Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 13, 2026
06:31
Precision Implementation of Minimal Erythema Dose (MED) Testing to Assess Individual Variation in Human Inflammatory Response
Published on: October 3, 2019
Evaluation of lotion formulations on irritation using the modified forearm-controlled application test method
M A Farage1, A Ebrahimpour, B Steimle
1The Procter & Gamble Company, Winton Hill Business Center, Cincinnati, OH 45224, USA. farage.m@pg.com
Summary
Lotion-coated tissues effectively reduce skin irritation from allergies and colds. A modified forearm test (Modified FCAT) evaluated formulations, finding proprietary bases superior for healing erythema and dryness.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Cosmetic Science
Background:
- Nasal irritation is common for cold/allergy sufferers due to tissue friction and chemical properties.
- Lotion-coated tissues aim to soothe skin and promote healing of this irritation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of different lotion formulations on facial tissues.
- To assess their ability to prevent or heal skin irritation.
Main Methods:
- Adapted the modified forearm-controlled application test (Modified FCAT) for rapid evaluation.
- Induced mild/moderate skin irritation using sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) on forearm sites.
- Assessed irritation (erythema, dryness) after repeated wiping with lotion-coated tissues.
Main Results:
- Formulations varied in their effects on erythema and dryness.
- Stearyl and cetearyl alcohol showed no significant difference.
- A proprietary base formula demonstrated superior reduction in erythema compared to mineral oil and petrolatum.
Conclusions:
- The Modified FCAT effectively compares lotion formulations for skin benefits.
- It allows qualitative ranking of formulation efficacy in healing irritated skin.
