or dimethicone to seal in hydration, and emollients like or ceramides to smooth the skin surface. These components work synergistically to maintain the stratum corneum's optimal water content of 10-30%, preventing dryness, irritation, and conditions like eczema or xerosis. Unlike thicker creams or ointments, lotions are lighter and less occlusive, making them suitable for everyday use on larger body areas. Lotions vary by purpose and formulation, including body lotions for general hydration, hand lotions for frequent washing-induced dryness, and specialized types like those with added UV filters for sun or anti-inflammatory agents for sensitive . Their development traces back to ancient practices of using natural oils and fats for , evolving into modern emulsions stabilized by emulsifiers to ensure even application and absorption without greasiness. Widely used across demographics, lotions support health by mitigating environmental stressors and promoting suppleness, with efficacy depending on consistent application and compatibility with individual types.

Overview

Definition and Classification

A lotion is a low- to medium-viscosity topical preparation designed for application to the skin, typically formulated as a liquid or semi-liquid consisting of dispersed in water (oil-in-water) or, less commonly, water in , with a high water content often exceeding 50% along with volatiles for a fluid consistency. These preparations are intended to deliver active ingredients or provide basic through direct cutaneous contact, distinguishing them from thicker or more solid forms by their pourable nature and ease of dispensing. The term "lotion" derives from the Latin lotio, meaning "a washing" or "bathing," reflecting its historical association with liquid cleansing or soothing applications. In modern pharmaceutical and cosmetic contexts, lotions are classified primarily by relative to other topical vehicles, falling between highly solutions and thicker semisolids like creams or ointments. They exhibit lower than creams (which are semisolid ) and ointments (greasy, high- bases), but higher than gels (transparent, single-phase or low- dispersions), enabling better flow and coverage on larger areas. Gels differ from lotions in lacking an emulsion structure, while ointments prioritize occlusivity over spreadability. Key physical properties of lotions include high spreadability due to their reduced , which allows even distribution without excessive rubbing, and a rapid absorption rate facilitated by the evaporative cooling from their aqueous phase. Unlike ointments, lotions provide a non-greasy feel upon application, as their lower oil content (typically 10-15%) minimizes residue while still offering mild occlusion to retain . These attributes make lotions suitable for quick-drying applications on intact . Lotions are further classified by function into categories such as emollient (to soften and hydrate the skin barrier), therapeutic (to deliver medicinal agents for targeted effects), and protective (to shield against irritants or environmental damage). Emollient lotions emphasize humectants and occlusives for moisture retention, while therapeutic variants incorporate active pharmaceuticals, and protective ones focus on barrier-forming ingredients, though all share the core emulsion base for compatibility with skin.

History

The origins of lotions trace back to ancient civilizations, where natural substances were blended for skin protection and moisturization. In ancient Egypt around 1500 BCE, formulations combining oils like castor, moringa, , and with herbs such as and were commonly applied to combat dry skin and sun exposure. Ancient and Romans built on these practices, using oil-based preparations and mixtures with and other natural ingredients for both cosmetic and therapeutic purposes. During the medieval and periods in , skincare advanced through herbal infusions and emerging techniques. Monks and physicians like Trotula de Ruggiero in the 12th century documented recipes using over 40 herbs, minerals, and animal derivatives—such as rosewater, , and —for lotions to treat irritations and maintain , preserving knowledge from earlier Islamic scholars. By the (14th–17th centuries), , introduced via Arabic influences, enabled the production of essential oils and hydrosols for more refined herbal lotions, blending art, medicine, and emerging science in formulations applied by . The 19th century marked the industrialization of lotions, with innovations in emulsifiers and preservatives facilitating mass production. Beeswax had long served as a natural emulsifier since ancient times, but early 19th-century developments like the 1846 invention of Pond's Extract, a witch hazel-based remedy that paved the way for commercial skincare products like the later Pond's Cold Cream, introduced stable commercial lotions for widespread use. Synthetic preservatives emerged around this time, extending shelf life and enabling global distribution, while products like Gowland's Lotion (early 1800s) exemplified early commercial skincare blends. In the , lotions saw significant milestones, including the post-World War II boom driven by synthetic ingredients and expanded consumer access. The 1940s–1950s witnessed a surge in cosmetic lotions incorporating petrochemical-derived emollients and stabilizers, fueling industry growth amid rising beauty standards. A key invention was the modern lotion, formulated in the early 1900s as a zinc oxide and suspension to relieve skin irritations like rashes, building on ancient uses but standardized for commercial production. Entering the , consumer demand for transparency and prompted a shift toward natural and organic formulations, with the global organic skincare market growing at approximately 9% annually as of 2025 due to concerns over synthetics. As of 2025, the industry continues to innovate with biotech ingredients and stricter standards, driven by consumer demand for eco-friendly lotions.

