Poster presentation, P96

Official XXIst International Pigment Cell Conference website - 21-24 Sept 2011, Bordeaux - France | updated: September 04 2011

Study of pigmented cosmetic dermatitis

BACKGROUND: Pigmented cosmetic dermatitis is a term proposed by Nakayama. It is a variant of pigmented contact dermatitis where cosmetics ingredients are the causative allergen and face is predominant site. Clinically, it is characterized by diffuse or patchy brown pigmentation on the face. Here, we present 56 cases with pigmentation on face. OBJECTIVES: To study the common allergens in cases of pigmented cosmetic dermatitis. METHODOLOGY: Patients with pigmentation and mild dermatitis on face were included. History of cosmetic use was present in all cases. Patients with severe dermatitis were excluded. Consent and detailed history was taken. Patients were patch tested with universal and cosmetic series and as is wherever possible. The readings were taken on day 2, 4, 7 according to ICDRG grading. RESULTS: 56 patients fulfilled the criteria. Females (n=38, 67.85%) outnumbered the males (n=18, 32.14%). The median age for males (38.83) & females (33.13) were same. The occupation of maximum people was homemaker. The duration of complaints ranged from 1 month to 15 years. The contact of cosmetics was in form of talcum powder, fair & lovely, kumkum, shaving cream, beauty creams, perfumes, hair dye. The face, cheek and forehead were maximally affected. The positive results were seen in 25 (44.64%). Female (n=18,72%) outnumbered males (n=7,28%). The most frequently affected age group was 20-40 years. The number of sensitization were 60, sensitization index was 2.4.The allergens were fragrance (16.66%), thiomersal (8.33%), emulsifiers (18.33%). CONCLUSION: In pigmented cosmetic dermatitis not only fragrances but emulsifiers and preservatives also play a role.

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