What is an allergen in cosmetic products?

An allergen in cosmetics is a substance found in personal care products that can cause allergic reactions in some individuals. These reactions occur when the immune system becomes sensitive to specific substances.

What is an allergen?

An allergen is a substance that can cause an allergic reaction in some people.

These substances, while generally harmless to most people, trigger an excessive immune response in sensitized individuals. Allergens can be found in various sources, such as food, cosmetic products, the environment, and even certain medications.

For example, common food allergens include cow's milk, eggs, peanuts, and fish, while environmental allergens can be pollen, dust mites, or animal dander. Allergic reactions vary in intensity, ranging from simple skin rashes and itching to more severe symptoms like breathing difficulties and anaphylactic shock.

The frequency of allergies appears to be increasing, making awareness and allergen management crucial, especially through clear product labeling and increased vigilance in selecting substances present in your daily environment.

What allergens are present in cosmetics?

Currently, 26 allergenic substances have been identified by the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) and are officially listed in Annex III of Cosmetic Regulation No. 1223/2009 - No. 89. Consequently, cosmetic industries must comply with regulatory requirements and are obliged to indicate these substances on the packaging of the finished cosmetic product when their concentration exceeds a certain threshold. This obligation is essential to inform consumers who know they are allergic to one or more substances on this list. Whether of natural or synthetic origin, the majority of these allergens are fragrance components or constituents of essential oils.

Allergens present in cosmetic products can cause various allergic reactions, ranging from mild skin irritations to severe reactions. It is crucial to carefully read ingredient lists and stay informed about substances to which you may be sensitive.

 Here is a list of the most common allergens found in cosmetic products:

1. Perfumes and fragrances

  • Reactions: Can cause allergic contact dermatitis.
  • Common examples: Limonene, linalool, eugenol, geraniol.

2. Preservatives

  • Description: Added to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold.
  • Reactions: Can cause skin irritations and allergic reactions.
  • Common examples: Parabens (methylparaben, propylparaben), methylisothiazolinone (MIT), methylchloroisothiazolinone (CMIT), formaldehyde and formaldehyde releasers (quaternium-15, DMDM hydantoin).

3. Colorants

  • Reactions: Can cause skin irritations and allergies.
  • Common examples: Coal tar dyes, paraphenylenediamine (PPD), azo dyes.

4. Essential Oils

  • Description: Used for their aromatic and sometimes therapeutic properties.
  • Reactions: Can cause allergic reactions and irritation, especially on sensitive skin.
  • Common examples: Lavender oil, tea tree oil, citronella oil.

5. Metals

  • Description: Found in some pigments and dyes.
  • Reactions: Can cause contact dermatitis.
  • Common examples: Nickel, cobalt, chromium.

6. Animal and Plant Proteins

  • Description: Used for their hydrating and nourishing properties.
  • Reactions: Can cause allergic reactions in sensitized individuals.
  • Common examples: Cow's milk, collagen, silk, oats, wheat.

7. Emulsifying Agents

  • Description: Used to stabilize mixtures of water and oil.
  • Reactions: Can cause skin irritation and allergies.
  • Common examples: Lanolin, polysorbates, stearates.

8. Alcohols and Solvents

  • Description: Used for their disinfectant properties and as solvents.
  • Reactions: Can dry out the skin and cause irritation.
  • Common examples: Denatured alcohol, propylene glycol, ethanol.

9. Natural Preservatives

  • Description: Used as natural alternatives to synthetic preservatives.
  • Reactions: Can cause allergic reactions in some individuals.
  • Common examples: Grapefruit seed extracts, essential oils (such as thyme and oregano).

What to do in case of an allergic reaction?

If you experience an allergic reaction after using a cosmetic product, it's important to follow a few steps to minimize symptoms and prevent complications. Here's what you can do:

1. Immediately stop using the product

Immediately stop using the suspected cosmetic product. Do not try to apply it again, even in small amounts.

2. Wash the affected area

Rinse the affected area thoroughly with lukewarm water to remove any product residue. Avoid soaps or other cleansing products that could worsen the irritation.

3. Apply cold compresses

Use cold compresses or ice wrapped in a clean cloth to soothe irritated skin and reduce inflammation and itching.

4. Use soothing creams

Apply a soothing or anti-inflammatory cream, such as a hydrocortisone-based cream, to reduce redness and itching. Consult a pharmacist or doctor before applying medicated creams.

5. Take antihistamines

If the allergic reaction is more severe, oral antihistamines can help reduce symptoms. Consult a healthcare professional to find out which medication is most appropriate for you.

6. Consult a healthcare professional

If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a dermatologist or allergist. They can perform tests to precisely identify the allergen responsible and recommend appropriate treatment.

7. Identify the allergen

Try to identify the ingredient or ingredients in the product that caused the allergic reaction. This may involve carefully reading the product's ingredient list or undergoing allergy tests with the help of a healthcare professional.

8. Avoid similar products

Avoid using cosmetic products containing the same or similar ingredients to those that caused the allergy. Opt for hypoallergenic and fragrance-free products, specifically formulated for sensitive skin.

9. Report the reaction

Report the allergic reaction to the cosmetic product manufacturer and your local health regulatory authority. This can help improve the safety of cosmetic products for all consumers.

10. Keep a record of skin reactions

Keep a journal of all skin reactions you experience. Note the products used, symptoms, and actions taken. This can be helpful for identifying patterns and avoiding allergens in the future.

 

Back to blog