Coupled exposure to ingredients of cosmetic products: III. Ultraviolet filters.

Background: The use of cosmetics exposes consumers to mixtures of ingredients, many of which are potential allergens. Ultraviolet (UV) filters are used not just in sunscreens, but also in other products. Many UV filters are known contact allergens and photoallergens.

Coupled exposure to ingredients of cosmetic products: II. Preservatives.

Background: The use of cosmetics exposes consumers to mixtures of ingredients, many of which are potential allergens. Many cosmetics contain one or several preservatives, some being important contact allergens.

Objective: To examine the pattern of co-exposure to preservatives in different categories of cosmetics.

Coupled exposure to ingredients of cosmetic products: I. Fragrances.

Background: The use of cosmetics exposes consumers to mixtures of ingredients, many of which are contact allergens. Fragrances in particular are mostly used in combination; combinations of fragrances have been shown to enhance sensitization and elicitation.

Objective: To examine the pattern of co-exposure to fragrances in different categories of cosmetics, addressing the 26 fragrances that need to be identified on the label according to the Cosmetics Directive 76/768/EEC amended by 2003/15/EC.

Formaldehyde in hair straightening products: rapid ¹H NMR determination and risk assessment.

Despite official regulations, the illegal use of formaldehyde-containing or releasing hair straightening products has become a popular practice in Europe and high contents of formaldehyde in such products have been reported. In this study, a methodology utilizing (1)H NMR spectroscopy has been developed to measure the concentration of formaldehyde in hair straightening products. For sample preparation, a dilution and alkaline hydrolysis is required.

Risk of sensitization to preservatives estimated on the basis of patch test data and exposure, according to a sample of 3541 leave-on products.

Background: The risk of sensitization cannot be derived from the frequency of sensitization to allergens alone, but exposure should be considered.

Objective: To estimate the risk of sensitization to selected preservatives.

Methods: The occurrence of preservatives in 3541 leave-on products based on the labelling of the ingredients was documented.

Salivary acetaldehyde increase due to alcohol-containing mouthwash use: a risk factor for oral cancer.

Increasing evidence suggests that acetaldehyde, the first and genotoxic metabolite of ethanol, mediates the carcinogenicity of alcoholic beverages. Ethanol is also contained in a number of ready-to-use mouthwashes typically between 5 and 27% vol. An increased risk of oral cancer has been discussed for users of such mouthwashes; however, epidemiological evidence had remained inconclusive.