An individual with cosmetic allergy typically suffers from contact dermatitis. This skin condition is described as itchy, blistering skin rash that manifest after exposure to the substance. There are two forms of contact dermatitis – allergic and irritant.
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In most cases, women are typically affected than males while adolescents and middle-aged individuals are the commonly affected age groups.
Close look on cosmetic-induced contact dermatitis
When it comes to cosmetic-induced contact dermatitis, it is considered common since many apply various chemicals to the skin, scalp and hair on a daily basis. In most cases, the rash can occur on the skin where the cosmetic was applied to, but can also occur on a different part of the body. Remember that it is also possible for an allergy to a particular substance to develop even after years of using the cosmetic without experiencing any previous reactions.
Fragrances
The development of contact dermatitis due to fragrances is one of the common triggers. The rashes can manifest on the neck in a pattern that is consistent on how the perfume was sprayed on the area, such as the neck and face.
Avoiding fragrances can be a difficult task and using products that are labelled as “unscented” can be misleading, since a masking fragrance might be added. It is recommended to opt for products free from fragrances which can be tolerated by individuals with contact dermatitis triggered by fragrances.
The fragrances can also be present in shampoos, perfumes, conditioners, moisturizers, cosmetics, fabric softeners and laundry detergents. Due to the large amount of substances that might contain fragrances as well as lack of labelling of these products, the individual should avoid these products as a way to eliminate the potential trigger.
Hair products
Hair products are also another common cause of contact dermatitis. The commonly used chemicals include phenylenediamine present in hair dyes, cocamidopropyl betaine in bath products and shampoos as well as glyceryl thioglycolate present in permanent wave solutions. Take note that it is common for reactions to hair products to trigger contact dermatitis on the eyelids, face, neck and back before affecting the scalp.
Preservatives
Allergic reactions to various preservatives can occur since some are present in several cosmetics and personal care products. Most of these preservatives typically include formaldehyde including quaternium-15. Other preservatives that do not contain formaldehyde include thimerosal, parabens as well as isothiazolinone.
Nail coatings
The reactions to acrylic coatings on nails have been a common cause of contact dermatitis on the fingers including the eyelids and face. Many individuals who use coatings or artificial nails might touch the eyelids and face using the nails. The commonly used chemicals include acrylates and formaldehyde-based resins.
It is important to note that these chemicals are frequently utilized in professional nail salons, but also present in nail polish especially those that claim to strengthen the nail. Always check the ingredients on the bottle before buying any nail polish if contact dermatitis has occurred in the past due to acrylates or formaldehyde-resins.