ANALYSIS OF LABELLING AND QUALITY PARAMETERS OF INTIMATE SOAPS

Abstract

Objective: Intimate soaps should protect the female genital area and thus allow for the maintenance of the natural microbiota therein. Here, we verified quality parameters of intimate soaps commercially available, including general physicochemical and microbiological characteristics based on specific requirements for this type of product. Material and Methods: A total of five brands of intimate soaps were analyzed. With regard to physicochemical aspects, tests measuring pH, viscosity and density, the centrifuge test and the lather index test were performed. The soups were also tested for their efficacy against Candida albicans clinical isolate with standardized density of approximately 0.5x108 CFU/mL using the dilution method. Results: We found that only one product (brand A) passed all tests from labeling to microbiological testing, and that all brands inhibited microbiological growth of Candida albicans. However, attention should be drawn to the pH variations found in this study (3.93 to 11.66). Although there is no consensus on the ideal pH range for intimate soap formulations, it should take into account the physiological pH which is slightly acidic (4.0 to 4.5). The viscosity, density and lather index data exhibited a wide variation impacting the pattern of commercial acceptance. As for labeling, only the brand C was rejected as it did not meet the regulatory criteria and presented the highest deviation of pH (11.66) as compared to the physiological pH. Conclusion: It is evident the importance of quality control as well as observation of labels in intimate products which should be considered as an ally in maintaining women's health. DESCRIPTORS Feminine Hygiene Products. Quality Control. Candida albicans.