Absorption and Evaporation of Volatile Compounds Applied to Skin

INTRODUCTION The disposition of volatile products following application to the skin plays a role in both their safety and efficacy. The absorption rate determines systemic levels and skin concentrations, both of which must be factored into risk assessments. The evaporation rate determines efficacy for certain products, for example, a fine fragrance or an insect repellant. These two factors are interdependent as both depend on and, in turn, affect the residual concentration of the compound in or on the skin.