Uses

Medical Applications

Lotions function as effective vehicles for topical in , enabling therapeutic agents to penetrate the skin for localized treatment while bypassing systemic circulation and reducing the risk of widespread side effects. This approach targets conditions directly at the site of application, promoting absorption through the without the need for oral or injectable administration. Common medical lotions include , which relieves itching, pain, and discomfort from minor skin irritations such as those caused by , , poison sumac, insect bites, and . lotion is widely used to alleviate redness, swelling, itching, and other discomforts associated with inflammatory skin conditions like eczema and . Antifungal lotions, such as those containing clotrimazole, treat fungal infections including ringworm, , jock itch, and by inhibiting fungal growth on the skin. Additionally, keratolytic lotions with address by unclogging pores and reducing inflammation, and by promoting the shedding of scaly skin patches. In dermatological practice, lotions are applied to manage conditions like atopic dermatitis (eczema), where they restore skin barrier function and reduce flare-ups; psoriasis, aiding in scale removal and symptom control; and acne, facilitating exfoliation and lesion resolution. For wound care in dermatology, emollient-based lotions help maintain moisture in healing skin, preventing dryness and supporting epithelialization in superficial wounds or post-procedure sites. Compared to ointments, lotions offer advantages such as easier spread over large or hairy areas, less greasiness for patient comfort, and reduced occlusion, which minimizes the risk of maceration while still providing adequate hydration. Clinical evidence supports the efficacy of lotions in these applications; for instance, studies on nonprescription moisturizing lotions for demonstrate significant improvements in skin barrier function and reduced disease severity with twice-daily use in both adults and children. In psoriasis management, lotions have shown effectiveness as adjunctive , enhancing plaque clearance when combined with other topicals. These findings underscore lotions' role in improving patient outcomes through targeted, non-invasive .

Cosmetic Applications

In cosmetics, lotions primarily serve to moisturize and soften the skin by forming a protective barrier that retains natural oils and prevents water loss, often incorporating humectants such as to draw moisture into the . These formulations enhance skin suppleness and smoothness, contributing to a more youthful appearance without addressing underlying medical conditions. Additionally, SPF-infused lotions provide broad-spectrum protection, shielding the skin from effects like fine lines and while allowing daily wear as part of beauty routines. Common types include body lotions for general hydration across larger areas, hand lotions targeting frequent exposure to drying elements, and after-sun lotions designed to soothe and restore post-exposure with lightweight, cooling textures. Formulations are tailored to specific types, such as oil-free variants for oily or acne-prone to avoid clogging pores, and richer emulsions with emollients like for dry or mature to lock in moisture. Market trends reflect a surge in clean beauty preferences, with plant-based ingredients like and botanical extracts gaining prominence in lotion formulations to appeal to eco-conscious consumers avoiding synthetic additives. The global clean beauty sector, encompassing such products, was valued at USD 8.25 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 21.29 billion by 2030, driven by demand for sustainable options. Usage remains widespread, with approximately 93% of surveyed women in major markets incorporating moisturizers like lotions into their routines, and 80% applying them one to two times daily as of 2023 data. Optimal application involves layering lotions after lighter serums, starting with the thinnest consistency and allowing 1-2 minutes for absorption before adding thicker products to maximize efficacy without pilling. Daily use, typically post-cleansing and before makeup, ensures consistent hydration, though frequency may increase to twice daily in low-humidity environments for sustained results. Cultural variations influence lotion preferences, with consumers in arid regions like the or Southwest Asia favoring heavier emollient-based formulas to combat intense dryness and evaporation. In contrast, tropical areas such as emphasize lightweight, non-greasy lotions integrated into multi-step routines like Japanese layering techniques, prioritizing barrier repair and glow.

