Sensitivity to sunscreens

Contact Dermatitis. 1987 Sep;17(3):159-62. doi: 10.1111/j.1600-0536.1987.tb02698.x.

Abstract

The patients sensitised to sunscreen agents who attended our Contact Dermatitis Clinic between February 1985 to March 1987 have been reviewed. 15 (5%) of 280 patients tested with sunscreens had positive reactions; 3 of them were allergic to more than one agent. The most frequent contact allergens were hydroxy methoxy methyl benzophenone (Mexenone) [6], followed by isopropyl dibenzoylmethane (Eusolex 8020/8021) [5], octyl dimethyl para-aminobenzoate (Escalol 507) [2], and one reaction each to butyl methoxy dibenzoylmethane (Parsol 1789), amyl dimethyl para-aminobenzoate (Escalol 506), and ethoxy ethyl-p-methoxy cinnamate (Givtan F). Positive photopatch tests were seen with isopropyl dibenzoylmethane, butyl methoxy dibenzoylmethane, para-aminobenzoate (PABA) and ethoxy ethyl-p-methoxy cinnamate, one reaction each.

MeSH terms

  • Benzoates / adverse effects
  • Chalcones*
  • Dermatitis, Contact / etiology*
  • Humans
  • Patch Tests
  • Photosensitivity Disorders / etiology*
  • Propiophenones
  • Sunscreening Agents / adverse effects*

Substances

  • Benzoates
  • Chalcones
  • Propiophenones
  • Sunscreening Agents
  • 4-isopropyldibenzoylmethane
  • avobenzone