Hohenstein hits on new skin-friendly testing process
25/06/2009
New textile testing methods developed by scientists at the Hohenstein Institute for Hygiene and Biotechnology mean the organisation says it is now able to certify textile products as hypoallergenic.
The new testing process analyses a fabric’s interaction with living skin cells to determine whether it is likely to induce an allergic reaction or skin irritation in the wearer. Textiles that pass the test may be certified by Hohenstein as hypoallergenic, skin-friendly fabrics that will not irritate sensitive users.
“Skin sensitivity to allergens is a rapidly growing concern for many consumer audiences,” said Dr Dirk Höfer, the department’s director, on announcing the development. “A manufacturer’s ability to state that textile products have been tested and are certified as hypoallergenic is a significant advantage. Hohenstein’s certification will be of particular interest to companies that make textile products for infants and children as well as for the activewear and intimate apparel markets.”
In the US alone, 50 million people suffer from allergen sensitivities, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. A 2008 report indicated that of the 3 million children there who suffer from food allergies (up 18% in the decade), a third also have skin sensitivities. Scientists have identified more than 3,700 substances as skin allergens.
“Consumers are exposed to more potential skin allergens today than ever before,” said Sam Moore who heads Hohenstein America. “The textile products market has many new types of fibers and fabrics that are made all over the world with new textile processing chemicals and dyes. This growth in innovation has also contributed to the increasing presence of potential skin irritants. For the sensitive consumer, that can be distressing.”
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