Contact Dermatitis Allergens: Top Ten Identified In Mayo Clinic Study

... A new Mayo Clinic study reveals the most common causes of allergic contact dermatitis, a skin inflammation resulting in swollen, reddened and itchy skin due to direct contact with an allergen. Topping the list were: * Nickel (nickel sulfate hexahydrate) -- metal frequently encountered in jewelry and clasps or buttons on clothing * Gold (gold sodium thiosulfate) -- precious metal often found in jewelry * Balsam of Peru (myroxylon pereirae) -- a fragrance used in perfumes and skin lotions, derived from tree resin * Thimerosal -- a mercury compound used in local antiseptics and in vaccines * Neomycin sulfate -- a topical antibiotic common in first aid creams and ointments, also found occasionally in cosmetics, deodorant, soap and pet food * Fragrance mix -- a group of the eight most common fragrance allergens found in foods, cosmetic products, insecticides, antiseptics, soaps, perfumes and dental products * Formaldehyde -- a preservative with multiple uses, e... click link for more info. ...