Negative formaldehyde release from textiles washed with a formaldehyde-containing laundry soap according to manufacturer instructions: An application of chromotropic acid testing

BACKGROUND

Formaldehyde is a common preservative used to prevent microbial growth in water. It can be found in personal care products and household cleaning products, including laundry detergents. Formaldehyde has frequently been recognised as a cause of allergic contact dermatitis, but whether it remains present in textiles washed with formaldehyde-containing laundry detergents is unknown.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to utilise the chromotropic acid method (CAM) to assess formaldehyde release from textiles washed with a laundry detergent known to contain formaldehyde.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Textiles were laundered with a detergent containing calcium formate at four concentrations (0×, 0.5×, 1× and 5× the recommended amount per manufacturer label) and kept wet or allowed to dry. Select textiles were subjected to an additional rinse cycle. Textiles were then tested utilising the CAM. A sample of the pure laundry detergent was also tested using the CAM.

RESULTS

The CAM was positive only for wet textiles washed at 5× the recommended concentration of detergent and pure detergent. All dry textiles were negative.

CONCLUSIONS

Formaldehyde release was not detected from any textiles washed following the manufacturer's recommendations. Once dry, it is likely safe for formaldehyde-allergic patients to wear textiles washed with formaldehyde-containing detergents.

Quantification of Methylisothiazolinone and Methylchloroisothiazolinone Preservatives by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography

Isothiazolinone preservatives (methylisothiazolinone (MIT) and methylchloroisothiazolinone (CMIT) are commonly used in cosmetics, industrial and household products. However, these isothiazolinone derivatives are known to cause allergic contact dermatitis. Hence, a sensitive, accurate, and reliable method for the detection of these compounds is thus warranted. The study aims to analyze concentrations of MIT and CMIT by high performance liquid chromatography. The analytical method used for quantification of MIT and CMIT in cosmetic products (leave-on-baby wet wipes) complies with the validation acceptance criteria (international standards ISO 5725, EU25 European Union for cosmetic regulations). MIT and CMIT were extracted and analyzed in leave-on baby wet-wipes collected from different stores in Riyadh city. Extraction was performed by ultrasonication of the samples, solid-phase extraction, and liquid-liquid extraction. Ten (10) µL of the sample was injected into the HPLC system and samples were analyzed with a mixture of acetic acid and methanol (80:20 v/v) in an isocratic mode. The flow rate was maintained at 1 mL/min. UV detection was performed at 274 nm. The results demonstrated recoveries between 90 and 106%, measurement uncertainty of C +/- 0.4% for methylisothiazolinone and C +/- 0.03% for methylchloroisothiazolinone, repeatability limit (r = 0.2%) and intermediate precision limit; R = 2% and R² of 0.9996.

Formaldehyde Release From Eyelash Glues: Analysis Using the Chromotropic Acid Method

BACKGROUND

Popularity of eyelash enhancements has increased dramatically. Eyelash enhancements are available as an over-the-counter consumer product with glue included and as a professional product where proprietary glues are typically used. Both types of eyelash extension glues may release formaldehyde despite not being declared as an ingredient. Although formaldehyde is a carcinogen and may cause allergic contact dermatitis, few studies have assessed its presence in eyelash glues.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to evaluate professional and consumer eyelash glues for the presence of formaldehyde using the chromotropic acid method (CAM).

METHODS

A total of 37 eyelash glues were evaluated: 17 consumer eyelash glues (2 of which declared formaldehyde) and 20 professional eyelash glues (none of which declared formaldehyde) were purchased and analyzed with the CAM of testing.

RESULTS

For consumer eyelash glues, the 2 glues that declared formaldehyde were positive on CAM testing as well as 2 glues (13.3% [2/15]) that did not declare formaldehyde. Of the 20 professional eyelash glues, 15 (75.0%) were positive for formaldehyde.

CONCLUSIONS

Some consumer eyelash glues and most professional eyelash glues released formaldehyde when evaluated with CAM. Patients and clinicians should be aware that both consumer and professional eyelash glues can be sources of formaldehyde.

Contact allergy in children with and without atopic dermatitis: an Italian multicenter study

Background

Contact allergy and atopic dermatitis (AD) are both common inflammatory T cell‐mediated diseases and many factors may influence the prevalence of contact allergy in AD patients. In children, their possible correlation was debated with conflicting results.

