Cosmetology Allergies

People who work in the cosmetology field are exposed to a variety of potential allergens. From skin rashes to respiratory problems, the chemicals used in this field are extensive and varied. Sneezing, wheezing, itchy/watery eyes and skin eruptions can result from continued exposure to chemicals found in hairsprays, facial creams and other products commonly used in cosmetology. Hair dyes are a veritable witches brew of chemicals, but sometimes allergies can result from something as simple as latex gloves.

Hypo-Allergenic?

• Product labeling can be reassuring, but not necessarily accurate. Since there are no federal regulations on what constitutes "hypo-allergenic," it is at the discretion of the manufacturer which of their products will be labeled as such. Simply because a product does not contain perfumes or other known reactive products does not mean it is hypo-allergenic. Sensitivity to various chemicals or chemical compounds can vary from person-to-person, so labels such as "hypo-allergenic," "dermatologist tested," "non-irritating" or "safe for sensitive skin," may not be true. The product may have been tested by a doctor, but there are no scientific studies in support of these claims.

  There are chemicals in all cosmetic products from sunscreens to nail polishes, any of which can trigger allergic reactions. Ingredients found in perfumes, lipsticks, hair dyes, skin creams, eye shadows and eyeliners, or sunscreens, including the preservatives used in water-based cosmetics, can all lead to allergic reactions. Some cosmetics claiming to be all-natural or those that are supposedly to be formulated using plant extracts will contain certain amounts of preservatives, which can be a source of allergic reactions.

Alpha Hydroxy Acid

• You'll find AHA in a variety of products, particularly those products that are designed to exfoliate, smooth fine lines and wrinkles or to treat acne. It can also be found in products that are supposed to improve the general appearance of the skin (color balancing). Alpha Hydroxy Acid is added to products to change the pH balance of the skin by adjusting acidity and alkalinity. AHA can cause changes in skin pigment, dermatitis, irritation or tenderness, chemical burns, swelling, blisters or welts, itching and skin peeling.

Acetone

• Acetone is commonly found in nail polish remover and colognes but may also be present in dishwashing liquid. Inhaling the fumes from acetone can cause dizziness, slurring of speech, mouth and throat dryness, and some severe cases can cause coma. Acetone is a depressant of the central nervous system.

Coal Tar Derivatives

• You will find coal tar derivatives in dandruff shampoos but it may not be listed in the ingredients as such---you may find it listed as FDC or DF&C color. It can cause allergic reactions such as headaches, nosebleeds, coughing, rashes, burning sensations and cancer. In a 2001 study in California and published in the "Journal of Cancer" linked Coal Tar derivatives to the development of bladder cancer in women who used permanent hair dyes once monthly.

Latex Glove Allergies

• Natural latex gloves contain several chemicals along with corn starch to aid in putting the gloves on. It is not necessarily the latex that causes the body to respond, but rather the chemicals that cause the reaction, but repeated exposure could lead to a sensitivity to all latex products. Allergic reactions may display symptoms, such as hives, asthmatic attacks and usually occur within about 30 minutes after exposure.