Allergies and Labelling
Allergic reactions are triggered by a wide range of substances such as types of food, pollen, animal fur and dust mites.
Allergic reactions to cosmetic products are very rare—around one reaction in many million product uses, according to scientists and doctors. Reactions that do occur are mainly localised delayed and localised skin reactions.
Guidance for allergy sufferers
In Europe and many other countries, all the ingredients in cosmetics are listed on product packaging. Once an allergy sufferer knows which substances are likely to trigger a reaction, they can check whether they are present as ingredients of products before these substances buy and use them.
Cosmetics manufacturers are ready to help allergy patients and their doctors. They will willingly supply samples of individual cosmetic ingredients for testing on sufferers.
The substances which trigger an allergic reaction in an individual can be identified by a doctor using “patch tests”. Sufferers can help their doctor by giving detailed information about the everyday products they use, including cosmetics.
Fragrance labelling
Fragrance ingredients listed on cosmetic products have become more detailed in recent years. In 2005, the cosmetics industry began labelling fragrance substances individually to show where they are present in products above a certain level. Previously, fragrance was listed as “parfum”.
The initiative has allowed the small number of allergy sufferers who react to fragrance substances to be well informed when choosing their cosmetics. It also supports dermatologists seeking to identify the allergens affecting their patients.
Related Downloads
- Fact Sheet Allergies (22.68 KB) Download