Facial Rash : Lots of Causes

Posting Date: 02/09/2004

Patch testing for facial contact dermatitis may reveal an allergen that the patient or dermatologist had not previously considered because it was not intentionally or directly applied to the face. There are a variety of sources of allergens that patients may not recognize as likely causes of dermatitis and include:

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Rubber

Rubber contains several allergenic chemicals in addition to latex. ?Rubber allergy may cause dermatitis where applicators used to apply eye shadow contact the skin, or where foam rubber sponges are used to apply and remove cosmetics,? said Dr. Nedorost.

Metals

Metal allergy is the most common form of contact dermatitis, and nickel is the most common of all metal allergens. Nickel may be present in costume jewelry, such as earrings, and in eyelash curlers or tweezers used on the face. Gold is also a common allergen and may be transferred to the face from gold rings on the hands.

Acrylates

Acrylates are used in the application of artificial nails and in both home and salon nail repair kits. ?Ironically, nail products can cause dermatitis on the face without causing it on the nail itself, as the nail plate is composed of dead tissue and cannot exhibit dermatitis,? commented Dr. Nedorost. ?Instead, patients may notice itching or burning of the skin following a nail salon service or the application of nail cosmetics at home.? Acrylates are also found in eyeglass frames and dental resins, as well as in adhesives used in industrial work.

Pine Resin

Colophony, or pine resin, is a sticky material that may cause allergy. ?In addition to being used in mascara, pine resin may also be transferred from the fingers due to exposure in hobbies such as bowling, baseball, or playing stringed instruments,? stated Dr. Nedorost.

Sunscreen Ingredients

The sunscreen ingredient benzophenone, which blocks both types of harmful UV radiation, can also cause allergy. ?Photo contact dermatitis is common on areas of the face and neck where sunscreen has been applied and is most often noticed after UV exposure because UV light activates the sunscreen,? stated Dr. Nedorost.