Biofilms in the Personal and Home Care Sectors

The personal care sector directly affects our quality of life. Biofilms are directly connected to personal care and hygiene. These microbial communities are associated with multiple skin conditions such as acne and eczema, as well as unpleasant bodily odours. Whilst individuals normally purchase personal care goods for hygiene and appearance reasons, it’s easy to forget that these products also control biofilms.

Oral plaque is a type of biofilm that forms on our teeth and gum line. It helps to increase bacteria’s resistance to host defences and actions of oral care products. If oral plaque is not removed properly it can build up and cause tooth decay and gum disease. Routine brushing is essential for removing plaque and maintaining good oral hygiene.

A significant focus within the home care sector is preventing and controlling biofilms in order to uphold and maintain high hygiene standards and health. Higher incomes, urbanisation and changing consumer preferences towards more eco-friendly products are driving the revenue of household cleaning products.