Occupational and Industrial Applications

Lotions formulated for occupational and industrial use, commonly known as barrier creams or protective lotions, are designed to create a temporary impermeable layer on the skin, shielding it from irritants, chemicals, and mechanical stresses. These products differ from general-purpose moisturizers by incorporating ingredients like dimethicone or silicates that form a robust , allowing workers to maintain during exposure to hazards such as solvents, oils, and repeated washing. In professions involving wet work, such as healthcare and food service, water-based barrier lotions are applied before shifts to prevent moisture loss and irritant penetration, with formulations that absorb rapidly to avoid residue under gloves or during protocols. For and industrial laborers handling grease and lubricants, specialized lotions containing mild solvents or absorbents facilitate grease removal post-exposure while depositing a protective against oil-based contaminants. Regulatory frameworks emphasize the integration of these lotions into broader protection strategies. Under OSHA's general requirements for (29 CFR 1910.132), skin creams are acknowledged as supplementary measures for non-hazardous exposures, though they must complement gloves and other PPE in chemical environments. In the , although protective creams are not classified as under Regulation (EU) 2016/425, European guidelines on occupational recommend their use as part of skin protection strategies in risk assessments for high-risk occupations such as and . Clinical studies demonstrate the preventive value of these lotions, with regular application linked to reduced incidence of occupational . A Cochrane review suggests that barrier creams and moisturizers may lower the risk of hand in at-risk workers over 6-12 months, although the evidence is of low quality with non-significant results. Another prospective in healthcare settings reported improved and fewer cases among users of protective hand creams compared to controls. Over time, formulations have evolved from simple petroleum-based occlusives, which provided basic hydration but limited , to advanced silicone-infused variants that offer durable, selective barriers against both aqueous and lipophilic irritants without occluding pores.

Composition and Formulation

Key Ingredients

Lotions are primarily composed of an aqueous phase, which typically constitutes 70-90% of the formulation and serves as the base for dissolving water-soluble ingredients. in this phase provides hydration and acts as a , enabling the even distribution of other components while mimicking the skin's natural moisture content. Oils and emollients form the oil phase, usually comprising 5-20% of the lotion, and function by softening the skin and creating an occlusive barrier to prevent . Common examples include , a petroleum-derived that forms a protective on the skin surface, and , a derived from Simmondsia chinensis seeds that closely resembles human sebum for enhanced compatibility and occlusion. Emulsifiers and stabilizers, often at 1-5% concentration, are essential for creating stable oil-in-water emulsions by reducing between immiscible phases. , a mixture extracted from soybeans or eggs, acts as a natural emulsifier that also imparts emollient properties and stabilizes the mixture through its amphiphilic nature. , a saturated (C18H36O2), serves as both an emulsifier and thickener, forming a rigid structure in emulsions to prevent while contributing to the lotion's creamy texture. Active ingredients are categorized by function, with humectants drawing moisture into the skin to enhance hydration. Glycerin, a (C3H8O3), is a widely used that binds from the environment or deeper layers, promoting moisture retention without greasiness. , a naturally occurring compound (CH4N2O), functions similarly as a at concentrations of 5-10%, also aiding in gentle exfoliation by breaking down corneocyte bonds. Preservatives maintain product integrity by inhibiting microbial growth in the water-rich environment; , such as and , are synthetic esters of p-hydroxybenzoic acid that provide broad-spectrum protection against and fungi. , an ether alcohol (C8H10O2), serves as a paraben alternative, offering effective antimicrobial activity, particularly against , at levels up to 1%. Common additives enhance sensory and aesthetic qualities, including fragrances for scent, colorants for visual appeal, and thickeners for control. Fragrances, often synthetic aroma compounds or essential oils, are added at low percentages (0.1-1%) to mask base odors, while colorants like iron oxides or synthetic dyes provide tinting without altering functionality. Thickeners such as , a produced by , increase and stabilize suspensions at 0.1-1%, offering a smooth, non-sticky feel; distinctions between natural (e.g., plant-derived xanthan) and synthetic (e.g., petroleum-based polymers) additives influence formulation preferences for clean-label products. Recent trends as of 2025 emphasize biotech-derived ingredients, such as lab-grown ceramides and sustainable plant-based emulsifiers, to support clean beauty and reduce environmental impact. Lotions are formulated to a of 5-7 to align with the 's acidity (4.5-5.5), ensuring compatibility, minimizing , and optimizing stability without disrupting the barrier.

