Evaluating lotion transfer to skin from feminine protection products.
OBJECTIVE
Adding lotions or emollients to the surface of a variety of paper products improves overall consumer comfort. Techniques to measure lotion transfer to skin are needed.


METHODS
Two approaches were compared to assess lotion transfer from impregnated feminine pads: (1) pad application to the popliteal fosssa, an adaptation of the previously described 'behind-the-knee (BTK)' test model, and (2) a clinical in-use study in which pads were worn in the usual manner. In both approaches, dressings attached to the skin were used to absorb lotion transferred from the pad. Lotion transfer was first evaluated after 3 h in both protocols, and then after either 6 h (BTK method) or after and 24 h (clinical use test).


RESULTS
In the BTK model, lotion transfer was a function of both the total amount of lotion contained on the topsheet and the type of absorbent material in the core of the pad. Pads containing absorbent gelling material transferred lotion more effectively than pads containing cellulose absorbent cores. In the in-use clinical study, the results were directionally similar, but statistical significance was not reached.


CONCLUSIONS
An adaptation of the BTK test method provides an effective means of evaluating the transfer of lotion formulations from feminine protection pads.
Farage
Miranda
M
Feminine Clinical Sciences, The Procter and Gamble Company, Cincinnati, OH 45224, USA. farage.m@pg.com
D000287:Administration, Topical; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000704:Analysis of Variance; D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena / Q000379:methods; D002482:Cellulose; D018592:Cross-Over Studies; D004643:Emollients / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000032:analysis*; D005260:Female; D053566:Hygiene Products; D005782:Gels; D006801:Humans; D007717:Knee; D008875:Middle Aged; D012867:Skin; D014844:Vulva / Q000737:chemistry*
D002482:Cellulose; D004643:Emollients; D053566:Hygiene Products; D005782:Gels