Objectives

The present study aimed to assess the prevalence of contact sensitivity in children and to investigate the association with AD.

Materials and methods

A retrospective multicentre study on children aged from 0 to 14 years patch tested between January 2017 and December 2018 was performed. Children were consecutively patch tested with the SIDAPA (Società Italiana Dermatologia Allergologica Professionale Ambientale) baseline series.

Results

Among the 432 children investigated for contact allergy, 125 (28.9%) showed a positive reaction to at least one of the allergens tested, with a higher prevalence of positive patch test reactions in girls (32.3%) than in boys (25.0%). The most frequent contact allergens were nickel sulphate (10.2%), cobalt chloride (6.7%), methylisothiazolinone (3.7%), fragrance mix‐2 (3.2%), potassium dichromate (2.8%), fragrance mix‐1 (2.1%) and methylchloroisothiazolinone/methylisothiazolinone (2.1%). One‐hundred‐three children (23.8%) suffered from AD showing a higher prevalence of positive patch test (36.9%) compared to children without AD (26.4%).

Conclusions

Despite the topic being still controversial, the present study suggests a consistent prevalence of contact allergy among children with higher sensitivity rate among children with AD than without AD.

Cosmetic preservative labelling in philippine products in accordance with philippine regulations

BACKGROUND

Preservatives are usually added to a wide array of consumer products to prevent growth of microbes and to prevent product destabilization and degradation. However, many of these preservatives are common skin sensitizers and may cause allergic contact dermatitis. The amount of preservatives may vary per country or region according to their respective legislation, and may be reported in differences in prevalence rates of contact dermatitis.

OBJECTIVE

To examine and identify preservatives in consumer products in accordance with Philippine legislation. To verify the accuracy of the list of ingredients of Philippine cosmetic products as legislated by the Philippine Bureau of Food and Drug Administration.

METHODS

A total of 65 commonly used Philippine consumer products ranging from liquid facial and body washes, bar soaps, laundry detergents, feminine hygiene washes and wipes, shampoos and conditioners, sunblock, and moisturizers were selected. Ingredients noted on labels were documented. Products were subsequently investigated chemically for the presence of either methylchloroisothiazolinone, methylisothiazolinone, and formaldehyde.

RESULTS

The preservatives most commonly used in cosmetic products in the Philippine market are: methylchloroisothiazolinone (MCI), methylisothiazolinone (MI), and/or formaldehyde. In accordance with Philippine legislation, almost all products provided a detailed ingredient list as printed on the packaging. Measurements of MCI/MI ranged from less than 1 ppm to 16 ppm, and MI only ranged from less than 1 ppm to 66 ppm, whereas formaldehyde was noted to range from less than 2.5 ppm to greater than 40 ppm in the products tested. Most products are manufactured by international brands with a few products being manufactured locally.

CONCLUSIONS

The preservatives found in cosmetic products were MCI, MI and formaldehyde. There were discrepancies found in the preservatives and labelling of these products, with a majority of investigated Philippine products labelled inaccurately with varying concentrations of preservatives. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Controversy around parabens: Alternative strategies for preservative use in cosmetics and personal care products

Parabens usage as preservatives in cosmetics and personal care products have been debated among scientists and consumers. Parabens are easy to production, effective and cheap, but its safety status remains controversial. Other popular cosmetics preservatives are formaldehyde, triclosan, methylisothiazolinone, methylchloroisothiazolinone, phenoxyethanol, benzyl alcohol and sodium benzoate. Although their high antimicrobial effectiveness, they also exhibit some adverse health effects. Lately, scientists have shown that natural substances such as essential oils and plant extracts present antimicrobial potential. However, their use in cosmetic is a challenge. The present review article is a comprehensive summary of the available methods to prevent microbial contamination of cosmetics and personal care products, which can allow reducing the use of parabens in these products.

Formaldehyde in Electronic Cigarette Liquid (Aerosolized Liquid)

BACKGROUND

Aerosolized liquid (e-liquid) of electronic cigarettes can be toxic. Beyond the solvent (propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin) and nicotine, little is known about the liquid composition. Formaldehyde, a carcinogen and source of contact dermatitis, has been reported in the vaporized e-liquid, but no studies have assessed the actual e-liquid.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to evaluate e-liquid products for the presence of formaldehyde.