Formulation Methods

Lotions are primarily formulated as oil-in-water (O/W) , where oil droplets are dispersed in a continuous aqueous phase, providing a , non-greasy texture suitable for application. In contrast, water-in-oil (W/O) , often used for thicker creams, feature water droplets dispersed in oil, offering better occlusion but a heavier feel. The choice of type depends on stability factors, including the (HLB) values of emulsifiers; low HLB values (typically 4-6) favor W/O systems by promoting oil-phase affinity, while higher HLB values (8-18) support O/W through greater . The basic process for lotions involves preparing separate and phases, heating them to controlled temperatures—often around 70°C—to ensure compatibility and melting of components, then gradually combining them under continuous stirring to initiate emulsification. Homogenization follows, using mechanical shear to reduce droplet sizes and enhance uniformity, preventing immediate separation and promoting a colloidal structure. This hot-process method, common in laboratory settings, allows for the incorporation of active ingredients like humectants or emollients during the cooling phase to maintain integrity. Advanced techniques elevate emulsion quality by achieving finer droplet distributions, typically in the 1-10 micron range for lotions, which improves spreadability and long-term stability. High-shear mixing applies intense to break down oil globules into smaller particles during phase addition, resulting in more uniform s compared to basic stirring. Microfluidization, an innovative pressure-driven method, forces the mixture through narrow channels at high velocities, producing submicron droplets (often below 1 micron) with narrow size distributions, ideal for enhanced in skincare lotions. Customization of lotion formulations focuses on tailoring sensory and functional properties without compromising stability. is adjusted using polymers such as carbomers or acrylates, which form networks to thicken the aqueous phase and suspend particles, yielding desired flow characteristics from pourable lotions to semi-solids. pH balancing, typically targeting 4.5-6.5 to mimic skin's acidity, is achieved with buffers like , preventing separation by optimizing emulsifier performance and ingredient compatibility. Key challenges in lotion formulation include phase inversion, where excessive shear or incompatible ratios cause the emulsion to switch from O/W to W/O, leading to instability and separation over time. Microbial contamination poses another risk, as the high water content in O/W lotions creates an environment conducive to ; this is mitigated through systems and sterile handling, though formulation must balance efficacy with skin safety.

Production

Manufacturing Processes

The industrial manufacturing of lotions involves a series of sequential stages designed to ensure efficient production while maintaining product stability and consistency. Raw material sourcing begins with procuring high-quality ingredients such as deionized water, emollients, emulsifiers, and preservatives from certified suppliers, followed by storage in controlled environments to prevent contamination. These materials are then weighed and prepped in dedicated areas, with water phases often heated separately to facilitate dissolution of solubles. Batch mixing occurs in large stainless steel vessels equipped with agitators, where the oil and aqueous phases are combined under controlled temperatures, typically ranging from 45–85°C, to achieve homogeneity. High-shear mixers are employed to disperse powders and flakes, such as or , into the continuous phase before adding the dispersed phase. Emulsification follows, utilizing inline homogenizers to create stable oil-in-water emulsions by applying intense shear forces that reduce droplet sizes to micrometer levels, preventing . This step is critical for lotion texture and is often performed in continuous flow systems for larger volumes. Key equipment includes mixing tanks with capacities up to several thousand liters, positive displacement pumps for transferring phases, and automated filling lines to minimize and ensure precise dosing. systems, such as programmable logic controllers, regulate , speed, and timing for reproducibility across batches. Scale-up from pilot batches (typically 50–500 liters) to full production (1,000–5,000 liters per batch) requires adjustments for and shear rates to replicate lab-scale principles at industrial volumes, often transitioning to continuous flow processes for higher throughput. Following emulsification and cooling, the lotion undergoes final adjustments like pH correction and fragrance addition before packaging. Products are filled into airless dispensers or laminated to protect against oxidation and microbial ingress, with preservation achieved through preservatives and of the aqueous phase to minimize initial microbial load, rather than on the final product to preserve efficacy. Lotion has notable environmental impacts, primarily from high usage—up to 90% of the by weight—during mixing, cleaning, and cooling, alongside that contributes to via . Sustainable practices include adopting waterless or concentrated formulations to cut consumption, process in closed-loop systems (e.g., recovering up to 60 million liters annually in optimized facilities), and using biodegradable materials to minimize solid .

