Benzophenone allergy

What is a benzophenone?

Benzophenones are a group of aromatic ketones that have pharmaceutical and industrial applications. They have UVB and some UVA absorbing properties and act as optical filters to block damage UV rays They can be used in a sunscreen product to reduce skin damage and delay photodegradation or extend shelf life in toiletries and plastic surface coatings.

Because they commonly cause contact allergy dermatitis, benzophenones were declared contact Allergens of the year 2014 by the American Contact Dermatitis Society (ACDS).

Where is benzophenone found?

Pharmaceutical use

• Sunscreen
• Fragrance
• Soap and detergent bar
• Lipstick
• Nail polish
• Hair spray and hair dye
• Body and facial cleanser /cream/ /lotion
• Shampoo
• Anxiolytic and hypnotic medication.

Industrial use

• Paint, varnish and lacquer
• Pesticide
• Textile and plastic
• ink
• Adhesive and coating
• Optical fiber
• Printed circuit board

The four main benzophenone derivatives that have been widely used in sunscreens and cosmetics are listed below. They share similar chemical and physical properties. Benzophenone is often used in combination with other chemical absorbing sunscreens to boost and stabilize the final product.

• Benzophenone 3 (2-hydroxy-4-methoxyphenyl: oxybenzone)
• Benzophenone 4 (2-hydroxy-4-methoxy benzophenone-5-sulfonic acid: sulisobenzone)
• Benzophenone 8 (2,2-dihydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone: dioxybenzone)
• Benzophenone 10 (2-hydroxy-4-methoxy-4-methylbenzophenone: mexenone)

What are the reactions to benzophenone? allergy?

The first contact reaction to benzophenones in sunscreen products was first documented in 1972. Sensitivity to benzophenone produces classic allergic contact dermatitis, as well as photocontact dermatitis. In individuals allergic to benzophenone, products containing benzophenone or benzophenone derivatives may cause redness, swelling, itching, and fluid-filled blisters. Symptoms may appear immediately or several days later (delayed contact and photocontact dermatitis). In severe cases, anaphylaxis it can happen.

In addition to allergic reactions, concerns have been raised about the relative ease with which benzophenone is absorbed into the skin and may promote the generation of potentially harmful substances free radicals. Additionally, recent reports that oxybenzone has hormonal effects in animal studies have discouraged some people from using sunscreen products. However, these findings are not based on human studies and cannot be a reliable indicator of what happens in people. Benzophenones, including oxybenzone, combined with other sunscreen agents still provide excellent sun protection. The long-term use of these agents in sunscreens is unknown and additional research is warranted.

Am I allergic to benzophenone?

Benzophenone allergy is diagnosed by performing patch tests with 5% of benzophenone in Vaseline.

Treatment of allergy to benzophenone

People diagnosed with a benzophenone allergy should avoid exposure to products containing benzophenone. The treatment of benzophenone dermatitis is as for any acute dermatitis/eczema; this may include current corticosteroids and emollient.

What should I do to avoid a benzophenone allergy?

Read product labels and avoid products that contain benzophenone or any of its derivatives. Ask your pharmacist for advice and a suitable alternative. You dermatologist You may have more specific advice, especially if you are very sensitive.

Alternative names for benzophenone

• Diphenyl ketone
• Benzoylbenzene
• Phenyl ketone

More information

Formula: benzophenone – C₁₃H₁₀OR

CAS number: 119-61-9

Cross reactions: none listed

Appearance: white flakes or crystals with a rose smell

Sensitizer: benzophenone and its derivatives.

Patch Test: 5% or 10% Benzophenone in Vaseline