METHODS

Sixteen e-liquid products were purchased and analyzed for the release of formaldehyde using the chromotropic acid method of detection.

RESULTS

Of the 16 e-liquids purchased, 4 (25%) were positive for the presence of formaldehyde; 2 were flavored and 2 were nonflavored. All positive e-liquids were in pods or disposable electronic cigarette devices, and 2 were purchased from local vape shops. The average nicotine content in the positive e-liquids was 3.85% versus 4.03% in the negative e-liquids.

CONCLUSIONS

The e-liquid products contain toxic chemicals not declared on product labels, as shown in this study with 25.0% of e-liquids containing formaldehyde. All positive e-liquids were within pods or disposable devices. Continued analysis of e-liquids and increased product regulation are needed.

Men's Facial Moisturizers in the Metrosexual Era

BACKGROUND

Manufacturers are increasingly branding personal care products (PCPs) specifically for men.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to characterize ingredients and claims of facial moisturizers marketed to men.

METHODS

Men's facial moisturizers from 7 different online retailers were identified in June-September 2018. Ingredients were grouped and identified per the Ingredient Database of the Personal Care Products Council. Potential allergens were identified using the 2017 American Contact Dermatitis Society (ACDS) Core Allergen Series and 2017-2018 North American Contact Dermatitis Group Screening Series.

RESULTS

Sixty-five men's facial moisturizers were identified with a total of 1930 ingredients. On average, there were 12 ACDS Core and 9 North American Contact Dermatitis Group Screening allergens per product. A total of 70.8% of products contained between 6 and 15 ACDS Core allergens. The most notable allergens were fragrances (present in 98.5% of products), propylene glycol/derivatives (32.3%), parabens (29.2%), and alkyl glucosides (26.2%). Interestingly, less than 10% of products contained the most common allergenic preservatives in PCPs: formaldehyde releasers and methylisothiazolinone.

CONCLUSIONS

Men's facial moisturizers commonly contain fragrances, emulsifiers, and glucosides but relatively few allergenic preservatives. This may reflect changes in modern PCP preservation. These findings are important for modern dermatologists to be aware, especially in a new era of male skincare.

Patch Testing With Methylchloroisothiazolinone/Methylisothiazolinone Using a New Diagnostic Mix-A Multicenter Study From the International Contact Dermatitis Research Group

BACKGROUND

In the early 1980s, a preservative containing a mixture of methylchloroisothiazolinone (MCI) and methylisothiazolinone (MI) in a ratio of 3:1 was introduced. This mixture (mix) has been patch tested at 100 ppm (0.01%) worldwide and at 200 ppm (0.02%) in Sweden since 1986 and also in the European baseline series since 2014.

OBJECTIVE

A new aqueous mix of MCI 0.015% and MI 0.2% was compared with patch testing with the 2 aqueous baseline preparations of MCI/MI 0.02% and MI 0.2%.

METHODS

Four thousand three hundred ninety-seven patients with dermatitis in 12 International Contact Dermatitis Research Group dermatology departments from 3 continents were patch tested simultaneously with the 3 preparations.

RESULTS

The frequency of positive patch tests to the allergens varied between 0% and 26.7% in the 12 test centers. The new mixture MCI/MI 0.215% in aqua (aq) detected significantly more patients with MCI/MI allergy than both MCI/MI 0.02% aq (P < 0.001) and MI 0.2% aq (P < 0.001) alone and combined.

CONCLUSIONS

The results favor replacing the preparations MCI/MI 0.02% aq and MI 0.2% aq with the mixture MCI/MI 0.215% aq in the International Contact Dermatitis Research Group baseline series.

Isothiazolinone Detection in Dish Soap and Personal Care Products: Comparison of Lovibond Isothiazolinone Test Kit and Ultrahigh-Performance Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry

BACKGROUND

Isothiazolinones are commonly used preservatives, which may cause allergic contact dermatitis. The Lovibond Isothiazolinone Test Kit (LITK) has been reported to successfully identify clinically relevant, occult isothiazolinones in patient personal care products.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to analyze dish soaps and personal care products that do not declare isothiazolinones ("no-ISO") for the presence of isothiazolinones via 2 methods: LITK and ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS).

