Background
A study was conducted at three oil production and refinery facilities to better understand the effects of a skin care regimen. A comprehensive analysis of the skin care program was conducted that evaluated costs, skin condition, washing practices, and waste management.

Methods
To evaluate skin condition, a technical approach, which included skin bioengineering techniques and expert dermal evaluation, was employed to characterize skin condition and the effectiveness of the skin care program. Skin bioengineering measurements were analyzed in conjunction with self-assessment questionnaires completed by the panelists. Costs and waste management were analyzed by the company’s current expenditures. Washing practices were evaluated by on-site inspections and observations of how workers cleaned their hands.

Results
With the implementation of the hand regimen system, significant cost reduction was evaluated. The washing practices of the workers demonstrated a reduction in cleaning time and the use of an appropriate cleaner instead of harmful chemicals and solvents to clean their hands. Comparison of the change in the skin condition of workers using the skin care program (product group) with those not using it (control group) demonstrated significant (p<0.05) improvements in skin condition. The quantitative improvement in skin condition was demonstrated in the skin hydration, skin moisture capacity, and expert dermal evaluation data. The qualitative improvement in skin condition was evident in the perception of skin condition improvement observed in the analysis of the self-assessment questionnaires.

Conclusion
These studies indicate clearly the benefits in cost reduction, lost work hours, waste management, and overall skin condition of the workers by implementing a skin care program.