To the average consumer, cleaning means more than just removing dirt. They want their clothes, surfaces, and skin to look bright and new again. But how can companies make their products deliver that bright, clean look? One solution is optical brighteners, called optical brightening agents, fluorescent brighteners, or textile brighteners. At Polyventive, we provide the technologies to enhance your products with optical brighteners. Keep reading to learn how these compounds work and how they can help you meet consumer needs.
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Optical brighteners are usually made from stilbene or biphenyl derivatives. However, other chemical compounds can produce brightening effects when used in these agents. The key property of optical brighteners is that they are soluble in water. When applied, they quickly work to emit blue light. This cancels out yellowish, dingy undertones on a surface or skin. The result is a brighter, more vibrant appearance. Optical brighteners are effective even in tiny amounts. Many laundry detergents contain less than 0.3% optical brighteners. Yet this small percentage still produces noticeable brightening.
While helpful, optical brighteners aren’t entirely innocuous. There are some environmental considerations with these compounds. Optical brighteners can harm aquatic life when they get washed down the drain and enter waterways. Studies show optical brightener accumulation affects the growth and reproduction of organisms like fish and crustaceans. These compounds also aren’t readily biodegradable. They persist in the environment over long periods, increasing their potential ecological impacts over time.
For these reasons, some eco-conscious brands avoid optical brighteners or use alternative whitening agents like sodium percarbonate. If you do use optical brighteners, be sure to disclose this on your product labels. Many consumers want to make informed choices about ingredients with environmental effects.
Optical brighteners also demand some safety precautions, especially in skincare products. Although generally recognized as safe, they can cause issues for people with sensitivities. Some users report reactions like rashes, stinging, or redness from optical brighteners. This seems most common in those with eczema or very dry, sensitive skin types.
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The FDA recommends patch-testing any products with optical brighteners before widespread use. This identifies potential sensitivities or reactions in individual users. Like with any additive, it’s wise to thoroughly test formulas with optical brighteners to ensure they won’t cause undesirable effects when applied to the skin, especially around delicate areas like the face or hands.
At Polyventive, we offer the technologies to help you reap the benefits of optical brighteners safely and effectively.
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We also provide a wide range of other additives to augment your products:
With decades of experience, we’re your ideal partner for creating next-level personal care and cleaning products.