Physicochemical, microbiological and regulatory assessment of children’s soaps marketed in Yaounde, Cameroon

Background: Children’s skin is structurally and functionally immature, making it more susceptible to chemical irritation and barrier disruption. Cosmetic products intended for pediatric use must therefore comply with strict physicochemical, microbiological, and regulatory standards. Data on the quality of pediatric cosmetic products in Central Africa remain scarce.

Objective: This study aimed to (i) assess regulatory labeling compliance, (ii) evaluate physicochemical characteristics, and (iii) determine the microbiological quality of children’s

Methods: A descriptive analytical study was conducted between January and March 2024. Ten widely available brands of children’s soaps were randomly purchased from major supermarkets and pharmacies in Yaoundé. Labeling compliance was assessed according to Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 and Cameroonian standard NC 804:2017. Physicochemical analyses included pH, total fatty matter, free caustic alkali, alcohol-insoluble matter, and foam height using standardized methods. Microbiological quality was evaluated according to ISO 21149:2017 guidelines. Data were analyzed using SPSS 25.0. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

Results: Three products (30%) presented at least one labeling deficiency. The mean pH was 10.3 ± 0.7 (range 9.2–11.4). Four products (40%) exceeded the acceptable limit for free caustic alkali (>0.1%). All samples complied with microbiological standards, with total aerobic counts <10³ CFU/g and no detection of specified pathogens.

Conclusion: While microbiological safety appears satisfactory, significant physicochemical and regulatory non-compliance persists. Strengthened post-market surveillance and enforcement of cosmetic regulations are warranted to ensure pediatric consumer protection.