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Body fluids: fascinating chemistry

Body fluids, sweat, tears

They are more than just excretions: they are fundamental components of our physiology, protective mechanisms and means of communication. Whether intentionally or unintentionally, they come into contact with the skin, where they elicit different reactions and sensations. On closer inspection, body fluids display an astonishing variety of properties that are of great importance to cosmetic science.

Sebum – the protective film on the skin

Sebum is one of the most important bodily fluids, constantly covering our skin. It protects the skin barrier, regulates water balance and serves as a substrate for the skin flora. Typical components are glycerides, free fatty acids, wax esters, squalene and cholesterol. Balanced skin care should maintain and promote this natural balance.

Earwax – an underestimated protective function

Earwax is another bodily fluid with special functions. It is rich in ceramides and cholesterol and has a strong antimicrobial effect. It protects the ear canal from infections and makes mechanical cleaning with cotton buds unnecessary.

Breast milk – nature’s skin care

Breast milk is almost isotonic to blood and contains a variety of bioactive components such as proteins, immunoglobulins and lipids. It is unique among bodily fluids in that it is both a source of nutrients for newborns and a protective factor against infections. From a cosmetic point of view, breast milk would be ideal for skin care products, but as it is reserved for children, mare’s milk is considered an alternative option.

Sweat serves to regulate body temperature and provides antibacterial protection.

Sweat is one of the most commonly perceived bodily fluids. Eccrine sweat regulates body temperature, while apocrine sweat shapes an individual’s scent. In addition to water and salts, sweat also contains antimicrobial peptides such as dermcidin, which protect the body against microorganisms.

Tear fluid – the protective system of the eyes

Tear fluid is one of the most versatile bodily fluids. It protects the eyes, moisturises them and transports antibodies. The tear film consists of water, lipids, salts and proteins. Disruption of this film leads to ‘dry eye’, which can be treated with cosmetic support.

Saliva is antibacterial and promotes wound healing

Saliva is also a fascinating bodily fluid. Although it consists mainly of water, it also contains enzymes, immunoglobulins and histatins. These have an antibacterial effect, promote wound healing and accelerate blood clotting.

Urine serves as a waste product and has an effect on the skin

Urine is one of the most important bodily fluids in the metabolism. It serves to excrete waste products such as urea, uric acid and creatinine. If concentrated urine comes into contact with damaged skin, it can cause skin irritation, as occurs in nappy rash. Gentle, oil-based cleansing helps here.

Other body fluids

In addition to the classic ones, there are a number of other bodily fluids that also affect the skin.

Vaginal secretions: acidic (pH 3.5–5.0), protects against infections

Semen: alkaline, pH 7–8, rich in proteins

Menstrual fluid: contains blood, vaginal secretions and components of the uterus

Blood: slightly alkaline, rich in proteins and nutrients

Nasal secretions: slightly acidic, contains lysozyme and antimicrobial peptides.

Conclusion of different body fluids

Body fluids are highly complex systems with protective, nurturing and communicative functions. They open up exciting avenues for cosmetic science, for example through research into natural lipids, peptides and moisturising factors.

Cosmacon analyses the biochemical mechanisms of body fluids and uses this knowledge to develop innovative, scientifically based skincare concepts.

Tojo Cosmetics offers immediately available private label products that translate cutting-edge research directly into marketable products.

Your brand – our passion for effectiveness, science and innovation. Feel free to contact us.

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