1. Allergen content of popular chemical hair relaxers: A product analysis.
- Author
-
Okeke CAV, Seltzer JA, De Guzman CB, Tran JH, Okoye GA, Byrd AS, and Wu PA
- Subjects
- Humans, Betaine analogs & derivatives, Betaine adverse effects, Betaine analysis, Tea Tree Oil adverse effects, Tea Tree Oil analysis, Perfume adverse effects, Perfume analysis, Propylene Glycol adverse effects, Propylene Glycol analysis, Female, Hair Preparations adverse effects, Hair Preparations chemistry, Allergens adverse effects, Allergens analysis, Dermatitis, Allergic Contact etiology
- Abstract
Background: Chemical hair relaxers are widely utilized by black women, yet little research exists on the allergens present in these products., Objective: This study aims to investigate allergen prevalence in the most popular chemical hair relaxers., Methods: We analysed 41 products from five major retailers, identifying allergens through ingredient lists and comparing them to the 2020 American Contact Dermatitis Group Core allergen series., Results: The most common contact allergens in chemical relaxers include propylene glycol, cetyl steryl alcohol, fragrance, D/L-a-tocopherol, tea tree oil and cocamidopropyl betaine., Conclusion: Understanding allergen exposure in products used by individuals with textured hair is needed for managing contact dermatitis in diverse populations. This analysis underscores the presence of potential allergens in hair relaxers, emphasizing the importance of dermatologists' awareness and patient scrutiny of ingredient lists., (© 2024 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF