Contact depigmentation caused by an azo dye in alta

Abstract

Alta, a scarlet-red solution used by some Indian women as a cosmetic to colour their feet, was found to be associated with depigmentation at the site of application. Chromatographic and spectroscopic analysis of 3 brands of alta confirmed the presence of 2 dyes: Crocein Scarlet MOO (CSM) (brilliant crocein) and rhodamine B (tetraethyl rhodamine). Patch testing produced depigmentation at the site of application of alta, CSM and para-phenylenediamine (PPD). Although PPD has been reported to produce leukoderma, azo dyes have not previously been reported as depigmenting agents.

Staining of proteins on SDS polyacrylamide gels and on nitrocellulose membranes by Alta, a colour used as a cosmetic

“…The results indicated that the spectra of the peaks of Alta were identical to those of Rhodamine B (1.79 min) and those of Crocein scarlet (1.39 and 6.6 min) suggesting that Crocein scarlet and Rhodamine B are the constituents of Alta. Similar chemical composition of Alta has been reported earlier [7].…”

Chemical-Induced Vitiligo

“…The subject also developed a similar reaction to PPD, thought to be a well-known cross-reaction between the chemicals, as the alta contained no trace of PPD. All sites depigmented approximately 6 weeks after application of the patch tests, and repigmented after 6 months 36 . Some have reported that depigmentation occurred following direct exposure to dyes in leather products and other clothing when in close contact with the skin, such as shoes, wallets, and sandals 3, 37, 38 (Fig.…”

Effect of chemical exposure in induction and evolution of vitiligo: Correlation between duration of exposure and disease, site of exposure and onset, and impact upon avoidance

“…13 Chemical leucoderma, a disease of industrial origin, has subsequently also been seen to be induced by certain domestic consumer products. 14 The reported contributory chemicals in household objects are lip stick, mehendi (herbal hair color), amulet string color, eye liner, lip liner, 12 deodorant, detergent, cleanser, perfume, perfumed oil, herbal oil, insecticide, pesticides, rubber sandal, black socks/shoe, 13 hair dye, 15 alta, 16 adhesive bindi, 17 wrist watch leather belt, 18 tooth paste (gel, colored), 19 rubber condom. 20 …”