New Surface Covering for Feminine Hygiene Pads: Dermatological Testing

ABSTRACT

The skin compatibility of a new surface covering for feminine hygiene pads was assessed by 1) skin irritation patch tests, 2) the Human Repeat Insult Patch Test, and 3) a test protocol for assessing mechanical irritation that uses repeated application to the popliteal fossa (“behind-the-knee” test). The pad covering is a fabric-like apertured film with a soft and supple tactile impression. Testing was designed to assess the effects of topical contact as well as friction. All studies showed the new material to be as mild as other commercially available materials used on the surface of feminine hygiene pads. Induction of delayed contact hypersensitivity was not found. The test methods used can be applied to the safety assessment of other products that involve topical skin contact and frictional effects.

Keywords :

• Feminine hygiene pads
• Sanitary pads
• Fabric-like film
• Apertured film
• Topsheet
• Cumulative irritation
• Mechanical irritation
• Behind-the-knee test