Contents of fragrance allergens in children's cosmetics and cosmetic-toys

Fragrances are one of the major causes of allergic contact dermatitis from use of cosmetics. The aim of the current study was to assess the possible e xposure of infants and children to fragrance allergens from cosmetic produc ts and "toy-cosmetics" 25 children's cosmetics or toy-cosmetic products wer e analysed by gas chromatography - mass spectrometry. Target substances wer e the fragrance allergens from the fragrance mix and 14 other fragrance sub stances, most of which have been described as contact allergens. The fragra nce mix ingredients were either not present in children's shampoos/shower g els and cream/lotions, or they were present in fairly low concentrations. I n hydro-alcoholic products, such as eau de parfum, eau de toilette, several ingredients of the fragrance mix were found: geraniol was present in 7/7 p roducts, hydroxycitronellal in 6/7 and isoeugenol in 2/7 products. Isoeugen ol was present in a maximum concentration of 0.07%. In one cosmetic-toy, ci nnamic alcohol was present at 3.7% which exceeds the current industry guide line for safe products by a factor of 5. In all types of products other fra grance allergens were frequently found. In conclusion, children are already exposed at an early age to well-known allergens, sometimes at concentratio ns which are considered to be unsafe. As contact allergy usually persists f or life, manufacturers of children's cosmetics should be aware of their spe cial responsibility and apply the highest possible safety standards.