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Published on: November 24, 2016
Erroneous gender differences in axillary skin surface/sweat pH
J S Burry1, H F Coulson, I Esser
1Unilever Research, Port Sunlight Laboratory, Quarry Rd East, Bebington, Wirral, U.K.
International Journal of Cosmetic Science
|May 24, 2008
Summary
Accurate axillary sweat pH measurement is crucial for antiperspirants. Controlled studies reveal no gender differences in axillary sweat or skin pH when pre-equilibrated with carbon dioxide, but significant differences exist between the axilla's vault and fossa.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Biochemistry
- Cosmetic Science
Background:
- Accurate assessment of axillary eccrine sweat pH is vital for the antiperspirant industry.
- Antiperspirant efficacy relies on sweat pH, influencing the formation of metal hydroxide gels that block sweat glands.
- Existing literature presents inconclusive findings on gender-based differences in skin surface and sweat pH across various body sites, including the axilla.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate potential gender differences in axillary eccrine sweat and skin surface pH under controlled environmental conditions.
- To emphasize the critical importance of controlling measurement time, site, and pre-equilibration with carbon dioxide (CO2) for accurate pH determination.
- To explore variations in pH between the hairy (vault) and non-hairy (fossa) regions of the axilla.
Main Methods:
- Conducted controlled studies varying temperature, humidity, and time to assess axillary sweat and skin surface pH.
- Implemented pre-equilibration of samples with 40 mmHg carbon dioxide (equivalent to arterial CO2 tension) before pH measurement.
- Compared pH measurements between the axillary vault and fossa.
Main Results:
- When measurement time, site, and CO2 pre-equilibration are precisely controlled, no significant gender differences in axillary sweat or skin surface pH were observed.
- Significant differences in eccrine sweat and skin surface pH were identified between the vault (hairy) and fossa (non-hairy) regions of the axilla.
- Previous conflicting results regarding gender differences are likely due to inadequate control of key measurement parameters.
Conclusions:
- Precise control over measurement conditions, particularly CO2 pre-equilibration, is essential for reliable axillary sweat and skin pH assessment.
- No inherent gender-based differences in axillary sweat or skin pH exist when standardized measurement protocols are followed.
- The anatomical differences between the axillary vault and fossa lead to significant variations in pH, a key factor for antiperspirant formulation.
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