METHODS

No-ISO dish soaps (n = 9), a convenience sample of patient products (n = 6), and controls (positive [isothiazolinone declared], n = 5; negative, n = 2) were tested with LITK (X3) and UHPLC-MS/MS.

RESULTS

Several no-ISO dish soaps and personal products were positive for isothiazolinones (LITK, n = 12; UHPLC-MS/MS, n = 3). Ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry specifically identified methylisothiazolinone alone in 1 no-ISO dish soap, methylchloroisothiazolinone in another, and both in a third. Using UHPLC-MS/MS as the criterion standard, we observed the accuracy of LITK for 9 dish soaps was poor (sensitivity, 66.7%; specificity, 20%) and very poor for 6 personal care products (sensitivity, 0%; specificity, 0%).

CONCLUSIONS

Personal products may contain undeclared isothiazolinones. The current study found that LITK had poor accuracy for testing dish soap and personal care products. Clinicians should be aware of these factors when managing patients with contact allergy to isothiazolinones.

Phenoxyethanol-Based Embalming for Anatomy Teaching: An 18 Years' Experience with Crosado Embalming at the University of Otago in New Zealand

Embalming fixatives such as formaldehyde and phenol have been associated with occupational health hazards. While anatomists aim at replacing these chemicals, this seems presently unfeasible in particular for formaldehyde. Furthermore, fixation protocols usually require well-equipped facilities with highly experienced staff to achieve good fixation results in spite of only a minimal use of formaldehyde. Combining these aspects, a technique robust enough to be carried out by morticians is presented, resulting in durable tissues with minimal formaldehyde use. An embalming protocol involving phenoxyethanol was established, using concentrations of 7 and 1.5 Vol% of phenoxyethanol in the fixative and the conservation fluid, respectively. Visual, haptic, histological, and biomechanical properties and their perceived potential to positively influence student learning outcomes were compared to standard embalming techniques. The phenoxyethanol technique provides esthetic, durable, and odorless tissues. Bleaching is less pronounced compared to ethanol- or formaldehyde-based protocols. The tissues remain pliable following the phenoxyethanol-based embalming and can be used for biomechanical experiments to some extent. Phenoxyethanol-fixed tissues are well suited for undergraduate teaching with perceived positive learning outcomes and partly for postgraduate training. Phenoxyethanol tissues provide the option to obtain well-preserved histology samples, similar to those derived from formaldehyde. The provided protocol helps replace the use of phenol and formaldehyde for conservation purposes and minimizes the use of formaldehyde for the initial injection fixation. Phenoxyethanol-based embalming forms an effective alternative to standard embalming techniques for human cadavers. It is simple to use, allowing fixation procedures to be carried out in less sophisticated facilities with non-anatomy staff.

Formaldehyde Release From Personal Care Products: Chromotropic Acid Method Analysis

BACKGROUND

Preservatives such as formaldehyde and formaldehyde releasers (F/FRs) are found in personal care products. Studies from Europe and Israel have indicated that products with undeclared F/FRs on product labels may have detectable levels of formaldehyde.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to determine the presence of formaldehyde in samples of US personal care products.

METHODS

Fifty-four baby and adult products were tested with the chromotropic acid method. A blinded investigator graded the color change as mild, moderate, or strong.

RESULTS

All 8 products declaring F/FRs resulted in a deep purple color change, indicating a strong reaction. Of the 46 products with undeclared F/FRs, 4 (8.6%) were found to release formaldehyde. All 4 resulted in a light purple color change, indicating a mild reaction.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, 4 of 54 products (7.4%) had label information, which did not match chromotropic acid method testing results. Clinicians and formaldehyde-allergic individuals should be aware of the limitations of product ingredient labeling in managing allergic contact dermatitis to formaldehyde.

Methylchloroisothiazolinone and/or methylisothiazolinone in cosmetic products-A market survey

BACKGROUND

There was a global epidemic of methylchloroisothiazolinone (MCI) and/or methylisothiazolinone (MI) contact allergy from 2009 to 2015. In response, the Thai Ministry of Public Health regulated the use of MCI/MI in cosmetics.

