There is no doubt that the Coronavirus pandemic has changed most people’s approach to hygiene. The simple act of handwashing has gone from a basic hygiene practice to something which could literally save your life.
In a recent presentation ingredient supplier Chemyunion highlighted the difference between cleaning vs disinfecting.
Cleaning refers to the removal of germs, dirt and impurities. It does not necessarily kill germs but by removing them, it lowers their numbers and therefore the risk of spreading infection. To clean one simply uses water and soap or other detergents.
Disinfecting refers to using chemicals to kill germs on surfaces. This process does not necessarily clean dirty surfaces or remove germs, but by killing germs on a surface after cleaning, it can further lower the risks of infection spreading. Disinfecting requires the use of antimicrobial agents such as alcohol (at least 70%), soaps and detergents.
The effectiveness of an antimicrobial agent is assessed in four ways:
- Plate Counting: This looks at whether the product is contaminated in other words the number of cells present based on their ability to multiply under certain conditions.
- Challenge Test: Is the preservative system able to protect the product?
- MIC (Minimum Inhibitory Concentration): This assesses how lethal the antimicrobial is against a particular microorganism.
- Time Kill: How quickly and efficiently does the antimicrobial act against the microorganism?
A further factor to consider is the impact of antimicrobial products on the health of the skin. Dehydration from the constant use of sanitizers is a major concern for many. Companies are therefore looking for solutions that both kill germs, clean and protect the skin.
Chemyunion has identified its Hebeatol® Plus DEO and Chemysoap S 3R as solutions that can be combined to satisfy these requirements.
Hebeatol® Plus DEO is a functional ester of xylitol with antimicrobial property. It reduces the adherence of microorganisms to the skin and offers restoration properties. Hebeatol is vegetal in origin, 100% biodegradable and Ecocert approved.
Chemysoap S 3R is saponified murumuru butter. It provides mild cleansing, helps maintain skin moisture, while producing a pleasing creamy foam. It provides skin moisturisation and the maintainance of the cutaneous barrier of the skin, differentiating it from ordinary surfactants. Ideal for use in soap bars or similar applications.
For information on these and other Chemyunion’s ingredients contact Chemgrit Cosmetics.