Contact Allergic Dermatitis to Cosmetics and Topical Anti-ageing Products

ABSTRACT

The main objective of this review article is to provide an update of the literature concerning delayedtypereactions or contact allergic dermatitis caused by cosmetic and anti-ageing ingredients. We scanfor tips on how to recognize these reactions from the history and clinical signs. The common allergensreported include fragrances and preservatives. Be aware of the new allergens. There is a need to patchtest with some of the heavy metals because of their presence in cosmetics but besides nickel, cobaltand occasional mercury, heavy metals do not frequently cause allergic contact dermatitis. They aredangerous because of their systemic toxicity on other internal organs. It is important to recognizethe source of the contact allergens that have been documented in various continents. Reports fromAsian countries (India, China, Korea, Singapore, Malaysia and Japan) have been included to increasethe awareness of cosmetic induced contact allergic dermatitis in this region. This knowledge uponreflections may assist us in our own daily practice.