Mosquito bites are the most prevalent cause of acute itch in humans, triggering immediate reactions like wheals and erythema, followed by delayed pruritic papules. While ammonium hydroxide is a widely used over-the-counter remedy for these symptoms, its application is restricted by safety concerns; it can cause skin, eye, and respiratory irritation, making it unsuitable for subjects with sensitive skin or children under two years of age. Furthermore, ammonia is a component of human sweat that may actually attract certain mosquito species. In response to these issues, there is a burgeoning consumer demand for “green cosmetics”—products formulated with natural ingredients that are perceived as safer, more sustainable, and healthier alternatives to synthetic treatments.
Methods
The researchers developed a natural oil-in-water (O/W) emulsion (Formula A) incorporating botanical actives such as Zanthoxylum bungeanum and Avena sativa. This formulation underwent three months of physicochemical and microbiological stability testing under accelerated conditions and a dermatological patch test involving 27 volunteers with sensitive skin. Finally, its soothing efficacy was evaluated in vitro using a HaCaT keratinocyte cell line, where IL−1α levels were measured following irritation and compared against a commercial ammonia-based reference.
Key Findings
• High Stability: The formulation demonstrated excellent physical and microbiological stability, maintaining its appearance, pH, and viscosity for 90 days across various temperature conditions.
• Superior Tolerability: Dermatological assessments confirmed the product as “non-irritating,” with zero instances of erythema or edema reported among sensitive-skin volunteers.
• Proven Soothing Efficacy: In vitro tests revealed that the natural formula significantly reduced IL−1α levels, which are primary markers of skin inflammation and irritation.
• Comparable Performance: The botanical formulation displayed a soothing effect comparable to the standard ammonia-based product, proving that natural ingredients can achieve high performance.
• Innovative Preservation: The use of multifunctional ingredients (like 1,2-hexanediol and caprylyl glycol) provided effective antimicrobial protection without the need for traditional chemical preservatives.
This research highlights a novel approach in cosmetic dermatology by providing a high-performance, 99.2% natural solution that effectively competes with established chemical treatments like ammonia. The study’s novelty lies in its successful integration of traditional botanical knowledge with rigorous scientific validation, proving that “green” alternatives can offer both safety and efficacy for sensitive populations, including children and the elderly. Future implications include the potential transition of these findings into real-world clinical settings and the use of advanced 3D skin models to further investigate the complex biological pathways of mosquito-induced itch.
Link to the study: https://www.mdpi.com/2079-9284/13/1/29
In the image: Physical appearance of the emulsion developed (Formula A).