shower gel
Shower gel is the common name for liquid products containing surfactants that are used to cleanse the body while showering . Shower gels often have a high viscosity or a gel-like structure. From a technical point of view, shower gels belong to the product category of shower baths alongside shower emulsions, shower dispersions, shower scrubs and shower oils. The first shower gel is said to have hit the market in Germany in 1973.
The continuous market growth for shower products in the 1960s to 1990s was based on the introduction of permanently available hot water and modern shower facilities into the bathrooms . Shower baths meet the need for quick and now often daily full body cleansing. Today, shower gels have strongly pushed back or replaced traditional soaps and bath products in western societies . Time-consuming bathing takes place rarely today and is more for relaxation than cleaning. Liquid soaps are very similar to shower gels in their composition. They are increasingly replacing the classic hand wash soap.
properties
In addition to mild skin cleansing, modern shower gels are easy on the skin, have a balanced foaming power and a pleasant scent. The products are offered in an enormous variety. Colors and fragrances dominate the standard products. In the medically oriented segment, a skin-friendly pH value, mild surfactants and moisturizing are important arguments. Products with a cosmetic focus emphasize moisture retention, special active ingredients and selected perfumes.
composition
In addition to water , shower gels contain numerous substances with various functions: Surfactants are used to cleanse the skin and create foam . Thickeners or gel-forming substances give the product the desired consistency and increase the product stability. The skin feel is adjusted with conditioning agents. Moisturizers protect against dehydration of the skin and refatting agents compensate for washed out lipids. Dyes, pearlescent agents and opacifiers ensure an appealing look and perfume for a corresponding fragrance experience. Acids are used to adjust the pH value and preservatives, antioxidants and complexing agents ensure product protection (shelf life). The composition of the products is given in the list of ingredients ( INCI list) on the packaging.
Advantages and disadvantages
The uncomplicated handling, the good cleaning effect, the foaming power and the refreshing effect of the shower gels are appreciated by consumers. Compared to a bathtub, showering saves time and energy.
Shower gels are characterized by very good skin tolerance, which is why they are also suitable for daily use. With regard to their biodegradability, shower gels meet the criteria of the Washing and Cleaning Agents Act .
Individual evidence
- ^ W. Umbach: Cosmetics and hygiene. 3. Edition. Wiley-VCH Verlag, Weinheim 2004, ISBN 3-527-30996-9 , p. 122ff.
- ↑ The brand was "duschdas", reference in: Alverde. Customer magazine from dm, August 2014 issue, p. 20.
- ↑ P. Finkel: Showering is more than cleaning the skin. In: Cossma. 7/2004, pp. 14-15.
- ^ W. Umbach: Cosmetics and hygiene. 3. Edition. Wiley-VCH Verlag, Weinheim 2004, ISBN 3-527-30996-9 , pp. 123-128.
- ↑ haut.de
- ↑ Stiftung Warentest : Shower baths - the best for sensitive skin. In: test. 05/2006 (accessed online on February 4, 2013)
- ↑ bfr.bund.de