SULFATES: Allergen or Not An Allergen?
Not An Allergen. Sulfates: “Sulfates” is a pretty broad term that has gotten a lot of bad press. While some of these bubble-producers are proven irritants, they are not on published allergen lists. Sulfates like SLS (Soduim Lauryl Sulfate/Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate) and SLES (Sodium Laureth Sulfate/Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate) are fairly well tolerated, but there are more reports of […]
THIURAM: Allergen or Not An Allergen?
Allergen. Thiuram: What do onions, erasers, condoms, garden hoses, makeup sponges, balloons, sneakers and swimsuits have in common? Many contain thiuram or thiuram mix, or residue from thiuram sprayed on them. What is frustrating about allergens like thiuram is that they can be in so many things that, besides containing thiuram, don’t seem to have anything to do with […]
TALC: Allergen or Not An Allergen?
Not An Allergen. Talc: While there is some buzz around talc, talc is not on published allergen lists. Furthermore, talc is generally recognized as safe for cosmetics. In its pure form, talc is a natural mineral, composed mainly of magnesium, silicon and oxygen. Therefore, it is not talc itself but the possible impurities, like asbestos, that are of concern. Asbestiform […]
BACITRACIN: Allergen or Not An Allergen?
Allergen. Bacitracin: Much as you don’t want to pour gasoline on a fire, you don’t want your wound care to give you a new skin problem! This popular topical antibiotic is an allergen. Bacitracin was even the American Contact Dermatitis Society‘s “allergen of the year” in 2003. Importantly, bacitracin has been a regular in the top ten since 1998. While […]
More “Ow” Than Glow? Skin Allergies Are More Common Than Ever
Sensitive Subject: Make that subjects. Lots of them. 1 in 4 people is allergic to common skin care and cosmetic ingredients. And, like eczema and other allergies, this number is on the rise. Below, we go through skin allergies by the numbers and what you can do to prevent reactions. Want even more details, data and sources? Check out One […]
Watch My Nickel Allergy Happen
Allergies can come and go. Don’t obsess about the chances, but don’t be surprised if you suddenly find yourself allergic to something you’ve used your whole life.
Sunscreen Isn’t Just For Summer (And Your Laptop Could Be Causing Your Dark Spots)
Sunscreen isn’t a summer thing. It’s as daily a must as brushing your teeth: both help you look great and prevent serious damage! You’re not out frolicking in the sun? It’s important to remember that sun damage is cumulative — every bit of exposure adds up. Your skin doesn’t “reset” when you’re back in the […]
What’s New In Skin Allergy in NYC?
By Jennifer Collins, M.D. Gramercy Allergy & Asthma in New York City | Mar 15, 2016 I just returned from the American Contact Dermatitis Society 27th Annual Meeting in Washington DC. This entire day was focused on new and emerging trends in skin allergy including hot topics in contact dermatitis. I was surrounded by experts from […]
4 Reasons You Need Spa Hour
A spa hour can seem inessential when compared to other big wellness tips — more of a splurge than a legitimately healthy thing to do. But make no mistake: this bliss can do so much for you. It turns out that a spa hour a month (or a week) might be one of the most efficient things you can do for your overall health in terms of both the number of proven benefits and the importance of those benefits.