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FDA's study on cosmetic allergens
2025-05-22
Cosmetics (such as soaps, lotions, face and eye makeup, perfume, etc.) can cause somegroupAllergic reactions. Many people suffer from allergies, and anyone of any age can develop them. An allergic reaction is an overreaction of the immune system to a substance that may otherwise be harmless. Allergens trigger the immune system to release chemicals, such as antibodies, that cause allergy symptoms. Many people are familiar with flowering plants.ofSeasonal allergies caused by pollen or food allergies. Allergic reactions to cosmetics most often manifest as an itchy, red rash or contact dermatitis.
Common allergens in cosmetics
FDAListFive common allergens,Divided into: natural rubber, fragrances, preservatives, dyes and metals.
What consumers can do
The best way to prevent allergic reactions is to learn about possible allergens in cosmetics.OwnWhat you are sensitive to and how to avoid it. One way to achieve this is to read the ingredient lists of products carefully and avoidKnownOr ingredients that you think you are allergic to.onlyexamineTerms like “hypoallergenic,” “fragrance-free,” or “suitable for sensitive skin” are not enough,Under the Fair Packaging and Labelling Act (Under the authority of the FPLA, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires that cosmetics sold to consumers at the retail level must carry ingredient declarations.
In addition, consumers shouldshouldAlways check product labels and follow the manufacturer's instructions. It is especially important to read labels on products because some products contain substances that may cause allergies, whether you have an allergy or not.allergyFor example, some manufacturers of hair dye instruct users to test a small amount of the product to see if they are sensitive to an ingredient before using it more widely.
Symptoms of an allergic reaction
Allergic reactions vary in severity and may include hives, itchy skin, rash, flaking or peeling skin, facial swelling, irritation of the eyes, nose, and mouth, wheezing, and anaphylaxis.seriousofAllergic reactionPotentially life-threatening,Symptoms include lack of consciousness, shortness of breath, difficulty swallowing, dizziness, chest pain, rapid and weak pulse, nausea and vomiting.If symptoms of an allergic reaction occur, seek medical attention immediately.
In addition to allergic contact dermatitis, fragrance ingredients may also affect the respiratory system, especially for people with asthma, allergic rhinitis, and viral respiratory infections. For people who are sensitive to certain fragrances, inhaling them may cause shortness of breath, a feeling of choking, coughing, phlegm, a runny or stuffy nose, headache, chest tightness, and wheezing.
Allergen testing
Fortunately,You don't have to wait until you have an allergic reaction to try to figure it out.OwnWhat are you allergic to?usCanin advanceGet tested,Know exactly which allergen is causing the reaction,therebyAvoid further exposure to the substance.
Patch testIt is often used to diagnose dermatitis, or skin irritation and swelling. This test involves applying a small amount of the allergen to the skin and covering the skin.48 hours. Your doctor will examine your skin 72 to 96 hours later and check for signs of an allergic reaction, including redness, rash, or hives. Based on the symptoms present, your doctor can determine whether you have an allergic reaction. Patch testing requires two to three office visits.
forVery sensitive skinofpatient,Patch testpossiblePoor results, cannot help identify allergens。
FDA-likeRelatedResearch
To better understand allergens in cosmetics,The FDA is focusing its efforts in three main areas:
1.Adverse event reporting monitoring
2.Conduct scientific research into the mechanisms of allergic reactions and how allergens interact with the human immune system
3.Conduct research on consumer behavior, frequency of adverse reactions, and consumer awareness of allergens in cosmetics.
to this end,FDA is working withRelatedThese partnerships allow for a better understanding of how allergic reactions are induced and for the identification of new compounds that can induce allergic reactions.passWe are collaborating with research partners to develop animal-free testing methods to identify potential allergens and exploring whether allergen testing data can help us further identify potential allergenic ingredients in cosmetics to understand quality and potential gaps.
The FDA is also involved in a study specific to fragrance ingredients. The goal of this study is to determine the potential for adverse reactions from using products containing fragrance ingredients. This project will help determine acceptable levels of a variety of fragrance ingredients used in various rinse-off and leave-on cosmetic products.
However, strengthening the science of allergensResearchonlyFDAOne of the areas of interest.The FDA is also taking steps to learn more about consumer behavior and use of cosmetics.at the same timeWith the cosmetics industrycooperateinterviews to understand how the manufacture, marketing, and sale of cosmetics are affected by information about allergic reactions to cosmetics. In addition, interviews with state and local regulatorsFDAalsolearnarriveTheir awareness of safety issues associated with cosmetic ingredients, including potential allergens, and how these issues can be monitored and addressed.