Fragrance

Allergic contact dermatitis is a T-cell dependent, delayed-type (Type IV) hypersensitivity reaction that has a high impact both in terms of patient morbidity and economics. This type of hypersensitivity reaction is primarily instigated by small lipophilic chemicals (haptens) with a molecular weight less than 500 Daltons. These chemical allergens trigger a complex immunologic cascade in the skin, which leads to the clinical picture of allergic contact dermatitis. Click on the links below to find out more information about Fragrance Allergic Contact Dermatitis.

Fragrance Mix: Review Video

“Fragrances are commonly added to skin care and cosmetic products…such as shampoos, toothpaste, lotions and cleaning products. Fragrances are very similar and in some cases identical to flavors. They also occur naturally in some foods and spices, therefore, some people with a fragrance allergy may have a problem from certain foods.”

Lyral and Fragrance Mix II: Review Article

“Fragrances represent the most common cause of cosmetic contact allergy.”

Fragrances and Flavorants: Review Article

“product labeling can be complicated because labels may list individual fragrance names without indicating ‘fragrance,’ or may include inadvertently misleading labeling. For instance, the terms ‘unscented’ and ‘fragrance-free,’ are not synonymous. ‘Unscented’ simply means that a product lacks a scent; however, masking fragrances may be present in order to eliminate odor.”