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Updated: Jun 2, 2026

Microwave-Assisted Extraction of Phenolic Compounds and Antioxidants for Cosmetic Applications Using Polyol-Based Technology
Published on: August 23, 2024
Antiirritant properties of polyols and amino acids
Csilla Korponyai1, Réka K Kovács, Gábor Erös
1Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University of Szeged, Hungary.
Background:
Antiirritants are used in cosmetic products to prevent or to treat skin irritations that arise during daily life. Data were published earlier on the efficacy of the best-known humectant, glycerol, in reducing irritation.
Objective:
The aim of the present study was to examine the effects of different polyols (including glycerol, xylitol, and mannitol) and the amino acids taurine and glycine on sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS)-induced skin irritation.
Methods:
Healthy adult volunteers were patch-tested with 0.1% SLS in the presence or absence of one or another polyol or amino acid. Skin reactions were evaluated via measurements of transepidermal water loss (TEWL).
Results:
Glycerol and xylitol significantly suppressed the SLS-induced increase in TEWL, whereas mannitol had no effect on the SLS-induced skin irritation. Taurine also inhibited the SLS-induced increase in TEWL, but glycine was not effective in reducing the SLS-induced irritative response.
Conclusion:
Similar to the action of the well-known antiirritant glycerol, SLS-induced skin irritation is suppressed by xylitol and taurine. These results suggest that these agents might also be effective in preventing irritative dermatitis.
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