Two cases of allergic contact dermatitis due to skin-whitening cosmetics

Abstract

Fig. 2. (a,b) A positive reaction to the cosmetic lotion was observed. The photo-patch test produced the same erythema as the patch test, indicating a negative result (Day 2). (c) Additional patch-testing revealed a positive reaction to 3-o-ethyl-ascorbic acid 1% aq. (Day 3).Letter to the Editor / Allergology International 64 (2015) 194e195

A new case of allergic contact dermatitis caused by 3‐o‐ethyl ascorbic acid in facial antiageing cosmetics

“…Allergic contact dermatitis related to 3‐ o ‐ethyl ascorbic acid in cosmetics has already been described in three previous cases . Different concentrations and vehicles have been used for patch testing, ranging from 1% to 10% aq., with 20 negative controls with the latter concentration . In one case, the substance was tested, with positive results, from 0.05% to 5% pet.…”

“…1-3 Different concentrations and vehicles have been used for patch testing, ranging from 1% to 10% aq., with 20 negative controls with the latter concentration. 1,3 In one case, the substance was tested, with positive results, from 0.05% to 5% pet. (+ on D3 and D7), with three negative controls.…”

Allergic contact dermatitis caused by aftershave creams containing Glycyrrhiza inflata

“…Interestingly, weaker reactions to higher concentrations of the steroid‐like enoxolone have been observed during patch testing, which (similarly to the situation with corticosteroids) may be attributable to a dominating anti‐inflammatory effect . A summary of previously published cases of allergic contact dermatitis caused by liquorice derivatives is given in Table S1 ().…”

“…glabridin), whereas water‐soluble (dry) extracts typically contain saponins such as glycyrrhizin, a mixture of potassium and calcium salts of 18β‐glycyrrhizic acid (glycyrrhizate), which may be hydrolysed to form 18β‐glycyrrhetinic acid (syn. glycyrrhizinate; enoxolone) (). Enoxolone possesses (mild) anti‐inflammatory properties, which is why it has been included in a medical specialty to treat atopic and allergic contact dermatitis (Atopiclair®; Graceway Pharmaceuticals, Bristol, TN, USA) .…”

“…as an expectorant, to relieve throat irritation, for peptic ulcers, and for digestive problems) . Furthermore, oil‐soluble liquorice extracts inhibit tyrosinase activity in vitro and promote depigmentation , making them popular ingredients in skin‐lightening cosmetics in Asia. Glycyrrhizin is also used as an adhesive agent in insecticides, and as a surfactant .…”