Quality Control and Standards

Quality control in lotion production encompasses a series of standardized testing protocols and adherence to industry guidelines to verify product , , and consistency throughout manufacturing. These measures ensure that lotions, whether classified as or over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, meet required specifications for microbial , physical properties, and long-term stability. Testing protocols for lotions include microbiological assays to detect potential , such as the USP <61> Tests, which quantify total aerobic microbial count (TAMC) and total combined yeasts and molds count (TYMC) in non-sterile products like lotions. Stability studies are also essential, involving accelerated aging conditions at 40°C and 75% relative for a minimum of six months to simulate long-term storage effects on chemical, physical, and microbiological attributes. Physical checks assess key attributes to maintain lotion performance, including measurement using a Brookfield to ensure consistent texture and spreadability. testing verifies the product's compatibility with , typically targeting a range of 4.5 to 7.0 for most formulations. integrity is evaluated via to confirm droplet size distribution and prevent , which could compromise . Industry standards guide these processes, with the FDA providing guidelines for OTC lotions under 21 CFR Part 211, which mandates current good manufacturing practices (cGMP) for , including testing and finished product release criteria. For , ISO 22716 outlines good manufacturing practices (GMP), emphasizing personnel , equipment maintenance, and in-process controls to uphold product quality from production to shipment. The FDA's cosmetic GMP guidance aligns with ISO 22716, recommending documentation and record-keeping to support quality verification. Batch is facilitated through labeling requirements, where lot codes must be affixed to enable identification of production details for quality tracking, as recommended in ISO 22716 and FDA cosmetics labeling rules under 21 CFR 701.3. Recall procedures, empowered by the Modernization of Act (MoCRA) of 2022, allow the FDA to mandate recalls for adulterated or misbranded lotions, requiring manufacturers to maintain records for rapid product retrieval and consumer notification. Post-2020 regulatory updates have heightened emphasis on clean labeling and disclosure; in the , MoCRA requires facility registration and reporting, with forthcoming FDA lists (projected for as of November 2025) mandating declaration of fragrance s on labels to enhance transparency. In the EU, Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009, updated via Regulation (EU) 2023/1545, expands Annex III to include over 80 fragrance s that must be listed if exceeding 0.001% in leave-on products like lotions, with transitional periods allowing existing products on the market until 31 July , promoting .

Health and Safety Considerations

Potential Risks and Side Effects

While lotions are generally safe for topical use, they can cause various reactions, including and dryness, particularly with prolonged or excessive application. Long-term use of moisturizers on skin has been shown to potentially increase susceptibility to irritants, leading to heightened sensitivity and . Occlusive lotions, which form a barrier on the , may contribute to by trapping moisture and heat, exacerbating inflammatory responses in susceptible individuals. Overuse can paradoxically lead to dryness upon discontinuation, as the 's function may be temporarily altered. Systemic absorption of lotion ingredients occurs at low rates but remains possible, especially for lipophilic compounds. Percutaneous absorption rates of lotion ingredients vary by compound and formulation, generally low for cosmetics (often <10%), but higher for certain lipophilic substances, allowing minimal systemic entry. For example, potent topical steroids can penetrate the skin and suppress the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, potentially causing adrenal insufficiency with chronic use. This risk is heightened when applied over large areas or under occlusion, though it is rare with standard cosmetic lotions. Overuse of lotions can lead to by clogging hair follicles and promoting bacterial growth in occluded pores. Additionally, dependency on moisturizers, sometimes termed "lotion ," may develop, where discontinuation results in rebound dryness and due to impaired barrier recovery. This phenomenon has been observed in studies examining changes after long-term moisturizer cessation. Vulnerable populations, such as infants and the elderly, face elevated risks due to thinner, more permeable . In infants, higher absorption rates increase the potential for systemic effects from ingredients like endocrine disruptors in lotions. The elderly may experience amplified and delayed healing from overuse, compounded by age-related fragility. Lotions can also interact with medications, such as those affecting permeability, potentially altering or exacerbating side effects.

