The Flies in the Ointment: How Ingredients Cause Contact Dermatitis
When we encounter a rash or irritation on the skin, it’s easy to assume that it was caused by something in the environment. Yet, for many, the real culprit is an ingredient in a product that they have been using for years. In this article, we’ll explore some of the ways that ingredients can cause contact dermatitis.
The biggest cause of contact dermatitis is coming into contact with an allergen, which causes the skin to react. Allergens are substances that the body is particularly sensitive to, and they can be found in many different skincare products, perfumes, and even the air we breathe. Common allergens include fragrances, preservatives, and propylene glycol. Allergens can be tricky to avoid, as they can be hidden in ingredient lists and are often found in industry-standard products.
Another type of ingredient that can cause contact dermatitis is irritants. Unlike allergens, irritants don’t cause an allergic reaction, but can still be a problem for those with sensitive skin. Common irritants include artificial fragrances, sodium lauryl sulfate, and sodium laureth sulfate. These are often found in shower gels, shampoos, and cleansers.
It’s also possible for contact dermatitis to be caused by a combination of both allergens and irritants. For example, a product may contain a combination of both fragrances and preservatives, both of which can cause irritation. It’s important to take the time to read ingredient labels and look for both irritants and allergens, as this will help you identify if a product is likely to cause a reaction.
Finally, contact dermatitis can also be caused by fragrances that are no longer in use. Many products use fragrances that have be “retired”, meaning they are no longer used but can still cause reactions. This is why it’s important to carefully read the label of any product you are considering purchasing and ensure that it doesn’t contain any retired fragrances.
Contact dermatitis is a common problem, but luckily it is one that is easy to address. By avoiding allergens and irritants, reading labels carefully, and looking for retired fragrances, you can help reduce your risk of contact dermatitis. It’s also important to note that the only way to treat contact dermatitis is to avoid the substances that caused the reaction in the first place. Taking these steps can help you keep your skin in top condition and avoid irritation.
