Allergic contact dermatitis caused by colophony in an epilating product.

Abstract

Considering the widespread use of colophony-containing epilating products and the frequency of sensitization to colophony, it is somewhat surprising that reports of allergic contact dermatitis from these products are so infrequent. Reactions to colophony can be severe, and they may present even after initial exposure (primary sensitization). Consequently, health care practitioners should be aware of potential colophony-induced allergic contact dermatitis in patients exposed to epilating products. Patch testing with commercially available colophony unmodified rosins often fails to detect reactions to the modified-rosin derivatives found in the actual epilating products. Therefore, the evaluation of colophony allergy may require testing with the patient's own products as well as additional modified colophony rosins. We describe a case of allergic contact dermatitis caused by colophony found in an epilating product.

• Authors: Rhonda D Quain, Giuseppe Militello, Glen H Crawford
• Journal: Dermatitis : contact, atopic, occupational, drug (Dermatitis) Vol. 18 Issue 2 Pg. 96-8 (Jun 2007) ISSN: 1710-3568 [Print] United States
• PMID: 17498415 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Resins, Plant
• Waxes
• rosin

Topics

• Adult
• Dermatitis, Allergic Contact (diagnosis, etiology)
• Female
• Hair Removal (adverse effects, methods)
• Humans
• Patch Tests
• Resins, Plant (adverse effects, chemistry)
• Waxes (adverse effects, chemistry)