OBJECTIVE

To survey the presence of MCI/MI and MI alone, as labelled on cosmetics sold on the Thai market, before and after the ministerial directive.

METHODS

The presence of MCI and/or MI in leave-on and rinse-off cosmetics sold on the market, based on the labelling of ingredients in 3445 products, was analysed.

RESULTS

Before the implementation date, most leave-on products contained MCI/MI. After the regulations came into force, the only leave-on cosmetic subcategories that complied with the law were facial skin-care, sunscreen and make-up products. MCI/MI and MI alone were found on the labels of both leave-on and rinse-off products, the presence of each varying between product subcategories.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the ministerial regulations restricting their use, MCI and/or MI are still found in cosmetics sold on the Thai market. Dermatologists should be aware of this situation, and counsel patients to avoid products containing MCI and/or MI.

Isothiazolinone derivatives and allergic contact dermatitis: a review and update

Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) from isothiazolinones has frequently been described in the literature. Following an epidemic of sensitization to methylchloroisothiazolinone/methylisothiazolinone (MCI/MI) in the 1980s, and more recently to MI, the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety of the European Commission banned their use in leave-on products, while restricting that in rinse-off cosmetics. Despite a decreasing prevalence of ACD from MCI/MI and MI, cases caused by occupational exposure and non-cosmetic isothiazolinone sources are on the rise. Moreover, sensitization to newer and lesser known isothiazolinones has been reported. This paper reviews the epidemiology of contact allergy to different isothiazolinones, clinical presentation of isothiazolinone-induced ACD, most relevant sensitization sources and potential cross-reactions between isothiazolinone derivatives. It also provides an update on recent legislative measures.

Quantification of l-carvone in toothpastes available on the Swedish market

BACKGROUND

Toothpastes have widespread use in the population, and contain flavours to give a pleasant and often minty aroma. Flavours are prevalent allergens in toothpastes, and adverse reactions often present as perioral dermatitis or stomatitis. l-Carvone, a mint flavour found in spearmint oil, is one of these allergens. There are few studies on contact allergy to l-carvone, and some of them have indicated a positive relationship with oral lichenoid lesions.

OBJECTIVES

To qualitatively and quantitatively investigate the presence of l-carvone in commercially available toothpastes on the Swedish market.

METHODS

l-Carvone in 66 toothpastes was analysed with straight-phase high-performance liquid chromatography. The product labels were studied with regard to limonene.

RESULTS

l-Carvone was found in 64 of 66 toothpastes (concentration: 0.00005-0.35%). In 10 of these, the concentration exceeded 0.1%. Higher concentrations of l-carvone were found if limonene was listed on the label.

CONCLUSION

The majority of toothpastes on the Swedish market contain l-carvone, but the concentration hardly relates to the advertised flavour or labelled ingredients. It is hitherto unknown whether the found concentrations are sufficient for induction of contact allergy in individuals with healthy oral mucosa or in those with oral lichenoid lesions or other mucosal disease.

Cosmetic preservative labelling on the Thai market

BACKGROUND

Preservatives are added to cosmetics and other consumer products to prevent microbial growth and product degradation. Many cosmetic preservatives are skin sensitizers and frequent causes of contact dermatitis. The use of preservatives may vary by country and/or region, according to legislation, and may be reflected in differences in the prevalence rates of preservative allergy worldwide.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the type and frequency of preservative use in cosmetics sold in Thai markets in metropolitan Bangkok, Thailand.

METHODS

Preservatives contained in 1000 different cosmetics sold in Thai markets were documented and analysed, based on the labelling of ingredients.

RESULTS

Most of the cosmetic and skincare products sold in Thai markets were international brands, with only a small proportion of cosmetic products being produced in Thailand. International brand cosmetics were more likely to contain non-formaldehyde-releasing preservatives than domestically produced brands. Isothiazolinone-based preservatives, which are responsible for the current increase in the prevalence of contact allergy, were found at a significant frequency in domestically produced, leave-on cosmetic products.

CONCLUSION

Preservatives in cosmetics were significantly different according to source of production and type of cosmetics.