Allergen Cocamidopropyl Betaine Cocamidopropyl betaine was the American Contact Dermatitis Society’s Allergen of the Year in 2004. It is a common ingredient in cleansers, soaps, shampoos, conditioners, hair coloring and
Not An Allergen … but be cautious Pumice (Volcanic Rock) Pure pumice is not a top contact allergen and does not appear as such in patch test trays, but it
Not An Allergen Sunlight If you are ever in a position where you might actually come into direct contact with the sun, there are got bigger problems to worry about.
Allergen Acrylates Named 2012’s Contact Allergen of the Year by the American Contact Dermatitis Society, acrylates are interesting because, a little like clay and ceramics, they are strong irritants and
Allergen Beeswax Beeswax by any other name is still beeswax … and a top contact allergen. Beeswax is in propolis (a top contact allergen itself), Cera flava (the wax produced
Allergen Bartending You won’t see “bartending” on patch test trays or patch test results but this popular activity exposes the skin to several top contact allergens. Some of the things
Allergen Turpentine This pine-derived solvent is a mainstay for painters and hobbyists, and can be found in some cold remedies and liniments. While some reports consider turpentine more of a
Allergen Rubber This top contact allergen is known to cause rashes, peeling, itching but also hyper- and hypo-pigmentations. Complicating things somewhat is that reactions to rubber can be due to
Allergen Sanitary (Period) Pads People have different preferences when it comes to period care but sanitary napkins can be a bit of a minefield for those with sensitive skin because
