Personal cleanser technology and clinical performance.

Cleansing is essential for health and hygiene. Personal cleansing agents, such as soap, one of the earliest to be developed, were initially expected to deliver only cleansing benefits, but consumer expectations came with time to encompass health and cosmetic benefits. This demand led to the development of an array of milder cleansing agents with a broader spectrum of application. Cleansing products are sold around the world in different forms such as bars (the most widely used), liquids, gels, and creams. The present paper discusses the chemistry, formulation, product attributes, and benefits of various types of personal wash products.