Allergens and Sensitivities

Lotions, like other cosmetic products, can contain several common allergens that trigger contact dermatitis in susceptible individuals. Fragrances are among the most frequent culprits, with components such as limonene—derived from citrus oils—often oxidizing into more reactive hydroperoxides upon exposure to air, leading to skin sensitization. Preservatives like methylisothiazolinone (MI), widely used to prevent microbial growth in water-based formulations, have been identified as potent sensitizers, particularly in leave-on products such as body lotions. Lanolin, an emollient sourced from sheep's wool, is another notable allergen, present in approximately 10% of moisturizers and capable of eliciting reactions even in those without prior wool exposure. These allergic responses primarily involve , a delayed T-cell-mediated immune reaction that develops 48 to 72 hours after initial exposure, resulting in symptoms like redness, itching, and eczema-like rashes upon re-exposure. typically relies on patch testing, where small amounts of potential allergens are applied to the skin under occlusion for 48 hours, followed by readings at 72 to 96 hours to identify positive reactions. Allergic contact dermatitis from cosmetic ingredients, including those in lotions, affects up to 10% of the general population, with fragrances and preservatives accounting for a significant portion of cases in patch-tested individuals. formulations address this by excluding common triggers, such as fragrances, dyes, and certain preservatives, often incorporating barrier-repairing agents like ceramides to maintain hydration without . To minimize risks, individuals with sensitivities should carefully read ingredient labels to avoid declared allergens and opt for fragrance-free or ceramide-based alternatives that support skin barrier function. Research highlights rising rates linked to synthetic compounds like MI, prompting regulatory actions such as the European Union's 2017 ban on MI in leave-on and ongoing expansions of labeling requirements for fragrance allergens since the early 2010s.

Regulatory Framework

In the United States, the (FDA) classifies lotions primarily as under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act if they are intended to cleanse, beautify, or alter appearance without affecting the body's structure or functions. However, medicated lotions making therapeutic claims, such as treating conditions, are regulated as drugs or combination products, requiring premarket approval or compliance with over-the-counter (OTC) monographs. For lotions, the FDA's OTC Monograph M020 establishes conditions for safety, efficacy, labeling, and active ingredients like zinc oxide or , ensuring broad-spectrum protection without individual new drug applications for and effective formulations. In the , Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 provides a harmonized framework for cosmetic products, including lotions, mandating that a conduct assessments, compile a Product Information File, and notify ingredients via the Cosmetic Products Notification Portal before market placement. This prohibits substances classified as carcinogenic, mutagenic, or toxic to reproduction unless strictly controlled, and requires good manufacturing practices to ensure product throughout the . Internationally, the (WHO) defines herbal lotions as finished products containing active ingredients from plant materials, recommending standardization for quality, safety, and efficacy in formulations to prevent contamination and ensure consistent potency. Complementary to this, ISO 22716 outlines good manufacturing practices for , covering production, quality control, storage, and shipment to maintain product integrity globally. Labeling requirements emphasize the (INCI) for listing components in descending order of concentration, with rules mandating declaration of 26 specific fragrance allergens if exceeding thresholds (0.001% in leave-on products like lotions). Claims such as "dermatologist-tested" must be substantiated through supervised clinical evaluations to verify safety and lack of irritation, avoiding misleading marketing under both FDA and oversight. Recent developments in the 2020s have intensified focus on environmental contaminants in lotion formulations. The 's Regulation (EU) 2023/2055 bans intentionally added in , with immediate prohibition for rinse-off products like exfoliating lotions and phased implementation for leave-on types by 2027-2035 to curb . In the , California's Toxic-Free Cosmetics Act (AB 2762) restricts per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in starting January 2025, targeting intentionally added "forever chemicals" in moisturizers and sunscreens due to risks, with similar state-level bans emerging in and elsewhere. proposals under REACH further aim to limit PFAS across categories, including , pending evaluation by the .

References

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  12. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10087853/
  13. https://formulabotanica.com/history-of-cosmetics/
  14. https://bestskincenter.com/the-evolution-of-beauty-treatments-part-vi-moisturizing/
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