Not An Allergen. Oatmeal Not on published allergen lists, oatmeal is a traditionally popular ingredient to help manage atopic and contact dermatitis and other skin problems. There have been some reports of
Allergen. Cobalt A strong, common allergen, cobalt is a naturally-occurring metal, frequently found with nickel, and was Allergen of the Year in 2016. If your patch test showed an allergy
Allergen. Vitamin E: Found naturally in avocados and green, leafy vegetables, vitamin E is an excellent antioxidant. Topically, however, vitamin E is a common allergen. If you have sensitive skin or
Not An Allergen. Silicone: There are concerns about silicone’s possible impact on the environment, and, in the case of nanoparticles, the possibility of such small molecules penetrating beyond the skin
Allergen. Carmine: It’s a gorgeous color, and used to be a less-allergenic option for pigmenting cosmetics, but carmine has finally made it to the latest published allergen lists. Arguably because it
Allergen. Benzophenones: 2014’s Allergen of the Year by the American Contact Dermatitis Society, benzophenones are popular in several products because of their UV-absorbing properties. While their most obvious use might be in sunscreens, benzophenones
Allergen. Moss: That soothing color and deep scent is magical on walks in the woods, but moss (oak and tree, for example) is part of Fragrance Mix I, a common presence
Allergen. Honey, Beeswax, Propolis: Who doesn’t love honey? Honey — in particular raw, wild honey — is such a great treat. But honey, beeswax, propolis (related ingredients) are in published allergen lists.
Not An Allergen. Canvas: Strictly speaking, canvas is not an allergen. However, as anyone with clothing contact dermatitis will tell you, it’s not that simple either. Most cloths are treated
