ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: LOTIONS AND THE SKIN Skin, the largest organ of the body, plays a critical role as the interface between the human body and the environment. Originally it was thought mainly to have a passive role, being a physical barrier to environmental threats such as low humidity, biological pathogens, UV radiation, physical trauma, and environmental pollutants. It has always been recognized as playing a vital role as a sensory organ alerting us to the presence and nature of objects surrounding us, extremes of temperature, and noxious chemicals. More recently its active interactions with the environment have become better appreciated. It is physiologically active: the immunological response involves keratinocytes and Langerhans cells as well as the T and B-lymphocytes. Melanin in the skin protects it from UV damage. Upon exposure to light, melanin can be redistributed to the keratinocytes protecting the cells of the lower epidermis. The skin has signi‘cant levels of enzymes such as cytochrome P450 that can metabolize xenobiotics. Unsurprisingly, it is most effective as a barrier if it is intact. Hand and body lotions play a vital role in helping to maintain the integrity and plasticity of the SC in the face of many outside threats. They have the ability to prevent or reduce dryness and the impact of many irritants (1,2) as well as improving the skin feel and consumers’ quality of life (QoL).