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Published on: August 8, 2019
Circadian rhythms in axillary skin surface pH.
J Burry1, H F Coulson, G Roberts
1Unilever Research, Port Sunlight Laboratory, Quarry Rd East, Bebington, Wirral, U.K.
International Journal of Cosmetic Science
|May 24, 2008
Summary
Morning application of antiperspirants is most effective due to significant daily pH variations in axillary skin. This finding supports optimizing antiperspirant use and exploring chronopharmacology for hyperhidrosis treatment.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology and Cosmetology
- Biophysics
Background:
- Antiperspirant efficacy is linked to skin surface pH and sweat composition.
- The 'plug theory' explains antiperspirant action via dissolution of active salts in sweat, forming plugs in eccrine ducts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate diurnal variations in axillary skin surface pH.
- To determine the optimal timing for antiperspirant application for maximal efficacy.
- To explore potential circadian rhythms in skin barrier function for hyperhidrosis treatment.
Main Methods:
- Clinical study measuring axillary skin surface pH at different times of day.
- Analysis of diurnal pH fluctuations and their correlation with antiperspirant mechanism.
- Assessment of potential chronopharmacological implications for hyperhidrosis.
Main Results:
- A significant decrease in axillary skin surface pH was observed from morning (pH 5.87) to evening (pH 5.49).
- This diurnal pH variation suggests that morning application of antiperspirants yields optimal efficacy.
- Evidence points towards a circadian rhythm in axillary skin barrier function.
Conclusions:
- Antiperspirant application timing, particularly in the morning, is crucial for maximizing efficacy.
- Understanding diurnal skin pH changes can optimize antiperspirant use.
- Chronopharmacology may offer new strategies for treating hyperhidrosis with topical anticholinergic drugs.
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