Occurrence of Allergens in Cosmetics for Sensitive Skin

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2022

Authors

Martins, MS (Author) Other; Ferreira, MS (Author) Other; Almeida, IF (Author) FFUP; Emilia Sousa (Author) FFUP

Journal

Title: Cosmetics

Vol. 55

Final page: 32

Publisher: MDPI

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 8 Citations

Scopus - 9 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-00W-9WW

DOI: 10.3390/cosmetics9020032

Abstract (EN): Sensitive skin is characterized by symptoms such as stinging and tingling in response to stimuli that usually do not cause unpleasant sensations. Epidemiological studies show that individuals with sensitive skin are more prone to developing skin allergies, although the link between both conditions is unknown. Aiming to evaluate the presence of allergens in facial-skin products for sensitive skin, a pool of 88 cosmetic products from international brands marketed in pharmacies and parapharmacies was analyzed. A list of allergens identified in product labels was compiled and grouped according to their function. Fragrances were the most common allergens, followed by skin-conditioning agents, surfactants, and preservatives. Fragrances presenting the highest use percentages were linalool, benzyl alcohol, geraniol, and citronellol. Overall, the majority of cosmetic formulations were absent of fragrance allergens, being present only in 7% of products. Other allergens were found in most products (95%). This finding should be interpreted with caution, since many of these compounds are rare sensitizers and studies demonstrating their risk for individuals with sensitive skin are lacking. With this study, useful information for health professionals is provided to support their advice and to help consumers choosing cosmetic products.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 13