Identification of the causes of an allergic reaction to a fragranced consumer product

Identification of substances in consumer products (more particularly fragrance allergens in cosmetics) that are responsible for cases of contact dermatitis is of key importance for the patient and also for industry so that appropriate risk management measures can be applied. This is best done by a close collaboration between the dermatologist, the manufacturer of the consumer (cosmetic) product and the fragrance supplier. This paper describes a recommended practice that has been successfully applied for many years to achieve this goal.