Allergic contact dermatitis to plant extracts in patients with cosmetic dermatitis

Cosmetic contact allergy is commonly seen in patients undergoing patch test ing, with fragrance one of the most frequently implicated ingredients. Many cosmetics contain plant extracts either as a fragrance or for medicinal pr operties, With a vogue for natural products there is an increase in their u se. We have performed a prospective study over a 2-year period looking at t he prevalence of contact allergy to plants in patients diagnosed with cosme tic dermatitis. In addition, we have performed a review of the products of two popular cosmetic companies, examining product labelling and the prevale nce of use of plant extracts. We suggest that patients allergic to fragranc e be advised to avoid plant extracts, which are separately labelled, in the ir personal care products.