Cosmetic Skin Allergies
Cosmetics can be divided into 4 product categories:
- Skin care
- Sun protection
- Hair care
- Deodorants
The most important thing in choosing these products is their high quality and reliability. This is to prevent untoward incidents of allergic reactions and irritations, which are common skin issues.
Irritant Contact Dermatitis
Symptoms of irritation consist of dry, red rash and itchy skin. In severe cases, the skin may be burnt and occur through the consistent use of cosmetic products containing AHA, glycolic, BHA, preservatives, fragrance ,parfums, exfoliative or acid-based ingredients or not being recommended especially in sensitive-prone skin or in children skin or in thin and delicate skin like eye, face . Allergic contact dermatitis is a result of exposure to specific substances contained in cosmetics, leading to allergic reactions.
Irritation Caused by Contact Dermatitis
Common Symptoms of Allergies
- A burning pain sensation and itchy skin – this occurs after the use of cosmetics for a period of time, normally for 2 days. Should this happen, discontinue the product immediately, which should result in the symptoms disappearing. The skin around the eyes is most sensitive and is where symptoms are most present.
- Atopic dermatitis, urticaria and swelling rash – normally, these symptoms are not severe; there may be swelling in particular the eyelid areas. However, if symptoms are severe, the swelling and the rashes on the face could affect the respiratory systems.
- The presence of white marks on the face – this could occur as a result of using cosmetics containing Lead or Heavy metal based and skin whitening products. The FDA has banned the use of Lead in cosmetic products. Unfortunately, there are still available on line market using this type of product in their treatments.
- The appearance of black rashes on skin – sometimes, the kind of cosmetic products – perfumes and fragrances – used can cause black rashes on skin following excessive exposure to sunlight.
- Nail and hair fragility – this could happen due to a heavy usage of cosmetic products that contain high chemical agents, such as hair colour substances and nail polish. However, an appearance of acne should not be taken as a form of allergic reaction, as this is more of a result of long-term usage of cosmetic products.
Types of Cosmetic Products Causing Allergies
Facial Cleaning Products
- Primarily, they are soaps, creams, and gels for cleansing the skin of the face and body. Products containing deodorants with a combination of preservatives and fragrances are the primary cause of rashes, redness and itchy skin.
Skin Care Products
- Astringent or toner is used to eliminate impurities in the pores after cleansing. However, the compounds contained in the products such as alcohol and salicylic acid can cause irritations, redness, itchiness, pain or burning sensations. These are symptoms of allergic reactions.
- Moisturisers – red blisters and itchy skin are the results of allergic reactions to such compounds in moisturisers as propylene glycol, protein and some vitamins.
Sun Protection Products
- Sunscreens – allergies to sunscreen application can be caused by direct exposure to the sun. Substances that can cause allergy symptoms include PABA (Paramino Benzoic Acid) and oxybenzone. There may also be allergies to preservatives or colouring ingredients in the products.
Hair Care Products
- The chemicals including sodium and ammonium lauryl sulphate in certain shampoos and conditioners increasingly generate irritation, itchiness or redness of the scalp.
Deodorant Products
- Perfume and fragrances may create allergic reactions resulting in rashes. Additionally, colour cosmetics including eye shadow, blush or lipstick can cause inflammation, redness and itchiness.
Cosmetic Substances Resulting in Allergic Reactions
Fragrance and preservative substances are ingredients increasingly found in cosmetic products.
Fragrance
- The most common cause of allergy symptoms.
- It is vital to read and understand the labels on cosmetic products before purchase.
The labels normally state:
- Unscented – the product contains no fragrances.
- Hypo-allergenic – the product may contains perfumes.
Preservatives
- A mixture of preservatives is added to cosmetic products to prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi, which can lead to skin infections.
- It prevents the deterioration of product quality.
Dealing with Cosmetic Allergies
- Immediately discontinue the use of the suspected cosmetics causing the allergy. A simple method of determining the allergic reactions to a cosmetic is by applying a small sample of the product on the palmer side of the forearm for 2 consecutive days. An appearance of rashes within those days will indicate an allergy to the cosmetics.
- Conducting a patch test to determine what cosmetics and their chemical ingredients cause allergic reactions. The results normally take 2 consecutive days to analyse and another 2 days to examine the overall results. The appearance of a red rash on the tested areas means that there is certainty of an allergic reaction.
- A doctor should be consulted to determine the primary cause of the skin condition, after which the most effective treatment methods can be devised.
Recommended Skincare for Sensitive Skin
This skincare product is formulated to help maintain skin hydration and promote a soft, smooth feel. With carefully selected ingredients, it supports the skin’s natural protective barrier and nourishes for a healthy-looking complexion. Designed for individuals with sensitive skin, it provides gentle care suitable for all ages.
Key Features
- Designed to support the skin’s moisture balance.
- Gentle and suitable for sensitive skin.
- Formulated for use by individuals of all ages.
- Helps maintain hydration and soothes dry and rough skin.
- Contains ingredients that help in skin protection and care.
Key Ingredients & Benefits
1. Ceramide Complexes
- Supports the skin’s natural barrier function
- Helps reduce moisture loss, ideal for dry and sensitive skin
2. Shiso Extract
- A botanical ingredient known for its skin-soothing properties
- Traditionally used in skincare formulations for sensitive skin
3. Dipotassium Glycyrrhizinate
- A licorice root-derived ingredient often included for skin conditioning
4. Phytosphingosine
- A natural sphingolipid, which maintains skin barrier functions, anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties.
5. Tocopherol Acetate
- A form of vitamin E, which is a natural skin-moisturizer and antioxidant. It reduces the formation of free radicals from exposure to UV radiation. It also promotes the healing process, strengthens the skin’s barrier function and prevents the skin’s loss of moisture.
6. Aloe Vera
- Relaxes, calms and soothes the skin.
- Maintains the moisture balance in the skin.
7. Cucumber Extract
- It has a significant soothing effect on the skin.
- Its antioxidant properties soothe, reduce skin irritation and relieves swollen skin.
- Contains essential minerals including magnesium, potassium and silica to assist in minimising wrinkles and fine lines.
- The extract contains anti-inflammatory qualities to heal cuts, burns and insect bites.
- The moisture-regulating product that revitalises and hydrates the skin.
8. Defensil
- Prevents skin hyper-reactivity, irritability, redness and allergies.
- Immediately soothes the skin.
- Effectively regenerates the skin barrier.
- Protects and improves skin.
- Helps improve the appearance of uneven skin tone for a more balanced and healthy-looking complexion.
- Pre-treatment with Defensil Rapid Recovery is designed to support the skin’s natural renewal process and help maintain a healthy skin barrier.
Article By
Dr Wipanee Akarapusit, M.D.
BSL Clinic’s Doctor
