An allergen in cosmetics is a substance present in personal care products that can cause allergic reactions in some people. These reactions are due to the sensitization of the immune system to specific substances.
What is an allergen?
An allergen is a substance capable of causing an allergic reaction in certain people.
These substances, although generally harmless to the majority of the population, trigger an excessive response of the immune system in sensitized individuals. Allergens can be present in various sources, such as food, cosmetics , the environment, and even in some medications.
For example, common food allergens include cow's milk, eggs, peanuts, and fish, while environmental allergens can include pollen, dust mites, or animal dander. Allergic reactions range in severity from simple rashes and itching to more serious symptoms such as difficulty breathing and anaphylactic shock .
The frequency of allergies appears to be increasing, making the need for awareness and management of allergens crucial, particularly through clear labeling of products and increased vigilance in the selection of 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 must 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 in cosmetic products can cause a variety of allergic reactions, ranging from mild skin irritations to severe reactions. It is crucial to read ingredient lists carefully and stay informed about substances you may be sensitive to.
Here is a list of the most common allergens found in cosmetic products:
1. Perfumes and fragrances
- Reactions: May cause allergic contact dermatitis.
- Common examples: Limonene, linalool, eugenol, geraniol.
2. Conservatives
- Description: Added to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold.
- Reactions: May cause skin irritation and allergic reactions.
- Common examples: Parabens (methylparaben, propylparaben), methylisothiazolinone (MIT), methylchloroisothiazolinone (CMIT), formaldehyde and formaldehyde releasers (quaternium-15, DMDM hydantoin).
3. Colorants
- Reactions: May cause skin irritation and allergies.
- Common examples: Coal tar dyes, paraphenylenediamine (PPD), azo dyes.
4. Essential oils
- Description: Used for their aromatic and sometimes therapeutic properties.
- Reactions: May cause allergic reactions and irritation, especially on sensitive skin.
- Common examples: Lavender oil, tea tree oil, lemongrass oil.
5. Metals
- Description: Present in certain pigments and dyes.
- Reactions: May cause contact dermatitis.
- Common examples: Nickel, cobalt, chromium.
6. Animal and vegetable proteins
- Description: Used for their moisturizing and nourishing properties.
- Reactions: May cause allergic reactions in sensitized individuals.
- Common examples: Cow's milk, collagen, silk, oats, wheat.
7. Emulsifying agents
- Description: Used to stabilize water and oil mixtures.
- Reactions: May cause skin irritation and allergies.
- Common examples: Lanolin, polysorbates, stearates.
8. Alcohols and solvents
- Description: Used for their disinfectant properties and as solvents.
- Reactions: May 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: May cause allergic reactions in some people.
- Common examples: Grapefruit seed extracts, essential oils (such as thyme and oregano).
What to do in case of allergy?
If you have an allergy due to the application of a cosmetic treatment, it is important to follow a few steps to minimize symptoms and avoid complications. Here is what you can do:
1. Stop using the product immediately .
Stop using the suspected cosmetic product immediately. Do not attempt to reapply it, even in small amounts.
2. Wash the affected area
Rinse the affected area thoroughly with warm water to remove any product residue. Avoid soaps or other cleaning products that may worsen irritation.
3. Apply cold compresses
Use cold compresses or ice cubes 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 hydrocortisone 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 may 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 will be able to perform tests to identify the specific 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 performing allergy testing with the help of a healthcare professional.
8. Avoid similar products
Avoid using cosmetic products that contain the same or similar ingredients as those that caused the allergy. Opt for hypoallergenic and fragrance-free products that are specifically formulated for sensitive skin.
9. Report the reaction
Report the allergic reaction to the cosmetic manufacturer and local health regulatory authority. This can help improve the safety of cosmetic products for all consumers.
10. Keep a diary of skin reactions
Keep a diary of any skin reactions you experience. Record the products used, symptoms, and actions taken. This can be helpful in identifying patterns and avoiding allergens in the future.