Allergic Contact Dermatitis Patient Information - what you need to know

What is allergic contact dermatitis (ACD)?

ACD is a form of eczema/dermatitis caused by contact to an allergen. Allergens can be found in many products including skincare, make-up, sunscreen, hair-dye, personal care, household products. ACD can occur in anyone but is more common in those with eczema and certain professions (hairdressers, beauticians, cleaners, healthcare workers).

One can become allergic to an ingredient even if they have used it previously for years without issues. Once sensitised, the immune system continues to recognise the allergen and even low concentrations of the allergen within a product can cause ACD.

The allergen can be harmless to those who are not allergic to it. ACD occurs through skin exposure of the allergen, rather than through food.

What does ACD look like?

ACD generally affects the site of contact, but can sometimes spread to distant sites. Transmission of allergen exposure from fingers to eyelids and other sites can also occur.

The affected skin is typically red, itchy, swollen, dry, flaky or blistered.

How can I prevent ACD?

It is best to use products with as little allergens as possible, especially if your skin barrier (eczema, frequent wet work) is impaired and thereby at a higher risk of becoming sensitised and developing ACD.

CosMe App is an evidence-based tool developed by dermatologists to help highlight what are the potential allergens within products.

How can I diagnose ACD?

Diagnosis is challenging as ACD is a delayed hypersensitivity reaction, where the skin rash appears 48-72hours after exposure to the allergen. Avoidance can be difficult as even small amounts of the allergen can cause ACD.

Diagnosis can be made sometimes via thorough history including work, social, home exposures. Dermatologists can undertake patch-testing which can identify causative allergens.

You can use the CosMe App to find common allergens within your products. This might indicate the cause of your ACD, and avoidance of that ingredient can be trialed.

How can I treat ACD?

Recognition and avoidance of the allergen is crucial. With effective elimination for 2-4weeks, ACD generally resolves. Once the allergens are identified, it is crucial to carefully read the ingredient labels of products and avoid those with your allergens.

CosMe App shows you personalised recommendations based on your unique allergen profile.

CosMe App

CosMe is a "first of its kind" mobile app that is evidence-based and tailor-made by dermatologists for ACD. It provides a traffic light system for the allergenicity of ingredients in products, educational patient information and personalised recommendations based on each user's allergen profile.

Visit the CosMe website to get started