Fragrance allergies

Gerberick, G. F., et al., Understanding fragrance allergy using an exposure-based risk assessment approach, Contact Derm. 45, 333-340, 2001. 

The fragrance mix, introduced in 1977 by Larsen (1), is used to detect sensitivity to fragrances in, for example, cosmetics and household products (SEDA-20, 149) (2). The mix contains eight widely used fragrance compounds. Additional indicators of fragrance allergy are balsam of Peru and colophony. 

Oak moss is a common ingredient in perfumes and is included in the standard fragrance mix used to screen for fragrance allergies (Johansen et al. 2002). Of 59,298 persons that tested positively to fragrance mix between 1996 and 2002,29.9% had reactions to oak moss (Schnuch et al. 2004). In persons with allergic reactions to Frullania, many also tested positive to oak moss (Goncalo 1987). 

Among 167 patients with suspected fragrance allergy in a worldwide investigation of fragrance contact dermatitis, 6.6% were allergic to sandalwood, while 1.8% had irritation reactions to sandalwood (Larsen et al. 1996). Among 641 Israeli patients with eczema, none tested positive to sandalwood (Trattner and David 2003). 

Sorbitan sesquioleate present in the mix may occasionally induce an allergic response (Frosch et al. 1995b). Therefore, this emulsifier should always be routinely tested to avoid misinterpreting a positive reaction to sorbitan sesquioleate in the mix as fragrance allergy. 

Fragrances. Hair cosmetics are marked with a characteristic scent. It is difficult to determine whether a fragrance allergy in a hairdresser is caused by professional or private exposure. 

In its Interim position on Fragrance allergy SCCNFP/0202/99 adopted at the SCCNFP session of June 23,1999, the SCCNFP already stated Contact allergy to fragrance substances is an important clinical problem. Up to 10% of individuals with eczema are allergic to fragrance substances and possibly 1-2% of the general population. ... 

As a result, the SCCNFP published, as a follow-up to the Interim position, its opinion SCCNFP/0017/98 (adopted by the SCCNFP during the plenary session of Decanber 8, 1999) entitled Fragrance allergy in consumers—review of the problem Analysis of the need for appropriate consumer information and Identification of consumer allergens. ... 

A critical review of the problem of fragrance allergy in consumers. 

Memorandum on the SCCNFP Opinion concerning Fragrance Allergy in Consumers adopted by the SCCNFP during the 16th Plenary Meeting of March 13, 2001. 

SCCNFP/0017/98 Final of December 1999 SCCNFP opinion concerning Fragrance allergy in consumers—a review of the problem Analysis of the need for appropriate consumer information and identification of... 

SCCNFP/0202/99 SCCNFP Opinion concerning the interim position on fragrance allergy—adopted by the Scientific Committee on Cosmetic Products and Non-food Products intended for Consumers during the plenary session of June 23,1999. 

Scientific Committee on Cosmetic Products and Non-Food Products (SCCNFP) intended for consumers, 1999, Fragrance Allergy in Consumers. A Review of the Problem. SCCNFP/0017/98 final. EU Commission, Brussels, ... 

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