Risk of sensitization to fragrances estimated on the basis of patch test data and exposure, according to volume used and a sample of 5451 cosmetic products1. (4th March 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Schnuch, Axel; Uter, Wolfgang; Lessmann, Holger; Geier, Johannes
• Is Part Of: Flavour and fragrance journal. Volume 30:Number 3(2015)
• Page Start: 208
• Page End: 217
• Publication Date: 2015-03-04
• Subjects: fragrances -- contact allergy -- risk assessment -- clinical epidemiology; Flavor -- Periodicals; Odors -- Periodicals; Smell -- Periodicals; 668.54
• DOI: 10.1002/ffj.3241
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0882-5734

Abstract

Abstract: The risk of sensitization cannot be derived from the frequency of sensitization to allergens alone, as exposure also should be considered. The occurrence of 26 fragrances in 5451 products based on the labelling of the ingredients was documented. Use volumes were provided by the International Fragrance Association (IFRA). Frequency of sensitization to fragrances was analysed based on IVDK data from September 2007 to December 2009. As an estimate of sensitization risk, the sensitization exposure quotient (SEQ) was calculated as the quotient of the relative frequency of sensitization and the relative frequency of use/labelling. The SEQs (the risk) varied greatly, offering a ranking regarding risk of sensitization: oak moss, tree moss, farnesol, methyl 2‐octynoate (methyl heptine carbonate) and isoeugenol at the top of the list indicating a (very) high risk of sensitization, butylphenyl methylpropional (Lilial ®), hexyl cinnamal, citronellol, linalool and limonene at the bottom, indicating a (very) low risk of sensitization. Compounds with a high risk were found to be classified as potent allergens according to the LLNA. High frequencies of sensitization may be put into perspective by the frequent use of certain fragrances. Despite infrequent use, others (with higher potencies or too high use concentrations) may turn out to be associated with an increased risk. Hazard assessment should be supplemented by risk assessment. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Abstract : The risk of sensitization cannot be derived from the frequency of sensitization to allergens alone, as exposure should also be considered. High frequencies of sensitization may be put into perspective by the frequent use of certain fragrances. Despite infrequent use, others (with higher potencies or too high use concentrations) may turn out to be associated with an increased risk.