Abstract
BACKGROUND: Effective facial cleansing is essential for removing dirt, oil, and impurities without compromising the skin barrier and hydration. However, many conventional cleansers contain harsh surfactants that may strip the skin of its natural lipids, leading to dryness, irritation, and barrier disruption. AIM: This study aimed to assess the safety and efficacy of a cleansing lotion containing cetyl alcohol and sodium cocoyl apple amino acids in eliminating skin surface impurities while preserving skin barrier function in healthy adult subjects with diverse skin types, including dry, oily, sensitive, combination, and normal. METHODS: This open-label, interventional study enrolled 27 participants, all of whom completed the 30-day study. The product's effectiveness was assessed through key clinical and instrumental evaluations, focusing on skin surface impurities by assessing porphyrin levels (size, value, and quantity) and skin tone, along with hydration, barrier function, and overall dry skin score. RESULTS: After 30 days of use, significant improvements were observed across all parameters. Skin surface impurities reduced, as evidenced by porphyrin size, quantity, and values reduced to 0.29 ± 0.23, 7.11 ± 4.96, and 130.30 ± 16.28, respectively. Overall skin tone improved to 22.78 ± 14.58, skin hydration improved to 46.07 ± 8.47, and barrier function improved to 9.27 ± 1.83, with all changes being statistically significant (p < 0.0001). No adverse event was reported during the conduct of the study. CONCLUSION: The soap-free cleansing lotion demonstrated clinical efficacy and excellent tolerability, effectively removing skin impurities while maintaining and enhancing skin hydration and maintaining the skin barrier function and overall skin appearance without causing irritation. These findings support its potential as a safe, evidence-based dermatological care, reinforcing its primary claims of effective cleansing and promoting visibly fresher and healthier skin.