Calcium Hypochlorite-Containing Organic Cream Triggers Dyslipidaemia and Oxidative Stress Responses Following Topical Exposure in Rabbits

The systemic consequences of dermal exposure to cosmetic formulations containing reactive chemical agents are becoming increasingly important, particularly as calcium hypochlorite is now incorporated (often inappropriately) into some organic creams and skin-lightening products. Although valued for its antimicrobial and bleaching properties, the biological impact of calcium hypochlorite on glucose levels, lipid metabolism, antioxidant status and oxidative balance following topical application remains poorly understood. This study investigated the effects of an organic cream formulated with calcium hypochlorite on lipid profile and oxidative stress biomarkers in rabbits. Healthy rabbits were randomly assigned into four groups comprising a control which had topical application of base cream (coconut oil), while the three other groups had topical applications of calcium hypochlorite incorporated coconut oil-organic cream at 0.1, 0.3 and 1.0 mL, over a 28-day period. Blood glucose, liver function parameters [Aspartate Transaminase (AST), Alanine Transaminase (ALT), Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP), and Albumin (ALB)], along with antioxidant enzymes [catalase (CAT), Superoxide dismutase (SOD), reduced glutathione (GSH)] and lipid peroxidation measured as malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were evaluated using standard biochemical assays. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey’s post-hoc test, with significance set at p < 0.05. Calcium hypochlorite at all concentrations significantly increased blood glucose, ALT, AST, ALP, ALB and MDA levels, and reduced SOD, CAT and GSH level. In conclusion, these findings revealed that topical exposure to calcium hypochlorite-containing organic cream can disrupt lipid metabolism and compromise redox homeostasis in rabbits. The study underscores the potential systemic risks associated with unregulated hypochlorite-based cosmetic products and highlights the need for strengthened safety oversight in skincare formulations marketed for skin lightening.